In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, few artists have carved a niche as distinct and compelling as Doechii. Born Jaylah Ji’mya Hickmon on August 14, 1998, in Tampa, Florida, Doechii’s journey from the church pews to the Grammy stage is a testament to her resilience, versatility, and unyielding authenticity.
Contents
Roots: A Harmonious Blend of Faith and Flow
Raised primarily by her mother, Celesia Moore, Doechii’s early life was steeped in spirituality and music. Moore’s involvement in the church introduced young Jaylah to gospel music, where she honed her vocal abilities and performance skills. Simultaneously, her father, rapper Snatcha Da Boss, provided a contrasting musical influence, exposing her to the rhythms and narratives of hip-hop. This duality of sacred and secular sounds laid the foundation for Doechii’s eclectic musical style.
Despite the challenges of being raised in a single-parent household alongside her twin sisters, Doechii’s mother ensured that creativity and expression were central to their upbringing. From dance and theater to music, the arts became an outlet for young Jaylah to navigate her world.
Doechii at the Fillmore Philadelphia (The Foundry) on October 14, 2024 as part of her “Alligator Bites Never Heal” tour.
The Birth of Doechii: From Diary Entries to Digital Stardom
In middle school, grappling with bullying and a desire for self-reinvention, Jaylah penned a new identity in her diary: “I am Doechii.” This alter ego embodied confidence, resilience, and a refusal to be marginalized. Embracing this persona, she began uploading music online, culminating in her breakout 2020 single, “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake,” which went viral on TikTok and showcased her dynamic range and lyrical prowess.
Her unique sound caught the attention of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) and Capitol Records, leading to her signing in 2022. She was becoming the first female rapper under TDE. Her 2023 single “What It Is (Block Boy)” achieved platinum status and secured a spot in the Billboard Hot 100, further solidifying her place in the music industry. In 2024 her mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal received critical acclaim, culminating in a historic win for Best Rap Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards. This achievement made her the third woman to win in this category, following Lauryn Hill and Cardi B.
Personal Identity and Representation
Identifying as a queer Black woman, Doechii emphasizes the importance of authenticity in her music. She believes her perspective brings necessary representation to the hip-hop genre, stating that her existence and storytelling contribute significantly to the cultural landscape.
Dear visitor, I hope you enjoy this article. Thank you to take time to check out my newest designs and creations.
The article continues:
Musical Style and Impact
Doechii’s music is a fusion of hip-hop, pop, and dance, characterized by her dynamic vocal delivery and introspective lyrics to create a sound that’s unmistakably hers. Her work often addresses themes such as identity, mental health, and societal expectations, resonating with a diverse audience. Critics have praised her for blending 90s hip-hop influences with contemporary sounds, creating a unique and authentic musical experience.
(©Photo Credit: Eric Johnson for Cosmopolitan Magazine)
Doechii’s “Anxiety Song”: A Raw Anthem for a Generation on the Edge
Doechii’s 2025 single “Anxiety” has become a cultural touchstone, blending personal vulnerability with viral appeal. Originally recorded in 2019, the track gained massive popularity after its re-release in March 2025, leading to a nomination for ‘Social Song of the Year’ at the American Music Awards.
“Anxiety” was first recorded by Doechii in 2019 and uploaded to her YouTube channel. The song samples Gotye and Kimbra’s 2011 hit “Somebody That I Used to Know,” adding a unique twist to the familiar melody. In early 2025, the track went viral on TikTok, prompting Doechii to re-record and officially release it on March 4, 2025, through Top Dawg Entertainment and Capitol Records.
Viral Success and Chart Performance
Following its re-release, “Anxiety” quickly climbed the charts, debuting at number 13 and peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. Internationally, it reached number one in countries like Australia, Switzerland, and New Zealand, and secured top ten positions in several others, including the UK, France, and Germany. (Wikipedia)
Speed-climbing … another point of view at Doechii’s Grammys set February 2025. (Photograph: Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
Visual Storytelling: Decoding Doechii’s Latest Music Videos
Doechii’s artistry extends beyond audio; her music videos are cinematic experiences that delve deep into themes of identity, mental health, and empowerment. Here’s an analysis of her five most recent visuals:
- “Anxiety” (2025) A haunting exploration of mental turmoil, “Anxiety” opens with a nod to Doechii’s original 2020 performance, creating a full-circle moment. Directed by James Mackel, the video features surreal imagery—a trick house, looping scenes, and symbolic figures—that mirror the cyclical nature of anxiety. Doechii’s twin sisters make a cameo, adding a personal touch to the narrative. The homage to Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know” adds layers of intertextuality, emphasizing themes of self-confrontation and growth.
- “Denial Is a River” (2024) This video employs fluid visuals and water motifs to symbolize the process of confronting and overcoming denial. Doechii’s choreography and emotive expressions guide viewers through a journey of self-acceptance and healing.
- “Nissan Altima” (2024) A tribute to her roots, “Nissan Altima” showcases Doechii cruising through her hometown, reflecting on her past and the road to success. The video’s raw aesthetic and candid moments offer an intimate glimpse into her personal narrative.
- “Booty Drop” (2023) A high-energy celebration of body positivity and liberation, this video features vibrant colors, dynamic dance sequences, and a carnival-like atmosphere. It’s a testament to Doechii’s ability to blend fun with empowerment.
On the Horizon: American Music Awards 2025
Doechii’s meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed. At the upcoming American Music Awards on May 26, 2025, she’s nominated for two categories: Favorite Female Hip-Hop Artist and Social Song of the Year for “Anxiety.”
While the competition is fierce, Doechii’s unique blend of authenticity, innovation, and cultural relevance positions her as a strong contender. Her nominations reflect not only her musical talent but also her impact on social discourse, particularly concerning mental health—a theme poignantly addressed in “Anxiety.”
The Swamp Princess Reigns
Doechii’s journey from a young girl in Tampa to a Grammy-winning artist and AMA nominee is a narrative of perseverance, creativity, and self-belief. By embracing her multifaceted identity and channeling her experiences into her art, she has redefined what it means to be a hip-hop artist in the modern era.
As she continues to break barriers and inspire audiences worldwide, one thing is clear: Doechii isn’t just rising—she’s soaring.
For a visual experience of Doechii’s artistry, watch the official music video for “ANXIETY (2025)” below:
Watch the official music video for “DENIAL AS A RIVER” (2024)” below:
Watch “DENIAL AS A RIVER” (Live from AT&T Block Party, April 2025):
Doechii Performs “NISSAN ALTIMA” Live at the Grammy Museum:
Doechii Performs “NISSAN ALTIMA” Live at TDE XMAS 2024:
Dear visitor, I hope you enjoy this article. Thank you to take time to check out my newest designs and creations.
The article continues:
Discography
- Mixtapes:
- Coven Music Session, Vol. 1 (2019)
- Oh the Places You’ll Go (2020)
- Alligator Bites Never Heal (2024) – This mixtape won Best Rap Album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards .(Wikipedia)
- Extended Plays (EPs):
- Bra-Less (2021)
- She / Her / Black Bitch (2022)
- Notable Singles:
- “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake” (2020)
- “Persuasive” featuring SZA (2022)
- “What It Is (Block Boy)” featuring Kodak Black (2023) – Her first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 .
- “Anxiety” (2025) – Debuted in the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaked in the Top 10 .(Wikipedia)
Doechii’s 2025 Tour Dates
Doechii is set to perform at several major festivals and venues in 2025:
- June 8 – WorldPride DC 2025, Washington, D.C., USA
Headlining the free Street Festival & Closing Concert. (WorldPride Washington, DC 2025) - June 25–29 – Glastonbury Festival, Pilton, UK
Scheduled to perform on the West Holts Stage. (The Sun) - July 3 – Ferropolis, Gräfenhainichen, Germany
Performing at the Melt Festival. (Songkick, The Sun) - July 4 – Roskilde Festival, Roskilde, Denmark
Part of the festival’s diverse lineup. (Bandsintown, Doechii) - August 1 – Osheaga Music and Arts Festival, Montréal, Canada
Performing on the first day of the festival. (Doechii) - August 2 – Lollapalooza, Chicago, IL, USA
Part of a lineup featuring major artists. (Bandsintown) - August 8–10 – Outside Lands Festival, San Francisco, CA, USA
Scheduled to perform during the festival dates. (Doechii) - August 21 – Rock en Seine Festival, Saint-Cloud, France
Joining a lineup of international artists. (Bandsintown, Wikipedia) - August 23 – All Points East, London, UK
Performing at Victoria Park. (Doechii) - August 24 – Forwards Festival, Bristol, UK
Part of the festival’s diverse musical offerings. (Doechii) - September 27 – All Things Go Festival, Forest Hills, NY, USA
Performing alongside artists like Noah Kahan and Clairo. (New York Post) - December 6 – Spilt Milk Festival, Ballarat, Australia
Co-headlining with Kendrick Lamar. (couriermail, news) - December 7 – Spilt Milk Festival, Perth, Australia
Continuing the Australian festival tour. - December 13 – Spilt Milk Festival, Canberra, Australia
Third stop in the Spilt Milk series. (Spotify) - December 14 – Spilt Milk Festival, Gold Coast, Australia
Final performance in the Spilt Milk tour.
For ticket information and the latest updates, you can visit Doechii’s official website: www.iamdoechii.com.(Doechii)
