Navigating Risks to Reach Global Stages: The Story of Ms. Goh
Photo Credit: Singapore Global Network
For many, pursuing a career in music feels like a leap into the unknown. For Ms. Goh, a keyboardist from Singapore, it was a leap guided by determination, a commitment to growth, and an unwavering passion for music.
Today, Ms. Goh performs on some of the world’s biggest stages alongside artists like Conan Gray. But her path to these moments—whether playing for 50,000 at Lollapalooza or headlining Madison Square Garden—was far from straightforward.
A Journey Rooted in Compromise
Growing up in Singapore, music was a part of Ms. Goh’s life, but not the center of it. Like many children, she took classical piano lessons. However, her parents encouraged her to prioritize practicality over passion. They made a deal: complete a degree at the National University of Singapore (NUS) first, then explore music.
Ms. Goh honored their wishes, earning a sociology degree. Yet she remained immersed in music, performing with a pop-rock band at weddings, bars, and local events. The gigs brought her steady work and connections within Singapore’s tight-knit music community.
It wasn’t until a workplace accident left her cousin hospitalized in 2013 that Ms. Goh reevaluated her path. The fragility of life spurred her to chase dreams she had pushed aside. She enrolled in Los Angeles’ Musicians Institute in 2014 to study contemporary keyboard styles and took the leap into the global music scene.
Building Skills and Breaking Through in Los Angeles
Moving to Los Angeles wasn’t without challenges. Ms. Goh found herself practicing relentlessly, often eight to ten hours a day, to refine her skills. The transition from being known as a singer in Singapore to carving a niche as a keyboardist was demanding but rewarding.
Her diligence paid off. In 2018, she auditioned for Conan Gray’s band and secured a spot as their keyboardist. This marked the beginning of her touring career, which would take her to iconic venues like Radio City Music Hall, The Forum, and international festivals.
Ms. Goh emphasized the importance of consistency and growth. For her, success is about showing up, improving, and trusting the process, even when the outcome feels uncertain.
Performing at Global Stages
Over the years, Ms. Goh has shared stages with renowned artists and served as a musical director for acts like Faouzia. She describes each show, no matter the size, as meaningful. Whether at Coachella or on live TV shows like The Tonight Show, her focus remains on delivering an unforgettable experience for the audience.
Ms Renny Goh (back row, centre) during her first tour with American singer-songwriter Conan Gray (front). (Photo: Jr Gonzalez)
Her hard work and resilience were especially rewarding when she performed in Singapore with Conan Gray in 2023. Seeing her parents in the audience, proud of the career they once hesitated to support, was a full-circle moment.
Looking Ahead
Ms. Goh’s career continues to evolve. Beyond her role as a band member and musical director, she is focused on recording her original music and arranging shows that combine technical skill with creative storytelling.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Goh sees every challenge as part of the process that sharpened her resolve. She credits her late start with giving her a greater hunger to succeed.
Her story is a reminder that the path to a dream career doesn’t have to follow a straight line. For Ms. Goh, it was about trusting her instincts, honing her craft, and embracing opportunities when they arose—a blueprint for anyone looking to navigate their own creative risks.
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