Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dani Barker. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Dani , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

didn’t grow up in music, and I wasn’t raised on stages. In fact, I was halfway through my nursing degree when I made one of the most pivotal decisions of my life: I walked away from a stable career path and moved to Portland to pursue music—something I had never formally studied or performed before.

With no prior experience, I auditioned for the Jazz and Contemporary Music program at Portland State University. I didn’t know what would happen, but I knew I had something to say—and they saw that. I got in.

Within three months of starting music, I found myself front-lining a weekend of sold-out shows at Wilf’s in Union Station. The deep-end had become my home, and I haven’t looked back since.

Music didn’t feel like a choice. It felt like something that had been waiting for me. Every show, every rehearsal, every sleepless night crafting lyrics or arranging parts—it all confirms that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be. What started as a leap of faith has turned into a lifelong commitment to expression, connection, and sound.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

As an artist, I wear multiple hats—vocalist, songwriter, performer, and creative director. My work fuses jazz, soul, and contemporary R&B with emotionally honest lyricism. Beyond the music itself, I also direct and conceptualize visuals, live experiences, and content that help bring each song’s world to life. Whether I’m performing live, creating a concept video, or collaborating on a session, I aim to offer an experience that is raw, layered, and deeply human.

What sets me apart is that I didn’t come up through the traditional music pipeline. My late start in the industry forced me to develop a sharp instinct, fast adaptability, and a hunger to learn from every opportunity. I understand what it means to build something from scratch—and that authenticity is baked into everything I create.

I think one of the things I’m most proud of is how quickly I’ve grown in the industry while staying grounded in my vision. I’ve fronted shows, worked with incredible musicians, and earned respect in spaces I once felt like an outsider in. My story resonates with people because it reminds them that reinvention is possible—and that it’s never too late to follow what sets your soul on fire.

For clients, collaborators, and fans, I want them to know that my brand is built on honesty, boldness, and elevation. I create art that reflects truth—and I bring a relentless work ethic and a deep sense of purpose to every project I’m part of. Whether you’re booking me for a show, commissioning a vocal session, or just discovering my music, you’re stepping into something that’s been crafted with heart, grit, and intention.

This is a bit of a rough path for me but I’m clearing my mental set to continue on my journey.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One of the most defining parts of my journey—and a true test of my resilience—was moving to Portland completely alone. I had no family here, no safety net, and very little money. I left nursing school two years in and made the decision to pursue music, even though I had no formal background in it. That leap was scary enough—but doing it without a stable home, financial support, or community made it feel like I was building a dream on quicksand.

And still—I never let those challenges detour me. If anything, they gave my journey more meaning. They taught me how to be resourceful, how to advocate for myself, and how to keep creating even when the conditions weren’t ideal.

While, I’m proud of my resilience, I do not take it as a compliment… I wish to not be resilient but to one day exist in a space where I am not bouncing back from life’s hardships.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I NEED to make a full length project and tour it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @danidangerzone
• Youtube: @DaniDangerVevo

Image Credits

(missing one, will update)
Ashley Walters
Reed Ricker