Doja Cat, the acclaimed artist known for her versatile musical style and captivating stage presence, has once again found herself addressing questions surrounding her racial identity. In a recent cover interview, the Los Angeles-based star, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, directly responded to comments questioning her “Blackness,” clarifying her upbringing and influences. This isn’t the first time Doja Cat’s heritage has been a topic of discussion, and her latest remarks offer further insight into how she perceives her own identity amidst public scrutiny.
The conversation was sparked by remarks Doja Cat encountered suggesting she lacked Black influence during her formative years. Speaking with Dazed magazine, she refuted these claims, stating, “I read something the other day where someone said I was never surrounded by Black people, and I have no Black influence in my life, which is so unbelievably crazy to me.” She emphasized the strong presence of Black culture in her upbringing, explaining, “Growing up on the land, it was all Black energy. My family was Black. My mum was the only real white influence in my life.” Doja Cat’s father is South African actor Dumisani Dlamini, and while her mother is of Jewish-American heritage, Doja highlighted that her daily life and familial environment were deeply rooted in Black culture and experiences.
Doja Cat in October 2022
This clarification comes after past controversies that have contributed to the ongoing discussion about Doja Cat’s racial identity. In 2020, allegations of anti-Black rhetoric in online video chats surfaced, and a 2015 track titled ‘Dindu Nuffin’ – a term used as a racist slur – resurfaced, causing significant backlash. The song title, mocking victims of police brutality, drew widespread criticism and intensified questions about her understanding and sensitivity towards racial issues.
Doja Cat addressed the controversy at the time, issuing an apology for the offensive song and denying participation in racist conversations. “I personally have never been involved in any racist conversations,” she stated in her apology. “I’m sorry to everyone that I offended.” Crucially, she affirmed her Black identity, adding, “I’m a Black woman. Half of my family is black from South Africa, and I’m very proud of where I come from.” This statement in 2020, coupled with her recent comments in Dazed, underscores her consistent affirmation of her Black heritage and the importance of her Black family in shaping her identity.
Beyond addressing her racial identity, the Dazed interview also touched upon Doja Cat’s evolving personal style and artistic direction. She shared her newfound sense of self and confidence since shaving her head, stating she has “never felt more beautiful.” This embrace of unconventional beauty standards aligns with her artistic persona, often characterized by boundary-pushing creativity and a willingness to challenge norms. Doja Cat described her concept of beauty as “going against” societal expectations, expressing her appreciation for “twist[ing]” classic beauty ideals to create something unique and personal.
Musically, Doja Cat continues to evolve. Her critically acclaimed album ‘Planet Her’ was released in June 2021, showcasing her signature blend of pop, rap, and R&B. While she had previously hinted at a German rave-inspired project, she later clarified that her next musical direction would be different, keeping fans in anticipation of her next creative chapter. However, amidst her artistic explorations, the recurring questions about her racial identity highlight a persistent public interest in understanding Doja Cat beyond her music, and how she navigates her identity in the public eye. Her recent interview in Dazed serves as a direct response to these questions, offering clarity and reaffirming her connection to her Black heritage.
