DaniLeigh

Black Actors · Black Actors - Female · Black Actresses · Black Christmas Movies

Danielle Leigh Curiel, better known by her stage name DaniLeigh, is an American talent and star of the Black Christmas movie, Christmas Angel, her versatility spans singing, dancing, and choreography. Born on December 20, 1994, DaniLeigh started humbly as a backup dancer, sharing her interpretations of popular tracks on YouTube. Relocating to Los Angeles was a defining move for her, leading to choreography gigs and backup dancing spots for established acts. Her notable ascent in the industry began with her collaboration with the legendary artist Prince on his “Breakfast Can Wait” music video.

In 2017, DaniLeigh’s creative journey took a leap forward when she signed with Def Jam Records, heralding the release of mixtapes and catchy singles that showcased her distinct artistry.

DaniLeigh’s roots trace back to Miami, Florida, where she was born into a family of Dominican heritage. Music and rhythm coursed through her veins from a young age, with inspirations like Missy Elliott, Aaliyah, Drake, and Rihanna shaping her musical sensibilities. At 12, she embraced dancing, and by 14, she overcame her initial shyness to uncover her vocal talents. Before her breakout, she formed one half of the pop duo Curly Fryz with her sister.

In her personal life, DaniLeigh is the sister of rapper Brandon Bills. She shares a daughter named Velour with rapper DaBaby. In May 2023, she faced legal challenges after an alleged drunk driving incident resulted in a felony hit-and-run charge in Miami Beach.

Professionally, DaniLeigh’s big break came at 18 when Prince entrusted her with the direction of his “Breakfast Can Wait” video, a professional relationship that continued until his untimely death in 2016. Her early music includes the single “D.O.S.E” released in 2015, but it was the 2017 hit “Play” that put her on the map—an anthem of empowerment celebrating women and Latino culture.

Under Def Jam’s banner, she dropped her debut EP “Summer with Friends” in 2017, followed by “The Plan” in 2018, attracting collaborations with notable rappers such as YG, Lil Yachty, Lil Baby, and YBN Nahmir. Her single “Lil Bebe” found further success with a remix featuring Lil Baby, and “Easy” expanded her reach with a Chris Brown-assisted version. DaniLeigh also showcased her choreographic prowess in DaBaby’s viral “BOP on Broadway” video and made a cameo in Megan Thee Stallion’s “Hot Girl Summer.”

In 2021, DaniLeigh navigated controversy with an apology over her “Yellow Bone” song snippet, which met with criticism for perpetuating colorism, demonstrating her evolution not only as an artist but as a public figure conscious of her platform’s impact.