I’ve heard Doja on the radio a few times (namely Say So & Baby I’m Jealous [Her collab with Bebe Rexha]) and seen her perform on TV as well and I think she has a unique voice, a great stage presence and creativity when it comes to her performances.
That’s where the positives end for me sadly and it’s a shame because I think there’s definitely a place for Doja in Dance Pop (with R&B, Hip-Hop/Rap & 80s elements mixed in) next to Dua and Abel (The Weeknd). My biggest problem is she sounds too much like the other female acts on Top 40 & Hip-Hop/R&B radio currently (Ariana, Cardi, Ava, Megan, etc.). Not to mention, the current state of Hip-Hop/Rap is one I’m not the biggest fan of. I feel Doja and her voice are much better suited for Pop/R&B rather than Pop/Hip-Hop.
As for Planet Her, the potential for a breakout album, a Future Nostalgia/After Hours-esque album is definitely there but unfortunately after listening to it, there’s only a couple of songs that really stand out to me: You Right (Feat. The Weeknd) & Alone. These are the only 2 songs I feel you really hear how good, unique Doja’s voice is, the rest sound like anything you’d hear on a Cardi, Megan or Nicki album.
For her voice, stage presence and creativity + You Right & Alone, I’m giving Doja 3 stars.