Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, is one of the hottest and most fashionable acts in the pop music industry today, known for hits like “Kiss Me More” and “Woman” from her popular 2021 album Planet Her. But her musical achievements often share the spotlight with the numerous controversies she’s associated with.

Doja Cat poses on the red carpet at the MTV Video Music Awards in Newark, New Jersey, US, on September 12. Photo: EPA-EFE

Notorious for her online antics, the Grammy-winning rap artist embraces the role of what’s known as a “s***poster”, often sharing provocative and nonsensical messages on social media. And while this behaviour has helped the 27-year-old attract an audience and amplify her music over the years, it has also sparked significant backlash, including reportedly losing half a million Instagram followers in a month this past summer after she openly mocked her fans.

This impact was felt when Scarlet, her latest album, debuted at a lower-than-expected No 4 on US’ Billboard 200 albums chart, despite its lead single “Paint the Town Red” topping the Billboard Hot 100.

Doja Cat is known for her bold and quirky ensembles. Photo: @dojacat/Instagram

Doja Cat’s career is peppered with contentious moments, from using racial and homophobic slurs to trolling fans, weaving a complex narrative of success and scandal. So how will the artist’s reputation shape her future in the music industry?