​"There is a Brazilian expression that says: 'A Baiana is not born, a Baiana debuts,' and a better one: 'What is it this Baiana has got?'"
Dany Maia, a true Baiana hailing from the vibrant state of Bahia in northeastern Brazil, embodies these words in every aspect of her musical journey. From her early debut in the music industry to her captivating performances on Australian stages, Dany brings the essence of her homeland and the soul of Brazilian rhythms to audiences far and wide.
Beginning her career at the age of 15, Dany Maia quickly found herself sharing the stage with renowned artists such as Margareth Menezes, Timbalada, and Carla Cristina. Not only a talented singer, but she also made her mark on the street dance scene in Salvador as one of the principal choreographers for the esteemed group "Bailando in Bando."
Dany's passion for dance was further nurtured through training with the finest instructors in Bahia. She immersed herself in jazz, contemporary, afro, and improvisation under the guidance of teachers like King, FUNCEB, Gilmar Sampaio, EBATECA, and Ballet Adalgisa Rollin. Percussive rhythms such as Samba, Samba-reggae, Afro, and Forró ignited Dany's spirit and led her to travel as a professional dancer across Brazil, Portugal, and Spain. However, it was her profound love for this music that ultimately inspired her to take the stage as a singer.
As a vocalist, Dany Maia started by performing at friends' gigs and gradually gained recognition as a solo artist in the vibrant nightlife of Salvador. Her promising career opened doors to lead bands during the renowned Carnivals of Sao Paulo, Salvador, and Porto Seguro. In 2004, she produced and released her first promo album, "Danielle Maia Ao Vivo," which featured four original tracks. In 2016, Dany released her single "Leve," an intimate and chillout song showcasing her smooth vocals and beautiful arrangements.
Dany Maia effortlessly weaves together percussive rhythms, classic Bossa Nova, and the catchy beats of Brazilian pop, creating a musical fusion that mirrors the cultural melting pot of her homeland. Her journey brought her to the multicultural city of Melbourne, Australia, where she found kindred spirits in the local artistic community and established collaborations that complemented her diverse body of work.
In Melbourne's dynamic music scene, Dany Maia has graced various stages, delivering infectious Brazilian Samba at Copacabana in Fitzroy, or delving into funky, jazzy, and bossa-inspired performances at venues like Bennetts Lane Jazz Club. Her magnetic presence has also captivated audiences at the Evelyn Hotel, Paris Cat Jazz Club, Open Studio, Victoria Market, Czech House, Eurotrash, Hi-Fi Bar, and prestigious festivals such as St Kilda Festival, Taste of Portugal, Johnston St Festival, and many more.
Dany Maia's music transcends borders, inviting listeners on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Brazilian sounds. With her extraordinary talent, infectious energy, and dedication to preserving her cultural heritage, Dany continues to enchant audiences, bringing the vibrant spirit of Bahia to stages around the world.
Follow Dany Maia's musical odyssey as she paints the world with the colors of Brazil and lets her voice soar, captivating hearts and igniting the love for Brazilian rhythms wherever she goes.