Doja Cat is making it clear that her art follows her rules—and only her rules. On September 21, she appeared on “CBS Sunday Morning” and reflected on how her generation of musicians is redefining what it means to be an artist. She described a freedom that allows experimentation without apology.

“Coming out of the ’90s, there was a hope for the future and artists were doing everything and playing a lot with irony,” she said. She pointed to rappers wearing skirts and dresses as examples of exploring identity beyond expectation. She went on to express that this freedom, inspired by artists like Prince, shaped her own approach to music. “Embracing parts of yourself that you know are real and true without being apologetic. I feel like there are no barriers.”

She laughed when asked which genre her music doesn’t reflect. “Country. I think I’m a rapper that makes pop music,” she said. Her upcoming album, "Vie," leans back into pop and revisits the energy of earlier hits, such as “Say So.” Her 2023 album, "Scarlet," had a distinctly different energy, showcasing her range across rap and R&B. She wants to focus on what feels natural to her now. The “Agora Hills” rapper explained that "Vie" gave her a chance to appreciate her older music in a new way.

Her vision extends beyond music. She unveiled the new album cover on Instagram and received mixed feedback. The image shows her in a tattered wedding dress suspended from a yellow parachute caught in a tree. She said it represents curiosity, adventure, and love. When people criticized the artwork, she responded on X: “You can’t make me feel bad for a cover that has visceral meaning. I forgive your harsh criticism but for me I won yet again for following my heart.”

Doja Cat’s approach to her art reflects her confidence, and Vie" is a statement of her independence, her vision, and her refusal to let outside opinions dictate her creativity. The album is scheduled for release on September 26.