We are always inspired and amazed by the extraordinary lives of those within the Dia community. Our Style Tastemakers Series introduces you to those who are using their voice and their style to inspire others.

Singer. Songwriter. DJ and selector. Educator. All of these terms apply directly and perfectly to Terri "Diviniti" Smith. Born and raised in Detroit, Diviniti is a part of a scene that has been shaped by the city's musical rebirth through electronic innovation in the 80s. Her uplifting songs and angelic vocal style, infused with eloquent wordplay, are influenced by a diverse range of classic rock, jazz, R&B, and soul music.

In 2003, Diviniti teamed up with Pirahnahead, leading to a string of dance floor hits that were released on several renowned labels such as Mahogani Music and Reel People Music. She has also collaborated with some of the biggest names in electronic music including Louie Vega, Charles Webster, and Andy Compton. Her music has been featured on multiple compilations by renowned selectors and even earned her a Grammy nomination for her contribution to Louie Vega's album "Starring...XXVIII".

Diviniti is far more than a studio artist. Her live performances are just as captivating. She has performed at the Movement Festival in Detroit, the Winter Music Conference in Miami, and The Tokyo Crossover Jazz Festival as well as at clubs in Detroit, Chicago, and New York. Her international appeal has been reinforced by her live performances as well as record releases.

In May of 2023, Diviniti released her debut album, "In Due Time,” produced by multiple Grammy-nominee Josh Milan and released on his imprint, Honeycomb Music. She also self-published two accompanying books, a mindfulness coloring book and a guided journal, to further expand the listeners connection to the themes and ideas on the album.

Beyond her music career behind the pen and microphone, Diviniti has recently become a sought after DJ, selector, and playlist curator. She is also the founder of The Little Bit Project Group, Inc., a non profit organization which aims to spread positivity and inspiration through affirmation cards and Little Bit Radio, a monthly internet-based radio show hosted by Diviniti that features music of all genres and bits of motivation.

Additionally, Diviniti is an educator with more than 25 years of experience in the Detroit Public School Community District and holds a Bachelor of Science and Master's degree in Elementary Education from Wayne State University.

Whether on stage, in the studio, behind the turntables or in the classroom, Diviniti is a natural born teacher and a motivating force in the world of music and beyond.

Get to Know Diviniti

That’s almost a trick question for me since I consider myself to have multiple careers. Talk about living abundantly!

The highlight of my career as an artist so far has to be the release of my debut album, "In Due Time," in May. Like the title suggests, it was a labor of love that took a while to come to fruition, but I couldn't be more proud of the completed project.

As an educator, I'd say each time I see that light of understanding come on inside one of my students, it's an undeniable highlight for me. Every teacher loves to see the knowledge they have shared with their students take root, grow, and bear fruit. That’s what it is all about.

I absolutely LOVE Molly & Isadora, Lola Getts, and the 11 Honoré brands. There’s something in those collections for every side of my personal style. Jeans, leggings, dresses, and activewear for those casual days, to jumpsuits and gowns for attending a high-fashion event.

When I grab that pair of jeans that I know I’m comfortable wearing, they are almost guaranteed to be Molly & Is (as I call them). I also have several other dresses, blouses, and other pieces from Molly & Isadora that are staples in my wardrobe.

When it comes to working out or even something comfortable and sporty for running errands, my go-to is Lola Getts. Their activewear is perfect for every day of the week.

I’m also appreciating the elevated silhouettes and couture edge of the 11 Honoré imprint. I have a few different items from 11 Honoré, but the one that made me love them forever was The LaRita Jumpsuit that I wore for my album listening party. With its stunning color, flattering fit, and thoughtful details, the outfit was talked about ALMOST as much as the music!

My style is very flexible, so it’s tough to select just one outfit that does it for me. I have been most comfortable in very casual attire, but as I am expanding and elevating my perspectives, both personally and as a brand, I'm bringing my style along with me. I've also lost a significant amount of weight over the last few years—more than one hundred pounds, actually. So, I’m ready to be seen when it comes to fashion, just as I am ready to be heard as an artist.

I’m tapping into outfits that make me feel powerful and empowered with a full serving of confident femininity. Jumpsuits, dresses—even shorts and rompers—with flirty, feminine, and flowing lines. I’m looking forward to outfits that support and inspire all of those feelings and states of being.

I released two books in conjunction with my album. “Laughter, Love, and Levity: Mindfulness Coloring Pages with Lyrics from the Album, ‘In Due Time’" is a coloring book with lyrics and affirmations from the album, mandalas and other coloring patterns. The other is “In Due Time: A Guided Journal for Reflection and Personal Growth” contains an essay and journal prompts that explore the themes and meaning of each song on the album. 

I have been an elementary school teacher for more than 25 years.

I have been recording and releasing music for about 20 years but “In Due Time” is my first album. 

Keep in touch with Diviniti on Instagram @diviniti, Twitter @divinitidivine, Facebook @divinitisings and at www.thisisdiviniti.com. You can buy or stream her album at https://songwhip.com/diviniti/in-due-time.

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