DIGEST ART
Doja Cat returned to the spotlight on September 26th with the release of her fifth studio album, Vie. Blending retro ’80s vibes with pop, contemporary R&B, and funk-inspired production, the 15-track project showcases her versatility and bold creative direction. The album features a single collaboration with SZA and quickly made waves across streaming platforms.
Among the standout contributors was producer Jack Antonoff, who worked closely with Doja Cat to explore emotionally complex themes, particularly the concept of love bombing. “Honestly, it’s better than I expected. I enjoyed the production and different beats,” said Jordan Parker, a sophomore psychology student at Southern University. She described this theme as a reflection of past relationship dynamics and personal growth, mainly evident in the track “Acts of Service.” The song features a lo-fi, dreamy beat and lyrics that delve into emotional vulnerability and the complexities of romantic expectations.
On its opening day, Vie earned over 13 million streams globally, marking one of the biggest launches of the season. Topping the charts was the track “Jealous Type,” which debuted with more than 3.17 million streams, setting a new record for the biggest solo streaming debut by a female rapper in Spotify history. The song’s raw lyrics about jealousy and emotional insecurity hit home for many listeners, while its 80s-inspired sound and bold visuals added to its appeal. “The song itself had this vibe to it and stuck out to me the most,” said Ja’Asia Robertson, a sophomore nursing major at Southern University. Even “Jealous Type” gained early momentum after being previewed in Marc Jacobs’ campaign, giving the track a high-fashion boost and its place as a memorable highlight in the album.
Despite the commercial success of Vie, Doja Cat’s latest album has stirred mixed reactions from fans and critics. Some listeners have voiced concerns about the album’s themes and visuals, while others say they lost interest after her previous single, “Paint the Town Red.” Among the more outspoken critics is Trinity Smith, a senior criminal justice major, who said, “I don’t listen to Doja Cat after her demonic episode!” Her reaction reflects a broader conversation happening among fans who feel unsure about the direction Doja Cat is taking with her music and public image.
Whether Vie marks a new chapter, one thing is clear: Doja Cat isn’t afraid to challenge expectations. With its mix of nostalgic sounds, emotional depth, and differentiating visuals, the album invites listeners to reconsider what defines her artistry. For fans and critics alike, Vie raises the question: Is this the new Doja Cat, or just another layer of an artist still evolving in real time? Either way, she keeps people talking and listening.