Doechii, Hip-Hop’s ‘Swamp Princess,’ Debuts in Boston
On Sunday night, Doechii, known as Hip-Hop’s “Swamp Princess,” made her debut performance at MGM Music Hall in Fenway, Boston. The Tampa native, aged 27, structured her show as an engaging hip-hop masterclass. She explored key elements like storytelling, rhyming, and scratching while delivering a powerful set that highlighted her musical versatility.
Breakthrough and Recent Achievements
Doechii gained recognition in 2021 with her single “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake.” This track, inspired by a 1995 children’s book, showcases her talent in a personal narrative format. It reflects her insecurities as she responds to an “introduce yourself” prompt from a teacher.
Her success led to being signed by Top Dawg Entertainment, making her the label’s first female rapper. In 2023, her hit “What It Is (Block Boy)” reached the Top 40 charts, sampling TLC and echoing the early 2000s pop and R&B sound.
Artistry and New Releases
Amidst her rising success, Doechii faced personal challenges, which she addressed in her upcoming track “DENIAL IS A RIVER.” This 2024 release revisits the confessional style of “Fruitcake” and delves into her experiences with toxic relationships and mental health struggles.
Her latest mixtape, “Alligator Bites Never Heal,” released this year, provides insight into her healing journey. The project received critical acclaim, winning the Grammy for Best Rap Album. Standout tracks include the title song and “CATFISH,” which have featured in notable choreographed performances.
Memorable Boston Performance
During the Boston show, Doechii captivated the audience with a compact yet engaging setlist. Highlights included her freestyle over Beyoncé’s “AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM” and collaborations with K-pop star Jennie and fellow Florida artist JT. The performance reached its peak with “WAIT,” a track that invokes the soothing sounds of Quiet Storm.
She encouraged the audience to put down their phones and engage with one another, creating a heartfelt atmosphere. “That’s love. That’s peace. That’s safety… This can heal the world,” she expressed to the crowd, emphasizing her ambition to connect through music.
Setlist Highlights
- Yucky Blucky Fruitcake
- What It Is (Block Boy)
- WAIT
- AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (Freestyle)
- CUTS: BOILED PEANUTS, Alter Ego
- Collaborations with Jennie and JT
Doechii’s performance at the MGM Music Hall showcased her blend of talent and purpose, promising a bright future in the music industry. Fans eagerly anticipate her next moves and upcoming projects as her artistic journey unfolds.