Daniel Powter

Canadian pop singer and songwriter Daniel Powter gave the world a much-needed pick-me-up with his ubiquitous 2005 smash “Bad Day.” • Powter started playing the violin at a young age but switched to the piano at 10 after some bullies destroyed his instrument.

• Due to his struggles with dyslexia, he found it difficult to read sheet music while studying piano at university.

He dropped out at 20 and began writing songs and playing small clubs.