Doja Cat broke down in tears last year after performing her Hot 100-topping song "Say So" on the Grammys stage in a futuristic,
dance-heavy performance. She explains, "That one moment started me off in a different way." "It was simply the anticipation and all the hard work and watching the concept come to life," she adds as an artist who has been toiling in the industry since 2013, making the unusual move from viral breakout to bona fide pop star in the process.
She was only getting started, as it turned out. Doja released her critically lauded third album, Planet Her, which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and launched two more Hot 100 top 10s with “Kiss Me More” featuring SZA and “Need To Know.” Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Billboard‘s 2022 Women in Music Powerhouse recipient has become one of the era’s biggest success stories, whether she’s showcasing her range by dominating multiple radio formats or putting her classic showmanship front and center at awards shows. “I love making music, but performing has blossomed into something that makes me just as happy,” she says. “I feel most powerful when I am fully in character onstage.”
What performers did you look to growing up?
It’s pretty obvious that I’m in love with everything Nicki Minaj has put out into the world. You have your Janets and your Beyoncés. I look at [other artists’] projects and performances and go, “Wow, I hope one day I get to that point.”
I only want to work with people I believe in and who inspire me and make me feel good. I really want to meet Tracee Ellis Ross — and at the same time, I’m terrified because, to me, she’s the boss at the end of the game of life that I’m living. Her and Maya Rudolph.
You’ve long showcased your own humor online and brought it to life while hosting the 2021 MTV Video Music Awards. Would you want to host Saturday Night Live?
I like the idea of doing that because I love, obviously, to tell jokes. But it’s a little nerve-racking because it’s something friends have suggested to me, [doing] stand-up or comedy. That would kind of be my first gig. Just the thought of that terrifies me a little bit.
You’re up for eight awards at this year’s Grammys, including three in the Big Four categories, and you’ll perform at Coachella in April. What else are you looking forward to in 2022?
How do you think about the achievements you've made in the last year?
When I'm reflecting on YouTube videos and seeing what I've done from a different viewpoint. "Oh, yeah?" said one of my friends. You're viewing videos of yourself, aren't you? "Are you having fun with your own stuff right now?" It was humorous, but it hurt a little, and now I feel a little narcissistic when I see my own stuff. I'm a little remorseful. But, whatever the case may be, you're watching your own existence.
What music does it need for you to feel strong?
SOPHIE's "Ponyboy"
