Dani Mocanu

Name: Dani Mocanu
Date of Birth: September 3, 1992
City: Bradu
Country: Romania
Genre: Manele, Rap, Trap, Lăutărească
Band/Group Members: Solo artist
Roles: Singer, songwriter

Bio:
Born on September 3, 1992, in the small commune of Bradu, Romania, Dani Mocanu is a firebrand in the world of manele, a genre that’s the heartbeat of Romanian street culture. A former junior footballer for FC Argeș Pitești and FCSB, he traded the pitch for the mic, encouraged by his high school music teacher, Maria Cosmescu. His music blends the soulful wail of manele with the raw edge of rap and trap, and a touch of traditional lăutărească fiddle vibes. Songs like “Curwa” and “Buze Pline” are gritty anthems, their lyrics diving into themes of rebellion, faith, and life’s hard edges—reflecting the struggles and dreams of Romania’s working class. With over 537,000 monthly Spotify listeners and a massive YouTube following, Dani’s raw storytelling has made him a polarizing yet magnetic figure. His 2021 retirement announcement shocked fans, but seven months later, he was back, dropping tracks that hit like a storm. Despite legal battles and controversies, from DIICOT charges to a viral lion video, Dani’s music remains a raw, unfiltered voice of Romania’s streets, resonating with fans who see their own lives in his verses.