For rising rap sensation Doechii, SZA's groundbreaking debut album, "Ctrl," wasn't just a collection of captivating songs; it was a catalyst for personal liberation and artistic blossoming. In a recent cover story for Cosmopolitan, the "Swamp Princess" candidly shared how the vulnerability and raw honesty of "Ctrl," which she encountered as an 18-year-old, empowered her to sever ties with an unsupportive ex-boyfriend who was stifling her creative spirit.
Reflecting on that pivotal period, Doechii explained the detrimental impact her then-partner had on her artistic expression. "I was dating a guy who just wasn’t very supportive of my music, and it really stifled me," she confessed. "I stopped writing because he was just like, ‘That’s not cool.’ I took his opinion way too seriously when really he just didn’t get it." This stifling environment threatened to extinguish the burgeoning talent that would later captivate the music world.
However, the universe, in the form of SZA's introspective masterpiece, intervened. "I remember listening to SZA’s 'Ctrl' for the first time, and it literally gave me the courage to break up with him," Doechii revealed, highlighting the profound impact of the album's emotional transparency. "I only bring that up because she inspired me to be vulnerable through my music in a way that I didn’t think I could be."
SZA's "Ctrl," released in 2017, resonated deeply with listeners through its unflinching exploration of love, heartbreak, self-doubt, and female identity. The album's willingness to embrace vulnerability and showcase the complexities of womanhood undoubtedly struck a chord with a young Doechii, providing her with a sonic blueprint for authentic self-expression.
Doechii's courageous decision to prioritize her artistic aspirations over a limiting relationship has undeniably paid off handsomely. Eight years after her transformative encounter with "Ctrl," she stands as a formidable force in the music industry. In February 2025, she etched her name in Grammy history by becoming the third woman to ever win best rap album for her breakthrough mixtape, "Alligator Bites Never Heal." This critically acclaimed project showcased her unique blend of fierce lyricism and genre-bending creativity.
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Adding another significant accolade to her burgeoning career, Doechii was crowned Billboard's 2025 Woman of the Year in March, a testament to her impactful artistry and rising influence. This recognition further solidifies her position as a vital voice in contemporary music.
Now in a fulfilling relationship with a woman, Doechii embraces her identity as a queer Black artist, recognizing the significance of her perspective within the hip-hop landscape. "My literal existence as a queer Black woman is a major contribution to the hip-hop genre," she proudly stated. "I’m speaking truthfully from a queer Black woman’s perspective, and being honest about my life through my lens is amazing. That perspective is being highlighted, and we need queer perspectives."
Doechii's admiration for SZA is evident, especially as both artists currently occupy prominent positions on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Doechii's first-ever top 10 hit, "Anxiety," sits impressively at No. 14 on the chart dated April 19, while SZA's collaboration with Kendrick Lamar on "Luther" continues its successful run at No. 1 for its eighth week. This shared success underscores the impact of both artists on the current musical landscape.
Beyond SZA, Doechii also expressed profound admiration for another iconic figure in music: Beyoncé. "I relate to her efforts as a businesswoman and her leadership," Doechii shared. "She is the embodiment of an eloquent leader. I look up to the way that she handles her job, her fame, and her fans. She is the ultimate showgirl and professional artist." This acknowledgment highlights Doechii's keen understanding of the multifaceted nature of artistic success, encompassing both creative output and strategic business acumen.
Doechii's journey, catalyzed by the empowering vulnerability of SZA's "Ctrl," serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring artists and individuals navigating personal and creative challenges. It underscores the transformative power of music and the importance of prioritizing self-expression and authentic relationships. Her story is a testament to the idea that embracing vulnerability can unlock one's true potential and pave the way for remarkable achievements.
