Soulful Singer and Former Lawyer Danielle Ponder Finds Success Pursuing Her Passion
In December 2021, Danielle Ponder, a public defender from Rochester, New York, made a life-changing decision. Just a week before her 40th birthday, Ponder left her steady job to pursue a full-time career as a singer. After years of performing for small audiences on the weekends while juggling her legal career, Ponder finally achieved her dream of signing a record deal. Her debut album, “Some of Us Are Brave,” was released last fall to critical acclaim for its unique mix of R&B, soul, and trip-hop, all amplified by Ponder’s transcendent voice.
Since the release of her album, Ponder has been on an almost nonstop tour, performing at theaters, clubs, and music festivals across the United States and internationally. She recently garnered attention for her performance at Lollapalooza in Chicago, where a reviewer praised her “booming, saintly voice that could break through glass windows” and her inspiring backstory of perseverance. Ponder’s upcoming plans include the release of a deluxe version of her album, featuring live tracks and a new single titled “Roll the Credits.”
Ponder’s success is particularly remarkable considering her music deviates from mainstream radio-friendly dance-pop. Her songs delve into personal and introspective themes, reflecting her struggles with anxiety and romantic relationships. Despite this, Ponder has discovered the power of vulnerability and authenticity in empowering others through her music. She believes that writing songs about the parts of herself she’s not happy with can be just as impactful as anthemic empowerment songs.
The sixth of seven siblings, Ponder grew up surrounded by music and began singing at a young age. However, her passion for music always conflicted with her career choice. Ponder left her family band to attend law school at Northeastern University, inspired by her older brother Dwayne’s unjust prison sentence. As a public defender, Ponder handled numerous cases every day, fighting for justice for those who couldn’t afford to navigate the legal system. While she found fulfillment in this work, her true passion lay on the stage.
Ponder’s experiences with the criminal justice system and her firsthand knowledge of its inequities inspire some of her music. One song, “Poor Man’s Pain,” draws from her brother’s story and the case of Willie Simmons, a Black Army veteran who has spent over 40 years in prison for stealing $9. Ponder’s music has become a platform to address systemic injustices and engage audiences in conversations about racial biases in America’s legal system.
While Ponder may no longer be arguing in courtrooms, her fight for justice continues on the concert stage. Through her performances, she hopes to educate and raise awareness about the flaws within the system. Ponder believes that her ability to write music actually made her a more persuasive attorney, as it allowed her to connect with the emotions and experiences of her clients.
Ponder’s talent and powerful voice have caught the attention of music critics and industry professionals. She is recognized for her commanding stage presence, and her ability to effortlessly transition between delicate tenderness and thundering force in her singing. Despite not yet being a household name, cultural critic Nsenga Burton believes that Ponder’s talent is on par with superstars like Adele and Jennifer Hudson. Burton compares her musical journey to that of Tarriona Ball, the leader of Tank and the Bangas, who built a devoted audience through intimate performances.
As she embarks on her musical career, Ponder initially faced insecurities about entering the industry at an age when many pop stars have already found success. However, she has realized that her authenticity and vulnerability resonate with audiences. Ponder emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and following one’s internal compass, as those who resonate with her story will naturally gravitate toward her music.
Moving forward, Ponder intends to continue writing songs based on her personal experiences and survival through life’s messiness. She hopes that her music will not only bring joy and inspiration to listeners but also prompt conversations about social justice and systemic change.
Overall, Danielle Ponder’s inspiring journey showcases the power of pursuing one’s passion and the potential for music to serve as a catalyst for change. With her soulful voice and meaningful lyrics, she is sure to leave a lasting impact on the music industry and beyond.