DDG

Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., professionally known as DDG, is an American rapper, singer, YouTuber, and entrepreneur born on October 10, 1997, in Pontiac, Michigan. Known for his rise from viral YouTube creator to charting hip-hop artist, DDG blends online influence, musical success, and business savvy into one of the most versatile digital-era careers. He was valedictorian of his high school class and briefly attended Central Michigan University before dropping out to focus on content creation. His breakout hit, “Moonwalking in Calabasas,” went double platinum and marked his transition into the mainstream music scene.

Over the years, he’s launched multiple YouTube channels, founded his own record label (Zooted Music), and collaborated with artists like Blueface, Gunna, and Tory Lanez. With over 1 million monthly Spotify listeners, millions of subscribers across platforms, and a growing legacy as both a musician and creator, DDG continues to push creative boundaries in hip-hop, streaming, and digital entertainment.... Show More

Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., professionally known as DDG, is an American rapper, singer, YouTuber, and entrepreneur born on October 10, 1997, in Pontiac, Michigan. Known for his rise from viral YouTube creator to charting hip-hop artist, DDG blends online influence, musical success, and business savvy into one of the most versatile digital-era careers. He was valedictorian of his high school class and briefly attended Central Michigan University before dropping out to focus on content creation. His breakout hit, “Moonwalking in Calabasas,” went double platinum and marked his transition into the mainstream music scene.

Over the years, he’s launched multiple YouTube channels, founded his own record label (Zooted Music), and collaborated with artists like Blueface, Gunna, and Tory Lanez. With over 1 million monthly Spotify listeners, millions of subscribers across platforms, and a growing legacy as both a musician and creator, DDG continues to push creative boundaries in hip-hop, streaming, and digital entertainment.

Early Life and Education

DDG was raised in Pontiac, Michigan, and graduated from International Tech Academy as the class valedictorian. He later enrolled at Central Michigan University, but left after realizing he could make more money from YouTube than his retail job. His early interest in music was influenced by his father, who worked as an audio engineer.

Rise to Fame on YouTube

He began uploading to YouTube in 2014, focusing on comedy sketches, pranks, and lifestyle vlogs under the channel PontiacMadeDDG. His authentic personality and consistent content quickly attracted a large following, leading him to expand into multiple channels:

• PontiacMadeDDG VLOGS
• The DDG Family
• DDGMusic

His digital success allowed him to pivot toward music full-time while maintaining an active presence as a content creator.

Music Career Highlights

DDG released his debut EP Take Me Serious in 2018, showcasing a more polished sound and drawing industry attention. That same year, he signed with Epic Records and began releasing a steady stream of singles and albums:

• Valedictorian (2019) – featuring the emotional track “Arguments”
• It’s Not Me It’s You (2022) – featured hits like “Elon Musk” with Gunna
• Maybe It’s Me... (2023)
• Blame the Chat (2025) – developed live during a seven-day stream event

“Moonwalking in Calabasas” became his breakout, reaching #82 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning double platinum certification. Remixes featuring Blueface and YG helped widen its appeal. DDG was also named to the XXL Freshman Class in 2021.

Business Ventures and Streaming Innovation

Outside of music, DDG made headlines with ventures like:

• Zooted Music (founded 2020) – a label supporting new talent like Paidway T.O
• Boxing debut – won against Nate Wyatt in June 2021
• “Hit-A-Thon” livestream – involved fans in creating his 2025 album in real time
• Brand deals – earning up to $500,000 per year through sponsorships
• YouTube Revenue – once reported earning up to $400,000 per month

He even shot a music video inside a NASA zero-gravity simulator, becoming the first rapper to do so.

Streamer University and Content Crossover

A supporter of creator-led platforms, DDG joined Kai Cenat’s Streamer University project in 2025. He hosted a 24/7 Twitch livestream to promote rising talent and invested heavily in interactive content experiences. His creative crossover between music and streaming continues to set trends across both industries.

Personal Life

DDG’s personal life became widely publicized after his relationship with Halle Bailey (singer and actress) went public in 2022. The couple welcomed a son, Halo Saint Granberry, in December 2023. However, they separated in October 2024, and in May 2025, Bailey filed for a restraining order citing verbal and physical abuse, while seeking sole custody of their child. The legal proceedings are ongoing.

Despite public scrutiny, DDG remains focused on his career. He lives in Los Angeles, where he continues to produce music and content. His family—including his siblings DUB Bridge and Tee Tee, also YouTubers—remains part of his public identity.

DDG’s ability to evolve—from campus vlogger to a major voice in hip-hop—makes him a standout example of what creators can achieve across platforms. Whether it’s topping charts, running a label, or livestreaming for days on end, his reach and relevance continue to grow in 2025.