Doechii Addresses ‘Industry Plant’ Claims in New Single Featuring SZA

Doechii has released a new single titled "Girl, Get Up" featuring SZA, which addresses ongoing claims of her being an "industry plant." This is the second collaboration between the artists, following their 2022 work on the "Persuasive" remix.

The notion of being labeled as an “industry plant” arises frequently in hip-hop and R&B discussions, particularly for artists gaining rapid traction. Both Doechii and SZA have faced these allegations in their careers. SZA's rise began with her 2017 debut album "Ctrl," which received considerable attention and led to similar critiques.

According to music industry analysts, this term is often used to discredit artists who have substantial label backing upon entering the scene. Doechii's previous singles, like "Persuasive," which charted at number 23 on Billboard's Hot R&B Songs, exemplify her mainstream appeal that some attribute to strategic industry manipulation.

The single became available on October 27, 2023, and is part of Doechii's broader initiative to define her authenticity in the industry. She stated, "What’s the agenda when the It Girl Black?" emphasizing her multifaceted identity and challenging the stereotypical narratives within the music industry.

Previously, Doechii was involved in the 2023 Dreamville Festival, where she performed alongside J. Cole and SZA, enhancing her visibility. This marks an essential point in her career, establishing her as a formidable presence in contemporary music.

Historically, the relationship between authenticity and commercial success has been contentious. For instance, Lil Nas X faced similar scrutiny regarding his debut single “Old Town Road” in 2019, where critics questioned his background and authenticity after its massive success.

Looking ahead, Doechii plans to release her debut studio album in early 2024, expanding her artistic footprint post-"Girl, Get Up.” Sources suggest that she is working with top producers known for their innovative approaches.

Expectations for the album are high, fueled by the momentum of her recent singles. As she continues to evolve as an artist, the scrutiny regarding her industry status may persist but could also motivate her to craft more compelling narratives in her music.

With both SZA and Doechii publicly engaging in conversations about identity and industry pressures, their collaboration has broader implications beyond music. They address systemic issues surrounding race, success, and authenticity in their respective genres.