Charity: Monika’s Rescues

Deni Hines, born Dohnyale Sharon Hines on September 4, 1970 in Sydney, is a multi-award-nominated vocalist who grew up side-stage watching her mother, Marcia Hines, electrify audiences throughout the 1970s. She began performing at 15, singing backup for artists including Wa Wa Nee, Peter Blakeley, Jimmy Barnes, INXS, and Kylie Minogue on her 1991 Rhythm of Love tour.

Deni first came to national prominence as lead vocalist of The Rockmelons, delivering a string of Top 15 hits: “Ain’t No Sunshine” (#5 ARIA), “That Word (L.O.V.E.)” (#4), and “It’s Not Over” (#15). In 1992, she starred as Mary Magdalene in the revival of Jesus Christ Superstar before launching her solo career. Her debut single “It’s Alright” (1995) became a Platinum-selling Top 5 hit in Australia and won the ARIA Award for Breakthrough Artist – Single, also enjoying success in Japan and France. Her first album Imagination (1996) reached #15 ARIA and expanded her global audience, with follow-up single “I Like the Way” reaching #4 on the US Billboard Dance chart.

Relocating to the UK in 1997, Deni promoted the international release Pay Attention and toured with Lighthouse Family and Earth, Wind & Fire, performing at iconic venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and even for members of the Royal Family. She later released Remix Your Imagination, achieving particular success in Japan.

Returning to Australia, Deni continued to diversify creatively. Highlights include the jazz album The Other Woman with James Morrison (2007), an ARIA nominee that topped jazz charts, and co-writing “Bienvenue” with French hip-hop group IAM—featuring Beyoncé—the first Australian artist to do so. Her stage work includes Dusty: The Original Pop Diva (2005–06), earning a Helpmann Award nomination, alongside her independent release Water for Chocolate (2006).

On screen, she has appeared in Mao’s Last Dancer (2009) and Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, and has remained a favourite on reality TV via The Celebrity Apprentice Australia, The Masked Singer Australia (as Unicorn), and Dancing with the Stars: All Stars.

Deni is also a committed humanitarian, supporting Oasis Africa Australia, Lifeline, and Sydney Street Choir.

Her recent work includes The Soul Sessions (2016), a major success in Japan, and The Tokyo Sessions (2024), recorded with Ricky With FSP, showcasing soulful originals and reimagined classics. She continues to write, record, and perform internationally.

Deni’s chosen charity is Monika’s Rescues, an organisation that is dedicated to rehoming and saving as many pets as they can from council pounds. “I love all animals – especially dogs,” she explained.

Insta: @denihines1