Doja Cat — It’s rather typical for singers to interact with their fans on social media, however misunderstandings do arise from time to time. Doja Cat, on the other hand, had a rocky start to her weekend fan interaction.
Threads was an attempt by the artist to construct boundaries between herself and her audience, and while the idea was evident, the execution resulted in a misunderstanding. As a result, it appears that some of her fans have turned against her.
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What happened?
Doja Cat took to Threads on Sunday to address to followers, particularly a group of admirers who had labeled their following “kittenz,” despite the fact that, as opposed to other singers’ fanbases, hers did not have a recognized nickname.
“If you call yourself ‘kitten’ or kittenz,’ that means you need to get off your phone and get a job and help your parents,” Doja Cat wrote.
“TheKittenzWeb” fan account inquired what they should change their name to instead, seeking to have the musician sanctify the nickname. Doja, on the other hand, seemed irritated, saying:
“Just delete the entire account and rethink everything. It’s never too late.”
Doja Cat continued to post on Threads, stating she was afraid of anyone using her true name as their pseudonym. Despite their disappointment, fans hoped for a little love from their favorite performer. Someone said they hoped to hear Doja Cat mention she loves her fans, but she got a frigid response.
“I don’t though because I don’t even know y’all.”
A Taylor Swift fan account reacted, claiming that even though they don’t know the singer as a person, they still support her, telling Doja Cat that she would be nothing if it weren’t for their support.
“Nobody forced you,” the rapper replied, ending the interaction. “[I don’t know] why you’re talking to me like you’re my mother bitch, you sound like a crazy person.”
How do nicknames get made?
Musicians establish fan bases by consistently committing themselves to their craft, interacting with their audience, and connecting with followers through social media and live performances. Quality music, accessible lyrics, and a distinct personality are all important components in gaining fans who identify with the artist’s approach.
A fandom nickname is important because it develops a sense of belonging and connection among fans. It forges an identity that supporters joyfully embrace, increasing their relationship with the artist and other fans.
The moniker might be derived from the musician’s name, the title of a song, or a distinguishing feature. This nickname-driven camaraderie fosters devotion, stimulates fans to actively support the artist, and builds a devoted fan base. Finally, having a strong audience name increases the artist’s visibility and appeal, as well as the prospect of having a greater and longer-lasting effect on the music business.
Aftermath
Nobody anticipated Doja Cat to disparage her own fans. It’s no wonder that in this day and age, fan accounts with fandom names sprout up on Instagram and Twitter to show support for their favorite musicians.
Doja Cat’s account appears to have been deactivated in response to Threads’ comments, placing fans at a crossroads. Several people interpreted the remarks as an unkind way for an artist to communicate with her fans, and several of her most prominent fan accounts have begun to shut down.
Doja Cat’s antics were compared to those of artist Azealia Banks by a Twitter user. Many individuals were disappointed by her words. Another admirer emailed the artist a now-viral open letter describing how they had supported her over the years.
“Some of us have been here since 2018, and perhaps even earlier, to watch you develop as a performer and artist and become the celebrity you are now. We’ve stood with you during every incident you’ve faced,” the open letter started.
“We purchased your music, tour tickets, and merch because we enjoyed it. Because it is ultimately your personal life and decision, we choose to remain silent during your previous romantic partners.”
“Once more, when you were accused of being racist, we sprang to your defense. We once again defended you when you were accused of being racist and other wrongdoings because of the love partners you chose. For you, we have truly gone through hell and back.”
The letter also mentions Doja Cat’s new partner and the claims levied against him, pushing the artist to see things differently.
“Please take a break, contemplate, recover, drop your music, and move on,” it continued.
“We believe you are capable of far better than this. In the end, we are unable to direct your actions since, yes, it is ultimately your choice. Our recommendation is to accept responsibility and stand up while holding yourself accountable.”
Doja Cat’s past troubles
While this is a major story, Doja Cat is no stranger to online controversy, having previously collaborated with producer Dr. Luke and Kemosabe Records, who were accused of sexual assault by artist Kesha.
The largest uproar occurred in 2020, when a recording of Doja in a TinyChat video discussion with people who were purportedly “incels” at the time leaked, during which she allegedly yelled homophobic obscenities and made racial insults. The rapper then removed the Instagram remark.
“I’ve used public chat rooms to socialize since I was a child,” she explained. “I shouldn’t have been on some of those chat room sites, but I personally have never been involved in any racist conversations. I’m sorry to everyone I offended.”
