Danny K is a multi-talented South African musician with a diverse range of accomplishments. Beyond his success as an artist, he is also recognized as an entrepreneur, actor, author, and producer. His journey to fame includes the hit single "Danny K Hurts So Bad," which played a pivotal role in establishing his prominence.
In addition to his musical achievements, Danny K is renowned for his philanthropic efforts. He is the founder of SHOUT, a South African crime-fighting charity. This demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the realm of music, contributing to social causes and addressing important issues within his community.
Early Life
Danny K, the accomplished South African musician, was born on September 8, 1977, in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa. His father, initially a door-to-door floor polish salesman, later became the first LG importer in South Africa. Unfortunately, Danny K's brother, Jarren, passed away in a tragic helicopter accident at the age of 23.
Growing up in a modest household, the family faced various living situations, including residing in a one-bedroomed flat. Danny K's mother is named Pam Koppel.
For his Matric, Danny K attended King David Linksfield. His academic journey continued at the University of Witwatersrand from 1996 to 2000, where he pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Political Science. Later, in 2010 to 2011, he furthered his education at Wits Business School, earning a postgraduate degree in Business Management. Following his studies, he entered the corporate world, working in an investment bank.
Career
Danny K faced a challenging start to his music career, submitting demos at the age of 17 and enduring seven years of rejection from major labels in South Africa. Despite the setbacks, a small independent label took a chance on him based on his demo for "Hurt So Bad," which became his first single and catapulted him to overnight success. Ladysmith Black Mambazo's British manager discovered Danny K's video and pitched him to a label in London, leading to a signing. However, the label dropped him just before the release of his international album.
Returning to South Africa, Danny K, along with his brother Jarren, established their own record label. Despite the challenges, Danny K has earned multiple SAMA nominations and won four times. His accolades include two consecutive Kids Choice Awards, two consecutive Crystal Awards (People's Choice Awards), and the YOU magazine Award for Best South African Musician. He was also recognized in Heat Magazine's Hot 100 for 2007 and voted as one of South Africa's trustworthy public personalities.
In addition to his successful music career, Danny K is an entrepreneur involved in various businesses such as J23 Entertainment, Masterpiece Capital, ROCKA Headphones, and KD Foods RSA. Notably, J23 was named as a tribute to his late brother Jarren, who passed away at the age of 23.
Personal Life
In 2012, Danny K tied the knot with Lisa Gundelfinger, the daughter of prominent South African divorce lawyer Billy Gundelfinger. The couple has two children together. Currently, the artist resides in South Africa, balancing his family life with his successful music career and entrepreneurial ventures.
Discography
Studio Albums
Danny K - 2000
J23 - 2003
Same Difference (with Mandoza) - 2005
This Is My Time - 2006
Across The Line - 2010
Good Look - 2013
Singles
Brown Eyes – 2013
Feels Good To Me – 2013
Lit - 2017
Things We Do – 2018
Awards
2007: SAMA - Best Pop Album of The Same Difference
2007: SAMA - Best Pop Album for This Is My Time
2006: Channel O - Best Collaboration (with Mandoza)
YOU magazine - Best SA Musician
S.A Style - Best Dressed Male
Kids' Choice Awards - Best South African Artist
Movies
Crazy Monkey Presents Straight Outta Benoni 2005
Bunny Chow 2006