Music Industry News

Tāmaki Makaurau-based indie-pop delight Geoff Ong has today released his latest single ‘When it Gets Easy’.

‘When it Gets Easy’ delves into intimate reflections on the journey of growing up and unpacking big feelings. “As a kid I always assumed things would suddenly get simpler, that my emotions would get less difficult and my mental health would finally begin to thrive,” explains Geoff. “I’ve since realised that any progress means going through a deliberate, purposeful process, rather than just a sudden moment of effortless change. And I think that, slowly, it does get easier.”

Geoff’s knack for catchy pop hooks, paired with a driving beat and bright guitar licks, have built what he hopes will become an “upbeat and hopeful anthem for people who are also wondering when it gets easier.”

No stranger to exploring the complexities of mental health in his songwriting, Geoff is known for his soul-bearing and vulnerable lyrics, which have engaged listeners around the country (RNZ, ZM, The Edge). Made with the support of NZ On Air and teasing an evolving sound, Geoff says today’s release explores his “indie rock influences” which we can expect more of from his upcoming EP in late 2024.

The video for ‘When It Gets Easy’ – directed by long-time collaborator Lochana Wijesundera – depicts Geoff parting with “the emotional weight” tangled up with his hair. This happens in the most literal and palpable sense and serves as a powerful representation of dealing with big change, in real time: “We felt like it would be really impactful and meaningful if I had my close friends and family help with this – because having a good group of support around you is such a huge help when you’re processing heavy emotions,” says Geoff, who adds that filming the emotionally-charged clip was one of the favourite things he’s ever done.

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Photo credit: Hellie Coyne

A self-proclaimed “popstar for dorks”, Geoff Ong has spent the last four years cultivating a passionate fan base through a combination of online engagement, electric live performances, and his own brand of quirky pop songwriting. Recognition for Geoff’s art is catching like wildfire: with five songs from his 2020 debut album MAYBE IT’LL BE ALRIGHT placing in the Official NZ Music Charts Top 5, consistent radio airplay across Aotearoa, and a featured performance for the Exploding Rainbow Orchestra in 2023 – writing and performing alongside such musical legends as Hollie Fulbrook (Tiny Ruins), Don McGlashan, and Steph Brown (Lips). Much of Geoff’s mahi within the Aotearoa music industry weaves together with his advocacy for greater Asian representation and racial diversity in mainstream media, performing at Asian(SOUND)Scapes music festivals and serving as a mentor for Asians In Music NZ.