Artist Introduction
What’s your stage name and where are you from?
Doza. Los Angeles, CA
What’s the story behind your stage name?
My last name is Mendoza and everyone in high school used to just call me that. Eventually it got shortened to “Doza” and when I was thinking of a stage name I realized it was in front of me this entire time.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
From the days of rapping my favorite Westside Connection song to my mom at 8, my early passion for hip hop was a fun, natural part of my life. Though influenced by my parents’ and cousins’ diverse musical preferences, I discovered a deep connection to rap, leading me to pursue it seriously. My journey has been about blending my Filipino heritage with the West Coast hip hop culture I grew up in, crafting a sound that speaks to my unique experiences.
Fan Engagement
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
I wrote the verses first so when it came to the hook section I didn’t really have too many ideas. Then I thought about what I want to accomplish with this track which was to connect back with my hip hop roots.. So I got the idea of sampling old my older records in the hook similar to some of my favorite hip hop records and as a metaphor for bridging the gap between the old Doza era and this new Doza era. I think it was a good choice.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
That Filipinos got something to say and thats all imma say
Behind the Music
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
I feel a lot of artists can relate to this problem when I say that you just don’t know when a song is done. You always think in the back of your head “Should I add something here?” or “Maybe I stack this vocal” or “I should re record that.” As a perfectionist and someone sensitive about their art you want to nitpick everything but I’ve learned over time how to just let it go and move onto the next thing. It’s still tough but I’m getting better at it.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
Eminem. I hold him in such a high regard as an emcee and of course it’d be a dream to be on a track with one of the GOATs. But there’s also a competitive reason too. I want to prove to myself that I can hold my own on a track with him and not get outshined.
Future Aspirations
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
Hopefully to bigger stages to perform on and collaborations with artists I admire.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
I’m ready for a festival spot. Look closely at that Coachella bill in the next coming years.
Recent Work & Contact Info
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
Please check my website www.dozaleprince.com for all the newest tracks and updates.
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
Please feel free to DM me on IG @dozaleprince or email Doza@dozaleprince.com if you ever want to contact me. I will read it.
