Rex Orange County: The Bedroom Pop Prodigy

Rex Orange County is the stage name of Alexander O'Connor, a British singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his genre-blending sound that fuses indie pop, jazz, and hip-hop. Hailing from Grayshott, England, his major breakthrough came with the platinum-certified single "Loving Is Easy," featuring Benny Sings, which propelled his 2017 album "Apricot Princess" to widespread acclaim.

Early Career

Alexander O'Connor began making music under the moniker Rex Orange County while still a teenager, uploading early tracks to SoundCloud. His self-released 2015 debut project, "bcos u will never b free," showcased his raw talent for blending confessional lyrics with lo-fi production, catching the attention of the music industry and leading to an early collaboration with Tyler, The Creator.

Breakthrough

The artist's breakthrough arrived in 2017 with his second album, "Apricot Princess," initially self-released before being picked up by RCA Records. This album marked a significant evolution in his sound, featuring richer instrumentation and more polished songwriting, and it established Rex Orange County as a leading voice in the new wave of bedroom pop. The success of this record was solidified by his contributions to Tyler, The Creator's Grammy-winning album "Flower Boy," further expanding his audience.

Key Tracks

Loving Is Easy - This breezy, collaborative single featuring Benny Sings became his first major hit, earning a platinum certification in the UK and defining his sunnier, pop-oriented direction.

Best Friend - A standout track from "Apricot Princess," it exemplifies his skill at crafting emotionally resonant, piano-driven ballads with hip-hop-influenced cadences.

Pluto Projector - From his 2019 album "Pony," this sweeping, orchestral ballad highlights his growth as an arranger and a writer of grand, cinematic pop moments.

His 2019 major-label debut, "Pony," released via RCA Records, debuted at number three on the UK Albums Chart, demonstrating his commercial reach. The album's introspective themes and polished production were followed by his 2022 release, "Who Cares?," which continued his exploration of mental health and self-doubt over vibrant, often upbeat instrumentals. Throughout his career, Rex Orange County has maintained a distinct, personal approach to music, building a dedicated global fanbase drawn to his authentic lyricism and genre-fluid style.

Fans of Rex Orange County's intimate brand of indie pop might also enjoy the work of similar artists. beabadoobee shares a knack for blending nostalgic guitar tones with modern, diary-entry lyricism. still woozy crafts similarly smooth, off-kilter pop songs with a DIY sensibility. The jazz-inflected harmonies and relaxed delivery of Steve Lacy also resonate with Rex Orange County's musical approach.