Jaylah Ji’mya Hickmon, professionally known as Doechii, was born on August 14, 1998, in Tampa, Florida. Raised in a Christian household, she grew up immersed in the performing arts, engaging in ballet, tap dancing, acting, cheerleading, and gymnastics. Although she initially aspired to be a professional choral singer, her journey took a different turn when a friend encouraged her to explore music production and release her work online. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her artistic career, as she began writing poetry and rap during her high school years, eventually leading to her first song release on SoundCloud in 2016.
Doechii’s debut EP, Oh the Places You’ll Go, was self-funded and released in 2020, showcasing a blend of pop, dance, and hip-hop influences. The standout single “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake,” inspired by Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way, went viral on TikTok in 2021, propelling her into the spotlight. This viral success caught the attention of record labels, leading to a transformative year where she released her second EP, Bra-Less, and collaborated with notable artists like Isaiah Rashad on the track “Wat U Sed.” Her dynamic performances, including an appearance at the 2021 BET Hip Hop Awards, further established her reputation as a rising star in the music industry.
In March 2022, Doechii signed with Top Dawg Entertainment in a joint venture with Capitol Records, making history as the first female rapper on the label. Her first single under this new partnership, “Persuasive,” showcased her distinct sound and artistic vision. The release of her second EP, She / Her / Black Bitch, in August 2022 marked a significant milestone in her career, solidifying her presence in mainstream music. Her performance of “Persuasive” earned a nomination for Push Performance of the Year at the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards, highlighting her growing recognition.
Doechii’s musical style is often characterized as alternative hip-hop, with her animated rap delivery and quirky narratives drawing comparisons to artists like Nicki Minaj, Missy Elliott, and Doja Cat. Her 2023 single “What It Is (Block Boy),” featuring Kodak Black, became her first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). This achievement, along with her Rising Star Award from Billboard Women in Music in 2023, underscores her rapid ascent in the music world.
In addition to her musical endeavors, Doechii has ventured into acting, making her debut in the film Earth Mama in 2023. Her artistic versatility continues to resonate with fans, and her presence on platforms like TikTok, where she has amassed over 1.2 million followers, allows her to connect with a broader audience.
Despite her rising fame, Doechii remains grounded in her roots. She currently resides in Tampa but has spent time in New York City. In a recent interview, she opened up about her personal life, sharing that she identifies as bisexual and has recently embraced sobriety after a period of heavy drinking. Her candidness about her journey and lifestyle resonates with many fans, further enhancing her relatability.
As of August 30, 2024, Doechii released her latest mixtape, Alligator Bites Never Heal, showcasing her evolution as an artist. With her unique sound and compelling narratives, Doechii is poised to become one of the most influential voices in contemporary hip-hop, blending her artistic talents with a strong sense of identity and authenticity.