On new ’80s-inspired album ‘Vie,’ Doja Cat leans heavily into neo funk, experiments with French, and collaborates with R&B powerhouse SZA. Though on top of this, the American rapper’s fifth album ticked all her usual boxes: shimmering synths, rap verses championing female empowerment and, of course, a whole load of savage wordplay. We delve deeper into the album’s lyrics to pull out Doja’s most scathing witticisms.
“She ain’t so Christian in Louboutins” – ‘Gorgeous’
Perhaps the most militant track on the album, ‘Gorgeous’ takes aim at the impossible beauty standards women face – and the hypocrisy of being called ‘fake’ for meeting them. This clever slice of wordplay succinctly captures the double-edged nature of public scrutiny.
“Sticky situation so I reapply and gloss / Over the fact you not a threat, you need to realise your loss” – ‘Lipstain’
Beneath what appears to be a silky, sensual ballad built around imagery of lip products and neck kisses, there’s a slightly possessive undertone. Laced between French sweet nothings and loving embraces, Doja marks her territory by kissing her lover’s collarbone with her favourite lip stain and urging him to get it tattooed. Her jealousy comes to a head in this triple-layered lip gloss metaphor.
“Man I’m glad for that pre-nup we signed last Monday” – ‘Silly! Fun!’
This upbeat disco track serves as a wise reminder to us all not to get too carried away in the heat of the moment. We’re taken through the highs and lows of a whirlwind romance at whiplash-inducing speed. Falling in love, having a baby, and getting married in Vegas are dismissed as fantasy by Doja as she scoffs “Get a grip, boy, this life here ain’t no vacation” when it becomes apparent that trust and dedication are missing.
“I just deleted Raya, that must mean I’m your provider / That just mean I’ma be your rider” – ‘Acts Of Service’
Could Doja and Joseph Quinn still be an item? Littered with British lingo and references to being in a ‘power couple,’ there is speculation that ‘Acts Of Service’ is an ode to the British actor with whom Doja has had a rumoured relationship since 2024. The track is equal parts romantic and lustful, as this rhyming triplet exemplifies – because nothing says ‘I love you’ like sacrificing your coveted spot on a celebrity dating app.
“She’s in our bed, I bought the sheets” – ‘Happy’
Contrary to its title, ‘Happy’ is a solemn song by Doja’s standards, surrounding the struggle of letting go after a break-up. Doja lets her true feelings of heartbreak peek out from beneath the romantic glamour of the whispered French language chorus – but there’s still space for a cutting jab at her ex and their new beau to remind us who’s boss.
