Grammy-winning Rapper and Singer

Doja Cat | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : February 18, 2025

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Who is Doja Cat?

Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini on October 21, 1995, in Tarzana, Los Angeles, is a Grammy-winning rapper and pop singer renowned for her genre-defying music. Her creative journey began in her teenage years as she uploaded tracks to SoundCloud, which captured the attention of notable producer Dr. Luke. In 2014, she released her first EP, "Purrr!", followed by her debut album, "Amala", in 2018. It was her viral sensation "Mooo!" that catapulted her into the mainstream, paving the way for future successes like "Say So," "Kiss Me More," and "Paint The Town Red."

Raised in a culturally rich environment that spanned California and New York, Doja Cat's upbringing was influenced by her time spent in a Hindu commune, where she honed her artistic abilities. Her eclectic musical style combines elements of pop, rap, R&B, and soul, earning her numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy nominations. Over the years, she has collaborated with various high-profile artists, consistently reinventing her sound and aesthetic. With her unique blend of influences and innovative approach, Doja Cat continues to make waves in the music industry, captivating audiences worldwide and establishing herself as a dominant force in contemporary music.

Early Life and Education

Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini on October 21, 1995, in Tarzana, Los Angeles, experienced a childhood that significantly shaped her artistic identity. After her birth, her family moved to Rye, New York, where she spent the early years of her life before returning to California when she was five. A notable phase of her upbringing occurred between the ages of 8 to 12 when she lived in Sai Anantam Ashram, a Hindu commune in Santa Monica. This period fostered her passion for the arts, as she learned dance, particularly the Bharatanatyam style, though ultimately, she found the environment to be restrictive, longing for a more conventional childhood experience with greater freedom.

As a teenager, Doja Cat's creative endeavors flourished. She attended a performing arts high school and honed her musical talent during her formative years. Encouraged by friends, she began singing and producing her own music using GarageBand on a modest home setup. By 16, she dropped out of school to pursue her music career seriously, recording raps and experimenting with various genres. This unique blend of influences and experiences laid the groundwork for her distinct sound, which would later captivate audiences worldwide and lead her to viral fame.

Career Beginnings: How She Started Making Music

Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, began her music journey as a teenager in Southern California. Raised in a creative environment, she first showcased her musical talents while living in a Hindu commune, where she discovered her passion for songwriting. At just eight years old, she penned her first song for her mother, marking the beginning of her artistic expression. After relocating back to Tarzana, California, she attended a performing arts high school, where friends encouraged her to refine her singing skills and create music using GarageBand, further solidifying her dedication to a career in music.

By the time she was 16, Doja Cat had already dropped out of school to focus on her burgeoning music career. She started recording raps over beats she found on SoundCloud and YouTube, quickly attracting the attention of producers. Her unique blend of genres, including pop, rap, and R&B, caught the eye of producer Dr. Luke, who signed her to his Kemosabe Records label in 2013. This pivotal moment set the stage for her debut EP, "Purrr!", released in 2014, showcasing her early promise and establishing her presence in the music industry.

Mainstream Success and Achievements

Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, has made a significant impact on the music scene with her unparalleled blend of genres, including rap, pop, and R&B. After gaining initial attention with her 2018 viral sensation "Mooo!", she quickly transitioned to mainstream success with her second album, "Hot Pink", released in 2019. The album featured standout hits like "Say So," which became her first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, thanks in part to a popular remix featuring Nicki Minaj. This track not only showcased her catchy songwriting skills but also established her as a force within the music industry.

Following the success of "Hot Pink", Doja Cat continued to blossom with her third studio album, "Planet Her", which further solidified her status as a star. Released in June 2021, "Planet Her" reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and was lauded for its innovative sound and production. The lead single, "Kiss Me More," featuring SZA, earned critical acclaim and won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance in 2022. Doja Cat's unique artistry and lyricism have led her to accumulate a total of 19 Grammy nominations, a testament to her influence and the allure of her musical journey.

Latest Projects and Collaborations

Doja Cat, known for her genre-defying sound and unique artistic vision, continues to captivate audiences with her latest projects. Following the release of her critically acclaimed fourth album, "Scarlet", in September 2023, she has swiftly anticipated new collaborations and performances. The album features hit singles like "Paint The Town Red" and "Agora Hills," showcasing her ability to blend rap, pop, R&B, and even jazz elements. The ongoing success of "Scarlet" has solidified Doja Cat as a leading figure in the contemporary music scene, with reviews praising her innovative approach and lyrical depth.

In addition to her solo work, Doja Cat’s collaborations with prominent artists further highlight her versatility and creative flair. Her partnerships with industry heavyweights, such as the recently released collaboration "Masc" with Teezo Touchdown, and past works with SZA on the Grammy-winning track "Kiss Me More," demonstrate her ability to harmonize with various musical styles. Furthermore, her stage presence at major events like Coachella—where she headlined alongside artists such as Lana Del Rey and Tyler, The Creator—emphasizes her rising stardom and influence, establishing Doja Cat as a relentless force in music.

Personal Life: Dating and Relationships

Doja Cat, whose real name is Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, has generally kept her dating life under wraps, but rumors have surfaced linking her to comedian Jeffrey “J” Cyrus. The couple was first spotted together in New York City in November 2022. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar in August 2023, Doja shared her thoughts on love, revealing that she identifies as a “serial dater” but is currently in a committed relationship, emphasizing a deeper emotional connection than she has experienced in the past.

Before her relationship with Cyrus, Doja Cat was romantically associated with other artists, including singer Jawny and rapper French Montana. While she clarified that her connection with French Montana is primarily a close working relationship and friendship, her evolving sentiments towards love and commitment have become a focal point of her personal narrative. Through her evolving relationships and public persona, Doja Cat has cultivated a blend of personal and professional experiences that shape her artistry.

Net Worth and Earnings: How Much Does She Make?

Doja Cat has made a significant impact on the music industry since her rise to fame, and her net worth reflects her success. As of 2023, her estimated net worth is around $8 million, a figure that is likely to grow as she continues to release new music and tour. Her revenue streams include album sales, streaming royalties, and lucrative endorsement deals with various brands. Additionally, she earns substantial income from her live performances and festivals, such as her recent headlining at Coachella, which showcases her broad appeal and marketability.

In terms of earnings, Doja Cat has consistently ranked among the highest-paid musicians, particularly after the success of her chart-topping hits. It's reported that she can earn anywhere from $100,000 to $300,000 per performance, depending on the venue and event. Moreover, her collaborations with other artists and appearances in commercials add to her financial portfolio. As she remains active in the industry, fans can expect her earnings to continue to increase, given her remarkable ability to connect with audiences worldwide through innovative music and engaging performances.

FAQs

What is Doja Cat's real name?

Doja Cat's real name is Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini. She adopted the stage name "Doja Cat" inspired by a strain of marijuana and her love for cats.

When was Doja Cat born?

Doja Cat was born on October 21, 1995, in Los Angeles, California.

Where did Doja Cat grow up?

Doja Cat was raised in both Los Angeles, California, and Rye, New York. At a young age, she spent time living in a Hindu commune.

What are some of her most popular songs?

Some of Doja Cat's most popular songs include "Say So," "Kiss Me More" featuring SZA, and "Paint The Town Red."

What was her debut album?

Doja Cat's debut album, titled "Amala," was released in March 2018. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, it laid the groundwork for her future hits.

What are her musical influences?

Doja Cat's musical influences include a variety of genres and artists, such as TLC, Missy Elliott, Nicki Minaj, and indie rock music, showcasing her diverse sound.

Has Doja Cat won any awards?

Yes, Doja Cat won a Grammy Award in 2022 for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for her collaboration on "Kiss Me More" with SZA. Overall, she has received numerous nominations throughout her career.

What is her latest album?

Doja Cat's latest album is "Scarlet," released in September 2023, featuring singles such as "Paint The Town Red" and "Agora Hills."