Doja Cat’sBold Oscars Performance Sparks Mixed Reactions

Doja Cat, the vibrant and unpredictable artist known for her dynamic music style and unapologetic personality, recently took the stage at the 2025 Oscars, delivering a performance that left audiences divided. The 29-year-old singer, rapper, and songwriter was part of a high-profile James Bond tribute during the ceremony, performing the iconic song “Diamonds Are Forever” alongside Blackpink’s Lisa and Raye. While the medley was undoubtedly a moment of glamour and nostalgia, it also sparked a wave of criticism, with many viewers taking to social media to express their opinions—both positive and negative. Doja Cat, however, was quick to defend herself, showing her signature resilience and emphasizing the courage it took to step outside her comfort zone.

A Star-Studded James Bond Tribute

The Bond-themed medley was one of the standout moments of the Oscars ceremony, bringing together three powerhouse performers to celebrate the iconic film franchise’s legendary soundtrack. The tribute kicked off with Margaret Qualley’s dance number, followed by Lisa’s sultry rendition of “Live and Let Die,” a song originally performed by Paul McCartney & Wings for the 1973 Bond film of the same name. Doja Cat then took center stage, delivering her version of “Diamonds Are Forever,” a track made famous by Shirley Bassey in 1971. Clad in a dazzling, jewel-encrusted gown, Doja Cat fully embraced the essence of a Bond girl, but her performance was met with mixed reactions. Raye closed the medley with a soulful delivery of Adele’s “Skyfall,” the theme song for the 2012 Bond film.

While the collaboration was undeniably ambitious, it left some viewers underwhelmed, particularly when it came to Doja Cat’s segment. Many felt that her rendition of “Diamonds Are Forever” lacked the gravitas and warmth that Shirley Bassey brought to the original, and some even questioned whether Doja was the right choice for the song. The criticism was swift and vocal, with fans and critics alike taking to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to share their thoughts. One user wrote, “Shirley Bassey deserves an apology on so many levels. Why was this approved?” Another commenter added, “That’s a really tough song to replicate and I don’t think she was the correct artist for this one.”

Fan Support and Celebration of Doja’s Courage

Despite the backlash, Doja Cat’s loyal fanbase rallied around her, praising her for taking on such a challenging and high-pressure performance. Fans flooded social media with messages of encouragement, celebrating her bravery and the unique flair she brought to the classic song. One supporter wrote, “She was frickin’ great! The entire Bond medley was powerful and awesome.” Others highlighted the fact that Doja Cat, who is primarily known for her pop-rap and experimental music style, stepped out of her comfort zone to tackle a timeless ballad—a move that many deemed both daring and commendable.

Doja Cat herself addressed the criticism directly, taking to Instagram on Monday, March 3, to share her thoughts on the experience. Posting a photo of herself in the stunning Balmain gown she wore to the Vanity Fair Oscar Party, she wrote, “Thanks to the Academy Awards and Vanity Fair for having me. I never get to sing like that and what I did was brave and scary as f— for me. I know a lot of people didn’t like it but a lot of people did and I feel good that I pushed myself. The song is a classic and I put a lot of work into it but the nerves got to me and a bitch hit some flats.” Her candid post not only acknowledged the challenges she faced but also showcased her determination and pride in the work she had done. She ended her message on a positive note, expressing her excitement to take on similar opportunities in the future.

Doja Cat’s Bold Response to Critics

Doja Cat’s Instagram post served as a powerful reminder of her unapologetic spirit and her ability to rise above negativity. Rather than shying away from the criticism, she confronted it head-on, owning both the triumphs and the imperfections of her performance. Her honesty and vulnerability resonated with fans, who admired her willingness to take risks and embrace challenges, even in the face of uncertainty. By openly admitting that she felt nervous and that her performance wasn’t flawless—she even humorously acknowledged that she “hit some flats”—Doja Cat humanized herself and highlighted the immense effort that went into her Oscars debut. Her message was clear: she wasn’t striving for perfection; she was striving for growth, and that, in itself, was something to celebrate.

The Bigger Picture: A Night of Music and Nostalgia

The James Bond medley at the Oscars was more than just a performance—it was a celebration of music’s enduring power to connect generations. By bringing together three artists with vastly different styles and backgrounds to honor the Bond franchise’s iconic soundtrack, the tribute underscored the timeless appeal of these classic songs. While Doja Cat’s performance may not have resonated with everyone, it was a bold and memorable moment in an otherwise unpredictable Oscars ceremony. Her willingness to step outside her musical comfort zone and pay homage to a legend like Shirley Bassey was, in many ways, a testament to her artistic versatility and fearlessness.

In the end, the mixed reactions to Doja Cat’s performance only highlight the subjective nature of art and music. What one person or audience hears as a misstep, another might interpret as a fresh perspective. Love it or hate it, Doja Cat’s Oscars debut will undoubtedly be remembered, not only for its musicality but also for the courage and emotion behind it. As the singer herself put it, she’s already looking forward to the next challenge—wherever her voice takes her.