In case you need a refresher, the 1980s was a decade full of moral panics. One of the most prominent of these was what is now known as the Satanic Panic, and the rock music of the time was not safe from its scrutiny.

Forty years later in 2023, the internet unleashed a familiar flood of online hysteria onto singer and songwriter Doja Cat, after the release of her album “Scarlet”. Most of the conspiracy surrounded the famous lyrics to the single “Paint the Town Red”, “…she the devil”, as well as her public appearances at the time.

With that being said, it came as no surprise to me when I heard earlier this year that Doja Cat would be releasing an album heavily inspired by music and other pop culture of the 1980s. Within the months before releasing her album “Vie”, performances have left me without disappointment, and her choices in fashion have consistently blown me away.

The first appearance of Doja that I saw within this era was in May, when she wore Marc Jacobs for the Met Gala. She credits the one and only Grace Jones as one of the many inspirations for this look. With her shoulder padded leopard print suit, boxy hair, bodacious jewelry, and incredibly high heels, I found it difficult to focus on any other outfits but hers.

Then in August, I saw clips from her performance at the Outside Lands Festival, and was floored by her dedication to creating an authentic 1980s glam rockstar look. In her full zebra print set, silver studded belt, and teased long blonde wig, the stage presence was unbeatable.

And finally, just about a month ago, I watched her full performance that opened the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards with her hit single, “Jealous Type”. Her outfit might’ve been less extravagant than the previous, but the ability to hold an audience’s attention was still there. There was a classic solo from famous saxophonist Kenny G to open, infectious dance breaks throughout, amazing costumes for all performers, a key artist, and most importantly, an audience enjoying the music. I could hardly wait to listen to the album after this.

Producer and drummer Questlove described Doja Cat’s album “Vie”, as “A must for any person who loves music”, and I agree completely.

The album title is the French word for the number five, as well as the word life. Within multiple interviews, Doja Cat has said she wrote “Vie” with one question in mind: “What is life without love?”.

There’s no doubt when listening that the musician thought a lot about love when writing these songs. The lyrics are incredibly vulnerable, with some of the best vocals I’ve ever heard from the artist since being introduced to her in 2019. Even if Doja is singing about struggles in romantic relationships, there’s a catchy feel that makes you anything but sad. And isn’t that the truth for most ‘80s hits?

I’ve heard more synths in most pop songs these past few years, but that’s just a hint of what Doja Cat has done with the instrumentation in this album. Throughout all 15 songs, I couldn’t help but notice the constant presence of the saxophone, which never got old. There’s also a catchy old school bass line in “AAAHH MEN!”, a nostalgic electric guitar solo in “One More Time”, various moments for unique percussion, and yes of course, lots and lots of synth.

Nobody can replicate the exact sound that was created so long ago with the technologies of today. Still, there are tasteful ways to show appreciation and honor to music of the past, and I think Doja Cat did a great job in doing so. I’m excited to see where her career goes next, but until then, I’ll be streaming “Vie”.