Producing pop music nowadays is tricky.  Some say it is merely rehashing old tunes, lyrics, and melodies with new beats.  None of the new renditions could ever top the oldies.  Some of the artists just make a big mess out of it all.  But generally speaking, producing music is about finding a way to tell your truth.  A story.  A heartbreak.  A new beginning.

Y&F recently caught up with pop singer Danni Penge, who explained her truths and the apparent madness and serenity behind a musical career. In addition to singing and songwriting, Danni also co-produces other up-and-coming artists’ pieces.

Y&F with Danni

www.dannipenge.com

What’s been going on lately in your life?
I have been living a life filled with music, poems, and reading. I work events in NYC whenever I can and continue to write my own songs. Music is a way of escaping from my own mind and it frees me from worry. I find myself in either a studio, Barnes & Noble, with family/friends, or writing song lyrics. I have a fun-filled 2010 ahead but I know that none of it would be possible without hard work and good people standing beside me.

What can we expect from your songs?
My songs are all very different from one another. My favorite song that I wrote would be “Stuck With Me” because the words I chose were things I constantly tell my friends. “Am I driving myself crazy thinking about the maybes”…The song sums up who I am and that it’s okay to be stuck with who I have become. Most people at times have doubted situations they are in. This song reminds me of that constant battle people face with being content with who they are. I also have songs that allow you to let loose, dance, and get you in the mood to enjoy a great night.

What do most people not know about recording an album?
That if you record with purpose your songs can go very far. When I record a song I usually do it in a darker environment if the song is sad, and if it is a dance song then I record in the light. Setting the mood for me is vital to the way I feel when I sing. I also think that many may not know how important it is to feel comfortable with the producer. Ck Kinchen produced most of my tracks. He is extremely talented and has worked with me… sitting there so I can add or remove something to make it more my own. He has written & produced hundreds of songs and has taught me so many things about recording an album. As of now, I have written all of my songs.

I see you are also involved in other singers’ albums. What are both the attractions and challenges you face when working behind the boards on something that’s not a Danni Penge record?
I love to help people in the industry whether it be with lyrics, ideas, or even just for words of support/motivation. I enjoy recording but I also think this industry needs more people who are team-related. I also like demoing songwriters’ songs to help them get that chance to shop their own music. Challenges? I am very blunt and honest. Sometimes I say things that people may not want to hear or like. It gets tricky but I choose to always stay true to what I believe in musically. If I don’t like a track, I will say it. If I love the track, I will jump up and down like it is Christmas morning and make the producer feel that it’s a hit!

Do you have conscious influences?
I am influenced by people who are musically driven, hardworking, talented, and have their own style. I grew up loving Mariah Carey for her voice. Then as the years went on I found a tremendous amount of respect for Pink. She is so badass and does whatever she wants. She is a great performer and is unique in her lyrics. She can sing pop, rock, or any genre thrown her way.

Tell me something nobody knows about you?
Well now they will know! Haha. I would have to go with—closet nerd. I wear glasses, read books, and love animals. My musical side is something that I use as a gateway from real life. It helps me express myself and walk into a world of adventure and spice. I grew up being in bands and orchestras and did not like to tell people. I was scared of who I was and now that I am older can not believe I hid things like that!

Is there anybody you’d like to work with in the future?
Mariah, Pink, Lauryn Hill, Alicia Keys, Neyo, Akon, Rascal Flatts, and Dr Dre.

Why should people seek out “Danni”?
I am a girl who just loves the arts. I adore making my own songs and can write things that people can relate to. I understand how humans work and think. I have the experience with lyrics to pull someone deep into the song. I really think that anything worthwhile takes a tremendous amount of dedication so I applaud anyone who is in the music industry. I will continue to write music for a very long time and hope to one day share it with the world. I am thankful to be born with this talent and will use it as best as I can.

Stay tuned: Y&F will be following Danni backstage on her upcoming NYC gig. Keep your eyes locked here!