Born on July 29, 1977, in White Plains, New York, Brian Joseph Burton, known professionally as Danger Mouse, grew up in a creative environment. His father was a school teacher, and his mother was a social worker, instilling in him a strong sense of social responsibility and a passion for education. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for music, honing his skills by experimenting with different instruments and sounds.
Burton attended the University of Georgia, where he studied music theory and production. It was during this time that he became involved in the club scene around Athens, Georgia, where he was exposed to a diverse range of musical styles and genres. Drawing inspiration from artists such as The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and Prince, Burton began to develop his own unique sound, blending elements of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music.
In 2004, Burton gained widespread recognition for his groundbreaking album "The Gray Album," which famously mashed up The Beatles' "White Album" with Jay-Z's "The Black Album." The project showcased his innovative approach to production and sampling, earning him critical acclaim and solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the music industry.
Burton's career continued to soar as he collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Norah Jones, Adele, and A$AP Rocky, co-writing hit songs and producing critically acclaimed albums. In 2006, he teamed up with Cee Lo Green to form the duo Gnarls Barkley, releasing the chart-topping single "Crazy" and albums such as "St. Elsewhere" and "The Odd Couple."
In 2009, Burton joined forces with James Mercer to create the indie rock duo Broken Bells, exploring new sonic territories and pushing the boundaries of traditional genre classifications. His passion for collaboration and experimentation has led him to work on various projects across different musical landscapes, cementing his status as a versatile and highly sought-after producer.
Throughout his career, Danger Mouse has consistently pushed the boundaries of music production, blurring the lines between genres and redefining what it means to be a modern-day producer. His innovative approach to sampling and sound manipulation has inspired a new generation of artists and producers, leaving an indelible mark on the industry as a whole.