Since the release of “Je Me Casse”, the song went on to surge to the top of the betting odds. In light of this success, Destiny’s management confirmed a worldwide deal with Sony Music. Following her first rehearsal on Sunday, her styling and staging attracted criticism in Malta and among Eurovision viewers. Both Destiny and her former X Factor Mentor Ira Losco have come out to defend the styling.
On Sunday, Destiny closed the second day of first rehearsals and revealed her staging for “Je Me Casse”, directed by Sasha Jean-Baptise, for the first time. In light of criticisms directed at the performance, Destiny has issued a short statement via her official channels to defend her styling.
Eurovision alum and Destiny’s mentor for X Factor Malta Ira Losco has publicly denounced the criticisms her mentee is receiving. In a passionate post, Ira contemned those who critiqued Destiny for her size, and specifically those using Destiny’s appearance and race in their comments about her and her performance.
We stand with all Eurovision artists who have faced online abused due to their identities, which unfortunately has been commonplace this year more than ever.
From JESC to ESC
Destiny Chukunyere won the Junior Eurovision Song Contest in 2015 with the song “Not My Soul“. She got record-breaking 185 points and brought the contest to Malta for the second time. In 2017 she took part in Britain’s Got Talent, but was eliminated in the semifinals.
Destiny appeared as the off-stage backing vocalist for Malta’s Michela at the Eurovision Song Contest 2019. The same year she auditioned for the second season of X Factor Malta, that was used as the country’s national selection. During the show, she was coached by Eurovision star Ira Losco and eventually won the contest. She was set to represent Malta at the Eurovision Song Contest 2020 with the song “All of My Love” before it was cancelled due the coronavirus pandemic.
This year the Maltese broadcaster TVM selected Destiny and “Je Me Casse” internally. Destiny will compete in the first semifinal of the contest on May 18th and is set to close the show in 16th.
Be sure to stay updated by following @ESCXTRA on Twitter, @escxtra on Instagram and liking our Facebook page for the latest updates! Also, be sure to follow us on Spotify and YouTube to see our reactions to the news in the run up to Rotterdam!
