Hazel O'Connor

Hazel Thereasa O’Connor is a British singer-songwriter and actress, born on 16 May 1954 in Coventry, England. She rose to prominence in the early 1980s with a string of hit singles including Eighth Day, D-Days, and Will You?, and gained widespread recognition for her starring role as Kate in the 1980 film Breaking Glass. She also composed and performed the film’s acclaimed soundtrack, which reached number five in the UK Albums Chart and earned Gold certification.

O’Connor’s background is rooted in a rich blend of working-class and artistic influences. The daughter of an Irish soldier from Galway who settled in England after the Second World War, she grew up in Coventry. Her early adult years were defined by travel and exploration – from selling handmade clothes in Amsterdam, picking grapes in France, and dancing in Tokyo, to singing for troops in Germany and journeying across West Africa and the Sahara. These formative experiences shaped her artistic voice and led her to pursue a career in music and acting.

Her breakout role in Breaking Glass not only showcased her dramatic talent but also her musical abilities, with original songs that resonated with audiences and critics alike. The success of the film and its soundtrack earned her a Variety Club of Great Britain Award for Best Film Actress and a nomination for Best Film Music.

Following Breaking Glass, O’Connor released several solo albums, including Sons and Lovers, Cover Plus, Smile, Private Wars, and Five in the Morning. Her music often explored themes of rebellion, resilience and personal transformation, and she collaborated with various artists across multiple genres throughout her career.

Beyond her music and screen work, O’Connor has had a notable presence in theatre, performing in productions such as One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (Manchester), Nightshoot (London), and The Cuchulain Cycle. In the late 1990s, she co-created and toured the autobiographical show Beyond Breaking Glass alongside harpist Cormac de Barra, which found success in Ireland, the UK, the Netherlands, Australia and Canada.

The 2000s marked a new phase in her career, with the release of A Singular Collection, a best-of compilation, and albums such as Hidden Heart, featuring collaborations with artists including Moya Brennan. O’Connor continued to perform live, including festival appearances and solo tours, and released acoustic and live recordings, solidifying her status as a dynamic live performer.

In 2009, she was honoured with a star on Coventry’s Walk of Fame, a recognition of her contribution to British music and culture.

Hazel O’Connor is also known for her personal integrity and independence, both creatively and politically. She has contributed to humanitarian projects, including environmental and peace initiatives, and has remained true to her values throughout her career.

She continues to divide her time between Ireland and France, and maintains a loyal following drawn to her distinctive voice, expressive songwriting, and compelling stage presence.

In January 2022, she suffered a serious medical emergency and has since been in recovery, receiving support and well-wishes from fans and peers around the world.