Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, known professionally as Doja Cat, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter who emerged from the Los Angeles underground hip-hop scene. Born in 1995, she gained initial attention in 2012 by publishing original music to SoundCloud, eventually signing with Kemosabe and RCA Records to establish a career characterized by significant commercial and critical success.
Early Life and Education
Dlamini was born in the Tarzana neighborhood of Los Angeles. Her family relocated frequently during her childhood, including a period spent at the Sai Anantam Ashram in Agoura Hills. She attended the Ramon C. Cortines School of Visual and Performing Arts in Los Angeles. Dlamini left school at age 16 during her junior year to focus exclusively on pursuing a professional career in music and performance.
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After dropping out of school, she taught herself to produce tracks using GarageBand and uploaded them to SoundCloud. In 2012, she released the song So High as her first permanent upload. Through the Los Angeles hip-hop circuit, she met producers including Yeti Beats and Jerry Powell. She later signed with Kemosabe and RCA Records at age 17. Her debut EP, Purrr!, followed in 2014, and her first full-length studio album, Amala, was released in 2018.
Recognition and Awards
Her body of work has garnered numerous industry accolades. In 2020, she received the American Music Award for New Artist of the Year and the NRJ Music Award for International Revelation of the Year. Her 2021 achievements included the American Music Award for Collaboration of the Year, Favorite Soul/R&B Album, and Favorite Soul/R&B Female Artist. She earned a Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance in 2022.
Fast facts
- Born: 1995, Los Angeles
- Professional name: Doja Cat
- Education: Ramon C. Cortines School Of Visual And Performing Arts
- First permanent SoundCloud upload: 2012
- Major labels: Kemosabe and RCA Records
- Grammy Award win: 2022
Questions readers ask
What is the professional background of Doja Cat?
She is an American singer, songwriter, and rapper who began her career in the Los Angeles underground hip-hop scene.
Which awards has she received?
Her honors include American Music Awards, a Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, and an NRJ Music Award.
