‘This is who we want to see not Cocaine Breezy’ South Africans react to viral Doja Cat performance

by Nomonde Simelane

American-born rapper, singer and essentially jack-of-all-trades Doja Cat, born Amala Zandile Dlamini is making international headlines for her breathtaking performance at the Global Citizen Festival, which was once held in South Africa. However, her South African-themed dress stole the show, not only for its beauty but for the strong message relayed by the artists.

Although Doja is an American-born musician, her father is the popular Dumisani Dlamini, a significant trailblazer in South African theatre and television. However, due to their complicated and estranged relationship, she has been hesitant to embrace her South African heritage, until her latest performance, that is.

Shocking the world, Doja donned a South African-themed version of her popular ‘Say So’ dress which she previously wore before. She also delivered a powerful message, revealing her ongoing partnership with Global Citizen.

“Right now, millions of men, women and children in Gaza, Ukraine Sudan, the Congo and all across the world are suffering. In times like this, it is important to remember that together we have the power to bring change, love, light, and hope to those who need it most,” she said.

Impressed by the ‘Say So’ singer, South African users took to their social media to express their excitement,  not only for Doja’s incredible and powerful performance but for the powerful statement of rocking a dress with their flag on a platform of that magnitude. For many, it signifies her finally embracing her South African heritage.

Some users have gone as far as saying that it is Doja Cat that South Africans want to see perform, not Chris Brown, as the ‘Residuals’ musician recently announced his trip to South Africa.

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