Last Updated on March 11, 2025 by Bertrand Clarke
In a year already brimming with milestones, Doechii has reached yet another pinnacle in her meteoric rise. The groundbreaking rapper and songwriter has been named Billboard’s 2025 Woman of the Year, solidifying her status as one of the most influential voices in music today. The announcement, made by Billboard on Monday, comes ahead of the publication’s annual Women in Music event, where Doechii will be honored alongside other luminaries in the industry.
For Doechii, the recognition is a testament to her relentless creativity, bold artistry, and unwavering authenticity. Since bursting onto the scene, the Tampa-born artist has defied conventions, blending genres and pushing boundaries with her razor-sharp lyricism and genre-defying sound. Her viral hits, including “No Scrubs” and “Denial is a River,” have not only dominated streaming platforms but also cemented her as a force to be reckoned with in the rap world.
The accolade follows a year of unprecedented achievements for Doechii. In January, she took home her first Grammy Award for her critically acclaimed album Alligator Bites Never Heals, winning in the fiercely competitive Best Rap Album category. This historic win made her only the third woman in Grammy history to claim the honor, a feat that underscores her impact on a traditionally male-dominated genre. Her electrifying performance at the awards show, where she delivered a medley of “Denial is a River” and “Catfish,” further showcased her dynamic stage presence and artistry.
Doechii’s rise to stardom has been nothing short of extraordinary. With five songs on the Billboard Hot 100, including collaborations with heavyweights like Tyler the Creator and BLACKPINK’s Jennie, she has proven her versatility and broad appeal. Tracks like “Balloon” and “ExtraL” have not only resonated with fans but also demonstrated her ability to seamlessly blend rap, pop, and R&B into a sound that is uniquely her own.
Billboard’s recognition of Doechii is not her first from the publication. In 2023, she was awarded the Music Rising Star award, a precursor to her current honor. She now joins an elite group of artists, including Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande, who have gone on to receive the Woman of the Year title after being named Rising Star. This trajectory highlights her consistent growth and the indelible mark she has made on the music industry in a relatively short time.
In a statement, Billboard’s editor-in-chief Hannah Karp lauded Doechii for her “ultra-candid lyrics and utterly unique sound, style, and spirit.” Karp emphasized how Doechii’s music resonates with a generation seeking authenticity and innovation, calling her “a true trailblazer who continues to redefine what it means to be a woman in hip-hop and beyond.”
The 2025 Women in Music event promises to be a celebration of female talent across genres and generations. Alongside Doechii, BLACKPINK’s Jennie will be honored as Songwriter of the Year, while Erykah Badu will receive the Breakthrough Award. Pop sensation Meghan Trainor will be recognized as this year’s Hitmaker, a nod to her enduring influence on the charts. The evening will also feature performances by a diverse lineup of artists, including Ángela Aguilar, aespa, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, Megan Moroney, Muni Long, and Tyla, ensuring a night of unforgettable music and celebration.
Doechii’s journey to this moment has been marked by resilience and a refusal to conform. Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, she has often spoken about the challenges of breaking into the music industry as a woman of color. Her music, which frequently explores themes of identity, empowerment, and self-expression, has struck a chord with fans worldwide. Songs like “Denial is a River” have become anthems for those navigating the complexities of love and life, while her unapologetic approach to her craft has inspired a new generation of artists.
As she prepares to accept the Woman of the Year award, Doechii remains focused on her mission to uplift and inspire. In a recent interview, she reflected on her journey, saying, “I’ve always wanted my music to be a reflection of who I am—flaws and all. To be recognized like this, it’s not just about me. It’s about every girl who’s ever been told she can’t do something because of who she is or where she comes from. This is for them.”
With her star continuing to rise, Doechii shows no signs of slowing down. Fans eagerly await her next project, which she has teased as “a love letter to my roots and my future.” As she steps into the spotlight at Billboard’s Women in Music event, one thing is clear: Doechii is not just the Woman of the Year—she is a defining voice of her generation, and her influence will be felt for years to come.
The 2025 Women in Music event will take place later this month, with the ceremony set to be streamed live for fans around the world. As the music industry gathers to celebrate its brightest stars, all eyes will be on Doechii, a visionary artist whose journey is only just beginning.
