The audience at the 2025 Grammy Awards started the night just about dead, but Doechii brought them back to life. Following up a strong Best New Artist set by Benson Boone, she delivered a stunning rendition of "CATFISH"—a performance so captivating it brought the house down. Doechii had already snagged the Grammy for Best Rap Album for her mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal, which had been lauded as one of the 50 best albums of 2024. This accolade, as Doechii pointed out during her emotional acceptance speech, marked a significant moment: only two previous women had been awarded this honor since the category was introduced in 1989—Lauryn Hill and Cardi B.
Her performance of "CATFISH" met the historic moment with electrifying energy. Backup dancers stomped across the stage in violent unison, as Doechii showcased breath control, likely catching the attention of festival bookers nationwide. Attendees were treated to dramatic visuals, including her shifting costumes and the palpable excitement radiated throughout the hall. After one swift costume change, the camera panned to Billie Eilish, who couldn’t contain her astonishment, shouting, “Wow!”
Drenched in creativity, Doechii took the stage to perform two of her singles—"CATFISH" and "Denial Is A River"—with over a dozen backup dancers clad in matching Thom Browne suits. Their synchronized choreography provided the backdrop as Doechii launched from one song to the next. When her dancers ripped off her outer layer to reveal couture undergarments, the energy intensified. The rapper seamlessly transitioned, engaging the crowd with the lively performance of "Denial Is A River," where she rapped back and forth with her therapist alter ego, played by DJ Miss Milan, on what can only be described as a sliding floor.
Earlier, Doechii had made history by becoming only the third woman to ever win the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, repeating the significance of this achievement during her acceptance speech. “This category was introduced in 1989,” she noted, “and only two women have won: Lauryn Hill, Cardi B, and Doechii.” Her words reflected not just on her accomplishment but also on the barriers she and many others continue to face.
"I don’t wanna make this long, but I put my heart and my soul [into this mixtape]," she said passionately, fighting back tears. “I went through so much and I dedicated myself to sobriety. God told me I would be rewarded.” Her poignant message of perseverance and empowerment resounded throughout the audience, and she pointedly addressed young Black women watching her from afar. “Anything is possible. Don’t allow anybody to project any stereotypes on you,” she urged, solidifying her role as not just an artist but also as a beacon of hope.
Diving deep, Doechii's rise has been nothing short of meteoric since the release of Alligator Bites Never Heal. To highlight her growth, it's worth noting the acclaim her work has received, drawing comparisons to major releases such as Kendrick Lamar’s Section.80 and SZA’s CTRL for its authenticity and lyrical sharpness. The night showcased not just her talent but her ability to captivate audiences—an affirmational dance representing individual struggle as she celebrated her remarkable achievements at the Grammys.
Despite the upbeat performances, the competition was fierce. Doechii was also nominated for Best New Artist and Best Rap Performance for “Nissan Altima,” though the latter award was claimed by Kendrick Lamar for his track “Not Like Us.” Nonetheless, her sheer presence during the Grammy ceremony left no doubt about her bright future.
Save for Sabrina Carpenter's triumph for Best Remixed Recording with “Espresso [Mark Ronson x FNZ Working Late Remix],” Doechii was not only celebrated for her awards but also for her unique impact on hip-hop. With her headlining sold-out tours, viral performances on platforms like NPR’s Tiny Desk, and engaging televised appearances, Doechii’s influence is undeniable.
Reflecting on her creative process, Doechii shared, “It’s scary, and it’s very vulnerable… because I have to do it, because I’m an artist.” Her authenticity has won over fans and critics alike, establishing her as not just another performer but as one with a visceral connection to her art.
To witness her live at the 2025 Grammy Awards was to witness the birth of a new icon. With accolades already under her belt, one can only speculate what her next steps will be as she continues to rise. Keep an eye on Doechii; she's here to stay, and her message resonates far beyond the stage.