Birth Name: Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini
Born: October 21, 1995
Birthplace: Tarzana, Los Angeles, California, USA
Doja Cat was born to Deborah Sawyer, an American graphic designer of Jewish descent, and Dumisani Dlamini, a South African actor and dancer of Zulu heritage. Her parents had a brief relationship, and she was raised primarily by her mother. At the age of five, Doja Cat moved with her mother to Rye, New York, before returning to California at age eight. During her childhood, she lived at the Sai Anantam Ashram, a Hindu commune in Agoura Hills, California, led by Alice Coltrane.
This period exposed her to spiritual practices and influenced her artistic development.
Education and Early Interests
Doja Cat attended a performing arts high school, where she was encouraged by friends to explore her vocal talents. She began self-training in singing and creating music using GarageBand. By the age of 16, she dropped out of high school to focus on her music career, having already begun recording raps over existing beats on platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube.
Career Trajectory
Early Career and Breakthrough
Doja Cat’s early music gained attention on SoundCloud, where she posted songs like “So High.” Her breakthrough came with the release of the viral track “Mooo!” in 2018, a humorous and satirical song that garnered significant online attention. This success led to a recording contract with RCA Records.
Mainstream Success
In 2019, Doja Cat released her second studio album, Hot Pink, which featured the hit single “Say So.” The song became her first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit, aided by a remix featuring Nicki Minaj. The album’s success established her as a prominent figure in the music industry.
Her third album, Planet Her (2021), further solidified her status, debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and earning a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year. The album included successful singles like “Kiss Me More” featuring SZA, which won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance in 2022.
In 2023, Doja Cat released her fourth studio album, Scarlet, which marked a departure from her previous pop-oriented sound, embracing a more rap-focused style. The album’s singles, such as “Paint The Town Red” and “Agora Hills,” received positive reviews and commercial success.
The Scarlet Tour
To support Scarlet, Doja Cat embarked on The Scarlet Tour in late 2023. The tour, featuring supporting acts Ice Spice and Doechii, included 46 shows across Europe and North America, grossing over $40 million and attracting over 330,000 attendees.
Musical Style and Influences
Doja Cat’s music blends elements of hip-hop, pop, R&B, and electronic genres, characterized by her versatile vocal delivery and genre-blending production. She is known for her playful and satirical lyrics, often incorporating humor and internet culture references into her songs. Her influences include artists like Nicki Minaj, Missy Elliott, and Lil Wayne, reflecting her eclectic musical tastes and creative approach.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Doja Cat has received numerous accolades, including:
- Grammy Awards: Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “Kiss Me More” (2022)
- American Music Awards: Favorite R&B Album for Planet Her (2021)
- MTV Video Music Awards: Best Collaboration for “Kiss Me More” (2021)
- Billboard Music Awards: Top R&B Album for Planet Her (2022)
Personal Life and Public Image
Doja Cat is known for her dynamic public persona, frequently engaging with fans on social media platforms and embracing internet culture. Her candidness and bold statements have garnered both support and criticism. In 2024, she faced public scrutiny following a controversial incident in Paraguay, leading to a temporary withdrawal from social media.
Legacy and Impact
Doja Cat has established herself as a multifaceted artist, known for her innovative approach to music and her ability to seamlessly blend genres. Her work continues to influence contemporary music and pop culture, and she remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
