When Doja Cat’s “Say So” first hit the airwaves in January 2020, it seemed like just another track from her 2019 album, *Hot Pink*. But propelled by a viral TikTok trend and a couple of Nicki Minaj remixes, it soared to the top of the Hot 100 and became a nostalgic link to the pre-pandemic world. Now, with her latest release, *Planet Her*, Doja Cat emerges from lockdown with an album as vibrant and sparkling as a summer’s day.

*Planet Her* opens with “Woman,” a sultry island-inspired track reminiscent of mid-career Rihanna, and continues with “Naked,” a lively ode to anticipation. The album features an impressive roster of collaborators, including Young Thug on “Payday,” Ariana Grande on “I Don’t Do Drugs,” The Weeknd on “You Right,” and SZA on the disco-tinged hit “Kiss Me More.” Despite ongoing controversy surrounding producer Dr. Luke, who has faced industry backlash, Doja Cat’s album remains a testament to her own brand of empowerment. She confidently raps about her ambitions and independence, presenting herself as a pop leader in the whimsical world she has crafted, unshaken by external judgments.