G. K. Ventakesh was one of the most sought-after music composers of Kannada film industry during the 1960-1980s. He had occasionally composed music for Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu movies. His association with the Kannada superstar Rajkumar was one of the most celebrated partnerships in the industry, together they have worked in 51 films. Rajkumar`s first song as a singer was composed by GKV. He was the first to introduce the western orchestration in Kannada film industry, which became a massive trend back then. GKV was also the mentor of ace music director Ilaiyaraaja. He has produced movies like Ranadheera Kantheerava (1960), Immadi Pulikeshi (1968), and Gramathu Minnal (1987).

Some of his notable albums are Chechi (1950), Sodari (1955), Dharma Vijaya (1959), Dashavathara (1960), Bhoodana (1962), Bangari (1963), Thumbida Koda (1964), Immadi Pulikeshi (1967), Jedara Bale (1968), Operation Jackpot Nalli C.I.D 999 (1969), Naguva Hoovu (1971), Bangarada Manushya (1972), Doorada Betta (1973), Bhootayyana Maga Ayyu (1974), Daari Tappida Maga (1975), Raja Nanna Raja (1976), Chakradhari (1977), Operation Diamond Racket (1978), Antha (1981), Eradu Nakshatragalu (1983), and Makkaliralavva Mane Thumba (1984). The maestro left for the heavenly abode on 13th November 1993.