Doja Cat Breaks the Mold with “Paint the Town Red”

Doja Cat has never been one to follow industry norms, but with Paint the Town Red, she takes creative control to a whole new level. Released in 2023 as the lead single from her album Scarlet, the track is a bold, rebellious statement that effortlessly blends hip-hop, R&B, and pop influences, proving once again that Doja is an artist who refuses to be boxed in.

From the first note, the song exudes confidence. Built around a jazzy, blues-infused sample of Dionne Warwick’s Walk on By, the production feels both retro and modern, setting the stage for Doja’s effortless flow. Unlike some of her previous mainstream hits, Paint the Town Red leans heavily into rap, showcasing her razor-sharp lyricism and undeniable swagger.

Lyrically, Doja Cat doesn’t hold back. The track feels like a direct response to critics, with lines like “I said what I said” and “Btch, I said what I said”* reinforcing her unbothered attitude. It’s a song about owning your power, shutting out negativity, and unapologetically being yourself—a message that resonates even more given the scrutiny she’s faced in recent years.

Beyond its infectious beat and bold lyrics, Paint the Town Red was a cultural reset. It soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, making Doja the first female rapper in over a decade to achieve a solo No. 1 hit. The track also dominated TikTok, where its catchy hook and fearless energy made it a go-to sound for self-assured confidence.

Doja Cat breaks the mold with Paint the Town Red, proving that she’s not just a pop star—she’s an artist in complete control of her narrative. With its genre-blending sound and defiant attitude, this song is more than just a hit—it’s a statement.