Danny Brown

Danny Brown, born Daniel Dewan Sewell on March 16, 1981, in Detroit, Michigan, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his distinctive style and unique contributions to hip-hop. Brown’s career began with several mixtapes before he released his debut studio album, The Hybrid in 2010. His second album, XXX (2011), received widespread critical acclaim, earning him recognition as one of rap’s most unique figures. The album’s success led to him being named “Artist of the Year” by Spin and Metro Times.

Brown’s third studio album, Old (2013), was a commercial success, peaking at number 18 on the Billboard 200 and producing popular singles such as “Dip,” “25 Bucks,” and “Smokin & Drinkin.” He continued to receive critical acclaim with his subsequent albums, Atrocity Exhibition (2016) and U Know What I’m Sayin? (2019). In 2023, Brown released two more projects: a collaborative album with JPEGMAFIA titled Scaring the Hoes and his sixth studio album, Quaranta.

Born to young parents, with his father being a house DJ, Brown was exposed to a variety of music from a young age, which influenced his eclectic style. His childhood was marked by his parents’ efforts to keep him away from the dangers of Detroit’s streets, but by the age of 18, Brown had become involved in drug dealing, a lifestyle that led to several run-ins with the law. After serving time in jail in 2002, he decided to pursue a career in music seriously.

Brown initially gained attention as part of the Detroit hip-hop group Rese’vor Dogs, and later through his solo work. Despite early struggles, including an unsuccessful attempt to sign with Roc-A-Fella Records, Brown eventually found success with his unique voice and style. His breakthrough came with The Hybrid, where he debuted his now-famous high-pitched rapping voice.

In 2011, Brown signed with Fool’s Gold Records and released XXX, which solidified his place in the hip-hop world. The album was lauded for its mix of humor, inventiveness, and raw honesty. Following the success of XXX, Brown continued to build his career with a series of high-profile collaborations, tours, and media appearances, including being featured on XXL’s 2012 “Top 10 Freshmen list” and the cover of The Fader.

Brown’s music often reflects his experiences growing up in Detroit, his struggles with substance abuse, and his unique perspective on life, making him one of the most original voices in contemporary rap.