danielle ponder

ABOUT this week’s guest:

Photo Credit: Faith Joyvon

It’s been four years since Danielle Ponder released her stunning debut album, Some Of Us Are Brave. When she came to SHEROES in 2022 I was awestruck and inspired by her undeniable talent as a songwriter, singer, and producer, and by her presence and ability to embody the compassion, strength, and extraordinary perseverance that she cultivated over decades of hard work as a public defender, while moonlighting as a musician. Born and raised in Rochester, New  York, the daughter of a pastor and one of eight siblings, Danielle grew up in a musical family where secular music was not allowed in the house. The reins finally loosened a bit in her teens, and at sixteen years old, two pivotal moments happened that would chart the course of her life: her father gifted Danielle her first guitar, and her brother was sent to prison. Writing music became a tool for healing and comfort, and her drive to become an activist took root. After years of juggling a successful career as a lawyer and her passion for music and touring, she took the leap to devote herself full time to music, and as you’ll hear her tell us today, she is more sure than ever that it was the best decision she ever made. We agree! When you hear her music there can be no doubt that she is doing what she was born to do. As we celebrate the arrival of her incredible sophomore album, Everything Has Changed, we are thrilled to welcome back Danielle Ponder as this week’s SHERO in the Spotlight.

CHECK OUT THIS WEEK’S SHEROES RADIO HOUR PLAYLIST ON QOBUZ: