Before Doechii could create the Grammy-winning music that would define her career, she had to rewrite her personal story. The Anxiety hitmaker recently shared the raw and transformative process that led to her breakthrough, revealing how her personal experiences shaped her music and creative process.
SZA’s Ctrl Sparks a Life-Changing Decision
In a Cosmopolitan cover story published on April 21, Doechii reflected on the pivotal moment in her life when her creativity was stifled by an unsupportive relationship. At the age of 18, Doechii was dating someone who didn’t appreciate her passion for music, causing her to stop writing. “I stopped writing because he was just like, ‘That’s not cool,’” she admitted.
However, everything changed when she listened to SZA’s Ctrl, an album that became a turning point in her life. “I remember listening to SZA’s Ctrl for the first time, and it literally gave me the courage to break up with him,” Doechii shared. The emotional and empowering themes of Ctrl gave Doechii the strength to walk away from a relationship that was holding her back creatively.
A Shift Towards Vulnerability and Honesty in Her Music
SZA’s Ctrl not only inspired Doechii to take control of her personal life but also taught her the importance of vulnerability in music. “She inspired me to be vulnerable through my music in a way that I didn’t think I could be,” Doechii explained. This newfound sense of authenticity was pivotal in her songwriting process, allowing her to pour her emotions into her work like never before.
The emotional breakthrough led to the creation of Denial Is a River, a deeply personal song that took a full year to write. “Sometimes I have to process things before I can talk about them,” Doechii said. “But that song took me a year to process. I didn’t want to give my ex any promo in my music.”
The Power of Vulnerability in Her Music
In Denial Is a River, Doechii explores the complexities of past relationships. Despite how the song may seem, it’s not about just one person. “I talked about three different exes in that song. People think it’s just one!” she shared. This layered approach to storytelling is a hallmark of Doechii’s music, showcasing her ability to turn personal experiences into relatable, artful expression.
Grammy-Winning Success and the Rise of Doechii
Doechii’s journey culminated in a historic Grammy win this year for Alligator Bites Never Heal, which earned her the title of the second woman, after Cardi B, to win a Grammy for Best Rap Album. Her success proves that authenticity and vulnerability are powerful forces in the music industry.
“A little bit of art and authenticity wins,” Doechii said of her achievement. “Vulnerability wins.” Her message has resonated with fans and industry peers alike, making her one of the most promising voices in the music scene.
Conclusion: Vulnerability as the Key to Creative Success
Doechii’s story is a testament to the power of embracing vulnerability and staying true to oneself in both life and music. By rewriting her personal story and finding the courage to be authentic in her artistry, Doechii has solidified her place in the music world with a Grammy-winning album and an empowering message for all creators.
