If you haven’t been paying attention to Doechii, now’s the time to start. The Tampa-born rapper and singer has been making waves with her bold artistry, fearless visuals, and commanding live performances that demand your full attention. At 26, she's a genre-defying star on the rise, blending influences in a fresh, unapologetic way and entirely her own.

Doechii first made her mark with Yucky Blucky Fruitcake, the track that introduced the world to her unique voice and sharp storytelling. The song's viral TikTok moment in 2021 was just the beginning. What's followed since has been a masterclass in evolution. Her mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal, released in 2024, cemented her status as a true artist. It's a project full of emotional depth, quirky humour, and undeniable bangers, earning her three Grammy nominations, including Best Rap Album and Best New Artist.

But Doechii's impact goes far beyond the music itself. Her live performances are nothing short of breathtaking — literally. Whether on her NPR Tiny Desk concert or The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, she delivers her rapid-fire verses with jaw-dropping breath control and flow that never falters. Her ability to keep up intricate rhymes while performing complex choreography is a testament to her technical skill and dedication to the craft. Watching her live feels like witnessing an artist embodying the term, bringing the "art" back into "artist."

And then there are her music videos, which are as raw and unfiltered as her music. Each video offers a candid look into her creative mind, stripping back any artifice to focus on emotion, energy, and individuality. Whether she's prowling through the streets, commanding attention in an elaborate costume, or baring her soul, every frame feels like a direct reflection of her artistry. Doechii's visuals are a natural extension of her sound: bold, fearless, and undeniably authentic.

Regarding influences, Doechii draws inspiration from a kaleidoscope of artists and sounds. She's mentioned the theatricality of Lady Gaga, the creative fearlessness of Missy Elliott, and the genre-defying artistry of OutKast as key inspirations. These elements shine through in her work, from her boundary-pushing visuals to her ability to seamlessly blend rap, R&B, pop, and even alternative styles. Her upbringing in gospel music also plays a subtle but vital role in her vocal delivery and emotional depth.

And let's talk collaborations. Doechii's worked with Tyler, the Creator, on "Balloon," a playful, jazz rap track. She also teamed up with Kodak Black on What It Is (Block Boy), a certified hit blending shimmering pop hooks with gritty bars. And with SZA on Persuasive, showcasing her ability to blend genres including dance, house, and hip hop. 

What sets Doechii apart is her refusal to fit into any one box. Her work hints at old-school hip-hop, but she's so much more than a nostalgic throwback. She's a shape-shifter, seamlessly moving between genres, moods, and personas. Her music, performances, and visuals all combine to create a universe that feels entirely hers.

With a debut album on the horizon for 2025, Doechii is an artist in every sense of the word — a visionary who's redefining what it means to take the stage, own a moment, and push culture forward. If you haven't dived into her world yet, now's your chance. Doechii isn't just the future — she's the now.