Early Life and Education of Doja Cat: A Complete Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Doja Cat. A timeline of key moments.

Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, is a prominent American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. Recognized as the "Queen of Pop-Rap," she is celebrated for her versatility, captivating live performances, and engaging online persona. Acknowledged by Billboard as a leading global pop star and a defining figure of contemporary pop music, Doja Cat was also listed as one of Time's most influential people in 2023, solidifying her impact on music and popular culture.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

October 21, 1995: Doja Cat's Birth

On October 21, 1995, Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, known professionally as Doja Cat, was born in the Tarzana neighborhood of Los Angeles, California.

Others born on this day/year

2012: Gaining Stage Name

In 2012 as a teenager, Doja Cat gained her stage name from one of her cats and her favorite strain of marijuana, stating that she was "heavily addicted to weed and weed culture".

2019: Metaphor in "Bottom Bitch"

In 2019, Doja Cat's single "Bottom Bitch" was interpreted as a metaphor for lesbian sex.

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November 2021: Disdain Towards Persona

In November 2021, Doja Cat expressed disdain towards her stage name and the persona it carries, stating that "my image was the pothead hippie girl, and I'm not that."

2021: Buying Beverly Hills Home

In 2021, Doja Cat bought a home in Beverly Hills, California, for $2.2 million. She later sold it in September 2022 for $2.5 million.

2021: Sexual Reference in "Naked"

In 2021, Doja Cat's song "Naked" contained a tongue-in-cheek sexual reference alluding to bisexuality, stating that she "like[s] bananas and peaches".

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March 2022: Expressions of Career Burnout

In March 2022, Doja Cat shared her experiences of career burnout, expressing disdain for "unnecessary" obligations and admitting she was no longer enjoying her career. During a South American festival tour, following an incident involving Paraguayan fans due to a cancelled show, she expressed her frustration and suggested she was quitting music.

May 2022: Nicotine Addiction and Health Issues

In May 2022, Doja Cat opened up about her nicotine addiction on Twitter, revealing she required lancing of an infected tonsil caused by vaping and planned a tonsillectomy, leading to cancellation of summer festival performances and opening for The Weeknd's tour.