Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
“Some individuals don’t even consider it real music,” the singer remarked, addressing the public’s criticism and how pop music is often perceived.
Doja Cat Returns to Her Pop Roots with New Album Vie
Doja Cat is revisiting the genre that launched her into mainstream success.
In a recent conversation with V Magazine published on July 1, the Grammy-winning artist offered insights into her upcoming album, Vie, and what fans can expect.
Despite her previous declaration in 2023 that she was done with pop—stating at the time that the genre no longer inspired her and describing her earlier pop albums, Planet Her and Hot Pink, as “cash-grabs”—the 29-year-old singer now says Vie will have a strong pop influence.
“I’m aware this is a pop-centered record,” she admitted in the interview. “I understand how to make pop music. At the end of the day, pop just means it’s widely liked.”
She reflected on how pop music is often perceived, noting that it’s sometimes treated more like entertainment than art. “To some, it becomes more of a spectacle—something people watch from the sidelines without really appreciating it for what it is: music,” she said.
She went on to address the stigma surrounding pop further, adding, “There are people who don’t even recognize it as legitimate music. They see it more like a pastime or a game, something tailored to girls and the LGBTQ+ community.”
The “Kiss Me More” hitmaker revealed that Vie is centered on themes of romance, intimacy, and the complexities of relationships—including one’s relationship with oneself.
While breakup anthems are a staple of the genre, Doja said the album contains just one song that touches on frustration with men. The overall message, however, leans into optimism. “Vie is really about love—not just love as it is, but love as I envision it, what I hope it could be.”
Though she’s leaning into pop again, she also confirmed that rapping remains a significant part of the album. “I’ve learned so much about using my voice more dynamically, more than ever before,” she explained.
Doja also emphasized her growing attention to production details, saying she’s become more focused on the technical side of music-making. “What matters to me is how everything sounds—whether the mix is right, if a verse needs to be re-recorded, or if certain instruments should be removed. That’s what makes a song worth hearing. I wouldn’t be an artist if I didn’t care.”
Looking ahead, she said she’s learning to accept the ebbs and flows of success. “If one of my projects doesn’t perform as well as the last, I don’t want to panic,” she said. “I want to be okay with that and embrace the process.”
