Daniela “Dany” Villarreal Vélez, lead guitarist and vocalist of the powerhouse trio The Warning, has rapidly become a commanding force in modern rock. Born in Monterrey, Mexico, on January 30, 2000, Dany discovered her passion for music at a young age. Alongside her sisters Paulina (drummer) and Alejandra (bassist), Dany co-founded The Warning in 2013. They rose to international fame with their viral 2014 cover of Metallica’s “Enter Sandman,” which showcased their extraordinary talent and set the stage for their meteoric rise.

A Journey from Viral Stardom to Rock Titans

Dany and her sisters quickly transitioned from online sensations to professional musicians, evolving into seasoned performers. The Warning’s debut EP, Escape the Mind (2015), displayed their immense potential, while full-length albums like XXI Century Blood (2017) and Queen of the Murder Scene (2018) solidified their position as rising stars in rock. Their latest album, Error (2022), brought even greater acclaim, with Dany’s powerful voice and electrifying guitar work anchoring the band’s bold, emotional sound.

Iconic Tracks: The Soul of The Warning

Dany’s contributions as guitarist and vocalist shine in many of The Warning’s most celebrated tracks:

• “Choke” – A haunting, emotionally charged anthem that highlights Dany’s ability to blend searing guitar riffs with heartfelt vocals.
• “Evolve” – A high-energy track showcasing the band’s explosive stage presence and modern rock edge.
• “Survive” – A track that underscores Dany’s versatility, weaving melodic guitar lines with commanding vocal delivery.
• “Z” – A powerful piece that balances hard-hitting riffs with accessible complexity.
• “Martirio” – Sung in Spanish, this track connects deeply with their roots, delivering a mix of cultural pride and raw emotion.

Gear and Technique: A Rocker’s Arsenal

Dany’s guitar style is a masterclass in precision, emotion, and raw power. Her instrument of choice is a PRS Custom 24, which she pairs with an array of pedals to craft the dynamic tones central to The Warning’s sound. Her playing blends crunchy, hard-rock riffs with intricate lead work, creating a solid foundation for the band’s complex arrangements. Her commanding voice adds intensity, effortlessly transitioning from melodic verses to fiery choruses, reflecting her deep emotional connection to the music.

Inspiration and Influence

Dany draws inspiration from rock icons like Metallica, Muse, and Foo Fighters, blending their influences into The Warning’s distinctive sound. As a guitarist and vocalist, she channels the energy of her idols while carving out her own unique voice. A role model for aspiring musicians, especially women, Dany is breaking barriers and proving that passion and dedication can thrive in a traditionally male-dominated genre.

The Ever-Growing Legacy

Daniela Villarreal continues to lead The Warning, inspiring a new generation of rock fans worldwide. Her innovative guitar work, commanding stage presence, and dedication to her craft have made her a prominent figure in modern rock. With each performance and release, Dany solidifies The Warning’s place as a defining force in the future of rock music.

10 Facts About Daniela “Dany” Villarreal Vélez

1. Early Start: Began playing guitar at age 7, inspired by her family’s love for music.
2. YouTube Breakthrough: Gained fame with The Warning’s viral cover of Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” in 2014.
3. Family Band: Co-founded The Warning with her sisters Paulina and Alejandra in 2013.
4. First EP: Released Escape the Mind in 2015, marking their debut as recording artists.
5. Language Crossover: Performs in both English and Spanish, reflecting the band’s bicultural identity.
6. Signature Sound: Known for blending hard-hitting riffs with emotional depth in her guitar work.
7. Live Performances: The Warning has toured with major acts and performed at iconic venues worldwide.
8. Advocate for Women in Rock: Dany is a trailblazer for women in a traditionally male-dominated genre.
9. Creative Visionary: Contributed to the thematic storytelling in albums like Queen of the Murder Scene.
10. Chart Success: Their album Error debuted on Billboard’s rock charts, cementing their global impact.