Doja Cat Says Her First Two Albums Were “Cash-Grabs.” Here’s Why She’s Wrong.

Doja Cat is always the topic of discussion because of her ability to captivate the media with her infectious personality, dropping back-to-back bangers, and consistently serving looks. This time, it’s for her controversial view of her last two albums being “cash-grabs,” and that we all fell for it. But is that really the case? Of course not. Let’s take a deeper dive into why Planet Her and Hot Pink were not only necessary for hip-hop but for music in general.

First of all, Doja Cat’s music transcends genre boundaries. No debate is needed. She has taken rap music and merged it with fusions of pop, R&B, and soul, creating a unique sound that works. Her music is a literal case study of how artists don’t have to stick to one specific style or sound to connect with their fans. She also doesn’t fall into the trap of writing lyrics that are sexist or homophobic, like the majority of the hip-hop game is currently doing.

Doja’s 2021 album, “Planet Her,” was a game-changer for the music industry. The album is a mix of different sounds, all expertly woven together to create a cohesive body of work showcasing her versatility as an artist. The album opens with “Woman,” which celebrates the power and strength of being a woman. It’s an empowering anthem that sets the tone for the entire album. And it had the industry shook. Let’s not forget. She then flipped like a switch and took us on a journey through different genres with her tracks “Naked,” a sultry R&B number, and then “Payday” an energetic rap-heavy track featuring Young Thug. One of my personal favorites is “Options” featuring JID, a loop-worthy track.

And don’t even get me started on “Kiss Me More,” the GRAMMY-winning hit that featured SZA — another undeniable gem in music. The song always was recognized as the Collaboration of the Year, in 2021, by the American Music Awards.

But what makes “Planet Her” so important is Doja’s ability to push the boundaries of hip-hop and create something truly unique. Many people in the hip-hop game, fellow artists and music executives alike, love to pit rappers in a corner because of their own inability to evolve with the times so they want artists to sound like we’re still in 1990 performing for a local record store. Let’s not. “Rap isn’t the same anymore.” That’s correct. It’s been 50 years. What did you think was going to happen; an evolution deficit?

Take a look at the industry now. Rauw Alejandro, for example, has already amassed more than 30 awards in his career so far. Other artists have taken cues from the galactic-themed marketing approach of Planet Her, as well, crafting a captivating and fictitious world that allows fans to experience their music in an entirely unique way.

And yes, every successful album has a “big machine” push and loads of marketing, but it’s essential to note that hype doesn’t equate to artistic merit. We didn’t fall for a scheme; we fell in love with a true artist who isn’t afraid to experiment. She’s doing that now with her forthcoming album “First of All,” formerly named “Hellmouth.”

Doja Cat’s impact on the music industry extends beyond her music and marketable “cash-grabs.” In a time where the music industry often forces rappers to fit a certain mold or conform to dated roles, Doja Cat is a breath of fresh air.

Thank you, Doja Cat, for contributing to a space where artists can express themselves freely, and for creating music that listeners can delve into and feel free and confident. We cannot wait to be captivated by your next project, which will be made on your own terms.

Stream both of Doja Cat’s “cash grabs” below.

“First of All” up next.