Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Destiny James. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Destiny, appreciate you joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Showcasing a talent that my family shunned while I was growing up has always been a challenge. Taking the risk of becoming a music artist was the biggest leap I’ve ever taken. There are days when I contemplate giving up and going to law school instead, to become a lawyer. Growing up, my family discouraged me from pursuing a music career, and looking back, I realize they were likely afraid of me failing. Ironically, it wasn’t until I began singing that I started to fear failure. I’ve always loved singing, but never in front of others. Once I accepted that I couldn’t escape this passion, I decided to take the risk and pursue it anyway. I created the artist name “Destini Xoda,” reflecting my identity as an exotic Black woman. I took this step knowing that my friends and family wouldn’t support me—and I took it alone. Although the risk hasn’t led to the success I imagined, it’s been well worth it. I feel alive, proud of myself, and like life is fun and worth living. I believe my story is just beginning, and it will be told.

Destiny, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a pop Caribbean artist from Brooklyn, New York, with roots in Grenada and Panama. While both cultures shape who I am, I identify more closely with my Grenadian heritage, as I frequently travel to Grenada. I look forward to visiting Panama one day to connect with my family there. My artist name is Destini Xoda. “Xoda” is a word I created, inspired by the idea of “exotic.” Through my artistry, my mission is to elevate and empower black women—especially those society often deems “bottom of the barrel”—by presenting us in our most confident and comfortable light. I want young black girls to look at me and see a reflection of themselves—standing tall, proud, and unapologetically beautiful. I believe black women deserve the freedom to express themselves creatively, without doubt or hesitation, knowing that our beauty lies in our skin and every part of who we are.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I was once signed to an artist development company, and at first, I was thrilled, believing I’d made it. They warned me about the industry’s challenges and emphasized the need for resilience. I embraced their advice, working hard to lose weight, cutting my hair to fit their vision, and sharing only approved content. Over time, I felt myself slipping away, losing my authentic self. After a year and a half, with no earnings and significant expenses, I ended my contract. Initially, I feared independence, lacking direction and guidance. However, during this period, I booked two of the biggest shows of my career, proving to myself that resilience and staying true to who I am lead to success.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

A valuable lesson I’ve unlearned is that not all guidance is beneficial. I once believed that those with more experience had all the answers and that I should follow their lead. I’ve since realized that, especially during times of indecision, trusting my intuition is often the wisest course of action.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/destinixoda
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/destinixoda
• Twitter: https://Twitter.com/destinixoda
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@destinixoda?si=nbpeO5n-Ax9Q2mGT
• Soundcloud: https://SoundCloud.com/destinixoda