Rising Stars: Meet Quinn O’Donnell of East

Today we’d like to introduce you to Quinn O’Donnell.

Hi Quinn, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
“Quinn O’Donnell” started as just me releasing songs to cope with my feelings and evolved into much more. In eighth grade, I wrote and released my first EP, titled “Mad Crazy Dreams,” about the evolution of my hopes and dreams as a young adult. I wanted to play shows, but because I was so young and had no experience, no one would book me. My parents are very supportive and suggested I play a show in our living room, thus beginning a regular series at home. Eventually, it became crowded, and that’s how I knew I was ready for a venue in town. When I was asked to play an arguably, career-changing show, I realized I needed a live band. I had known Jacob (lead guitar) since we were fourteen from summer camp, Cordell (bass) was his college roommate, Kennoniah (keyboard) was a good acquaintance that I had met at a couple of shows, and Nick (rhythm guitar) and Karl (drums) were my coworkers. Thus, after only two rehearsals, “Quinn O’Donnell and The Lonely Hearts” was born, and I found my musical family.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Growing up, I used to be a bit of a doormat because I was very awkward. I always did what people would tell me and made some terrible decisions because of it. I had never wanted to go to college, but because everyone in my school was going, I felt like I had to. I ended up resenting myself because of it and became very depressed. It took everything in me to finally put my foot down and decide that I would do whatever I wanted.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a musician and writer specializing in a particular blend of alternative rock (Death Cab For Cutie, The Cranberries) with atmospheric songwriting (Cigarettes After Sex, Phoebe Bridgers). Through my touring and local DIY shows, I hope to make my mark in venues across the Nashville area and beyond.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I think major risks allow us to move forward. Dropping out of school was the hardest, riskiest, and best decision ever. I had no idea what would happen to me, but I knew I wasn’t happy. Sometimes that’s all you need to evaluate your situation. It ended up being for the best, and I could finally mature and move forward because of it. By sharing my true feelings, I gained much support from my friends in the long run. At the end of the day, as long as you have people in your corner, everything will be okay.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.quinnodonnell.net/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moldyespresso/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAOzAZ5YaUgmiWN0VsPcyog

Image Credits
Nate Kochis @_natebradley_ on Instagram