Doechii delivered an unforgettable, star-making performance at Montreal’s Osheaga Festival, marking her highly anticipated Canadian debut with an electrifying show that showcased her unparalleled artistry and commanding stage presence. The Grammy-winning, Florida-born rapper seized the moment, solidifying her status as a formidable emerging star on the international music scene, despite the constraints of a festival closing slot.
From the moment she took the secondary Forest Stage, Doechii transported the audience into her unique “Swamp Princess” realm, with a stage intricately adorned in lush greenery and featuring an elevated platform that ensured visibility for even those in the far reaches of the packed crowd. This meticulous stagecraft, coupled with her vibrant aesthetic, created a truly immersive visual experience that complemented the sonic journey she was about to unfold.
For a dynamic hour, Doechii maintained an astounding level of energy, delivering her intricate rhymes at a rapid-fire pace with remarkable precision and minimal reliance on a backing track. Her performance was a masterclass in vocal versatility, seamlessly blending pure hip-hop flows with melodic R&B and pop hooks, proving her prowess across diverse musical genres.
Beyond her vocal acrobatics, Doechii exuded an unbridled charisma that captivated the entire audience. She effortlessly wove comedic banter into her set, showcased impressive dance and twerk moves, and even incorporated vogue poses, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of stage dynamics. Her set also paid homage to classic hip-hop, including a powerful rendition over Wu-Tang’s iconic “C.R.E.A.M.,” while also veering into a more raw, distorted sound that hinted at nu-metal influences, showcasing her expansive range.
The synergy between Doechii and her Canadian audience was palpable, with fans enthusiastically rapping along and mirroring her infectious energy throughout the performance. It was clear that the warm reception resonated deeply with the artist, who openly expressed her appreciation, highlighting the significant contrast between online negativity and the authentic connection experienced with devoted fans in a live setting.
Among the set’s many highlights were her chart-topping single “Anxiety,” a viral TikTok favorite that she skillfully integrated into her diverse catalogue, and the deeply personal “Denial Is a River.” The latter track, known for Doechii’s internal monologue-style rap, transformed into a powerful call-and-response anthem, with the crowd passionately chanting every word, underscoring the profound impact of her lyrical storytelling.
Unfortunately, the undeniable momentum of Doechii’s compelling performance was curtailed by Osheaga’s strict 11 p.m. noise curfew. This premature end left both the artist and the audience wanting more, a clear indication that her next appearance in Canada will undoubtedly necessitate a longer, headliner-worthy set to fully accommodate her expansive artistic vision and the overwhelming demand from her burgeoning fanbase.
