Doechii, the rising star known as “Swamp Princess,” has officially claimed her Grammy title.

The Tampa, Florida-based hip-hop artist was honored with the best rap album award during the 67th Grammy Awards this past Sunday. She becomes only the third woman in the history of the Grammys to win this category, following in the esteemed footsteps of Lauryn Hill in 1997 and Cardi B in 2019.

“I invested my heart and soul into this mixtape,” an emotional Doechii said as she accepted the award from Cardi B. “I opened up my life for this. I have faced numerous challenges. I made the decision to stay sober, and God assured me that I would be rewarded by revealing the beauty of life.”

Born Jaylah Hickmon, Doechii paid tribute to her Black roots during her touching acceptance speech, delivering an uplifting message to other Black women.

“You can accomplish anything. The opportunities are endless,” Doechii declared. “Don’t allow anyone to box you in with stereotypes.” Her inspiring words resonated with Gayle King, who was seen cheering her on from the audience.

Later in the ceremony, Doechii energized the Grammys stage with an engaging performance of “Catfish” and “Denial is a River,” the latter of which had climbed to No. 10 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Her act was enhanced by impressive dance moves and a quick costume change, leaving the crowd amazed.

After her performance, Doechii shared backstage her feelings about the win, saying it “feels incredible” and is “bigger than myself,” adding, “Art prevails. Authenticity prevails. Vulnerability wins.”

Talking about her stage presence, she noted: “It was essential for me to highlight my skills tonight. I integrated elements from Broadway, dance, theater, and art, and I believe I showcased that.”

Her 2024 mixtape “Alligator Bites Never Heal,” which earned her this prestigious Grammy, features a variety of lyrical styles, balancing modern R&B hits (“Slide”), thought-provoking “real hip-hop” moments (delved into in “Boom Bap”), and assertive rap tracks (“Nissan Altima,” “Catfish”).

Known for her hit “What It Is (Block Boy),” Doechii has garnered considerable support on her journey to stardom. Kendrick Lamar, her former colleague at Top Dawg Entertainment, acknowledged her talent, calling her “the hardest out” at the release of her recent project.

In 2023, she joined forces with both Beyoncé on her record-setting Renaissance World Tour and Doja Cat on her Scarlet Tour.

Doechii Releases New Single ‘Nosebleeds’

To celebrate her Grammy win, Doechii is dropping new music.

Late Sunday, the rapper unveiled her latest single “Nosebleeds.” This empowering track features Doechii thanking her fans and addressing speculation surrounding her nominations.

Doechii co-wrote the song with producer Jonas Jeberg, and it was produced under the guidance of executive producers Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith and Anthony “Moosa” Tiffith Jr.

(This story has been updated to include the latest information.)

Contributors: Taijuan Moorman, Kelly Lawler, and Melissa Ruggieri,