Following her remarkable Grammy victory for Best Rap Album with her 2024 LP Alligator Bites Never Heal and the exciting news that her single “Anxiety” broke into the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, Doechii graced the stage at Billboard’s prestigious Women in Music 2025 event on Saturday night, March 29. During this unforgettable evening, she was honored with the title of 2025 Woman of the Year, a recognition that underscores her significant impact in the music industry.
With a playful spirit, Doechii engaged the audience at YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, asking, “Where’s the swamp? Do I have any fans in the house?” Her light-hearted banter prompted laughter and applause, especially following an enthusiastic introduction from her talented collaborators, Jayda Love and DJ Miss Milan. This moment showcased her charisma and connection with fans, highlighting her journey in the music industry.
Reflecting on her past, Doechii reminisced, “I cannot believe it was just two years ago I stood on this stage right here and accepted the Billboard Rising Star Award. I had literally performed so hard I danced my shoes off and had to hop up to the mic.” With a nostalgic smile, she recalled her performances of “Persuasive” and “Crazy,” emphasizing her dedication to always give her best. “That moment reflects how I approach my career – always go full out, always go hard, and always be fab,” she asserted, inspiring others to pursue their passions with equal fervor.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Doechii expressed gratitude towards her family, God, and the incredible women on her team and at her label. She emphasized that receiving the Woman of the Year honor represented a “full-circle moment” in her career, symbolizing her growth and the support she has received throughout her journey in the music industry.
Doechii also passionately addressed the significance of the Billboard Women in Music as an annual celebration within the industry. “I stand here as a fierce ally,” the Grammy-winning rapper declared. She highlighted that the event originated because “women in the music business were tired of not getting their seats at the table or the credit they deserved.” She noted, “This event was created out of a necessity,” emphasizing the importance of recognizing women’s contributions. Her mixtape, Alligator Bites Never Heal, she explained, was a space she created out of necessity—a platform where she could feel seen, heard, and connect with others through shared experiences.
The Swamp Princess pointed out that nearly two decades after the inception of Billboard Women in Music, issues such as a “lack of inclusion and sexism” continue to plague the industry. “And that’s a problem,” she stated, expressing her appreciation for the event’s role in advocating for change. “Which is why I’m grateful we have Billboard Women in Music,” she concluded, recognizing the event as a vital force for promoting equality in the industry.
“This is our motherf–king night to rightfully come together to acknowledge each other, support each other, and to celebrate,” she passionately declared. “We are the creators, we are the executives, we are the innovators who are just as central to this industry as the men. Clock it.” Her powerful words resonated throughout the venue, reinforcing the importance of unity and recognition among women in the music industry.
