The 5 Wildest Moments From Doja Cat's Wango Tango Performance That Shocked The Beach

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Doja Cat’s explosive performance at the iHeartRadio 102.7 KIIS FM Wango Tango Festival on May 10, 2025, cemented her status as one of music’s most unpredictable and electrifying live acts. The event, held at the picturesque Huntington City Beach, saw the pop-rap sensation deliver a headlining set that was part disco-chic fashion statement and part theatrical masterclass, leaving fans and critics buzzing about her stage presence and a major setlist surprise. This article breaks down the most unforgettable moments from her latest appearance, confirming why her shows are a must-see event on the global music calendar. The sheer spectacle of Doja Cat's set, from the dazzling visuals to her controversial fashion choices, dominated social media and news headlines. Her performance was a crucial moment in the rollout of her latest material, particularly as she continues to tour in support of her critically acclaimed album, *Scarlet*. The night was packed with high-energy renditions of her biggest hits, but it was the unexpected premiere of a previously unreleased track that truly defined her performance at this iconic California festival.

Doja Cat: A Brief Biography and Profile

Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, known professionally as Doja Cat, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. Born on October 21, 1995, in Los Angeles, California, she quickly rose to global fame with her genre-bending music and viral internet presence. Her career began gaining significant buzz in 2018 with the release of her debut album, *Amala*.

Her breakthrough came with the 2019 album *Hot Pink*, featuring the chart-topping hit "Say So," which later earned her a Grammy Award nomination. She solidified her superstar status with the 2021 release of *Planet Her*, which spawned massive singles like "Kiss Me More" (featuring SZA), "Woman," and "Need to Know." The album earned multiple Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year. Her 2023 album, *Scarlet*, marked a stylistic shift toward a more rap-focused, aggressive sound, showcasing her versatility and willingness to challenge expectations. Doja Cat is celebrated for her theatrical stage presence and bold, often provocative, fashion sense, making her a perennial headliner at major festivals like Wango Tango.

  • Full Name: Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini
  • Born: October 21, 1995 (Age 30 as of late 2025)
  • Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, U.S.
  • Occupation: Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer
  • Genre: Pop-Rap, R&B, Pop, Hip Hop
  • Notable Albums: *Hot Pink* (2019), *Planet Her* (2021), *Scarlet* (2023)
  • Awards: Grammy Award Winner, Multiple MTV VMAs, Billboard Music Awards

The Shocking Setlist Surprise and Live Debut of "Crack"

The biggest talking point from Doja Cat’s 2025 Wango Tango set was undoubtedly the world premiere of a song titled "Crack." This track was famously recorded during the sessions for her *Scarlet* album but was ultimately scrapped from the final release. The decision to debut an unreleased, highly anticipated track at a major festival like this was a classic Doja Cat move—unpredictable and highly effective at generating buzz.

The performance of "Crack" was an immediate hit with the crowd, with videos of the moment instantly going viral across social media platforms. Fans who had followed the development of the *Scarlet* album were thrilled to finally hear the song live, proving that even her discarded material holds significant weight in her discography. This moment solidified the Wango Tango performance as a unique, must-see event, distinct from her ongoing *Scarlet Tour* setlist.

Beyond the surprise debut, the full setlist was a high-octane mix of chart-toppers and deeper cuts, showcasing her evolution as an artist. The crowd went wild for hits from her back catalog, including "Say So," "Kiss Me More," and "Need to Know." She also gave powerful performances of her newer, rap-heavy tracks like "Demons," "Shutcho," and "ACKNOWLEDGE ME," successfully bridging the gap between her pop and hip-hop eras for the diverse Wango Tango audience.

The Dazzling "Spicy Mermaidcore" Outfit That Broke the Internet

Doja Cat is as much a fashion icon as she is a musical artist, and her Wango Tango ensemble did not disappoint. The "Paint the Town Red" singer dazzled the Huntington Beach crowd in a spectacular, cleavage-baring aqua sequinned mini dress. The look was instantly dubbed "spicy mermaidcore" by fashion commentators for its shimmering, aquatic color and bold, plunging neckline.

The outfit was a custom piece from the Spring/Summer 2024 collection by luxury design house, The Blonds. Known for their theatrical and extravagant designs, The Blonds perfectly captured Doja Cat's current aesthetic: high-fashion, playful, and slightly provocative. The ensemble featured a barely-there silhouette that maximized her stage movement and provided a vibrant, disco-chic visual that perfectly complemented the energetic festival atmosphere. The fashion choice was a testament to her commitment to high-concept visuals in every performance.

Wango Tango 2025: A Festival of Superstars and Global Acts

Doja Cat’s headlining slot was part of an all-star lineup that cemented the 2025 iHeartRadio Wango Tango as a landmark event in the music calendar. The festival, hosted by 102.7 KIIS FM, brought together a diverse range of global sensations, ensuring a wide appeal across multiple music genres.

Doja Cat shared the headlining spotlight with the legendary pop and rock icon, Gwen Stefani. The lineup also featured a spectacular mix of mainstream pop, dance, and K-Pop acts, highlighting the festival's commitment to current music trends. The inclusion of these diverse entities is a key factor in the topical authority and broad appeal of the Wango Tango brand.

  • Co-Headliners: Gwen Stefani
  • Legendary DJ: David Guetta
  • Pop Stars: Meghan Trainor
  • K-Pop Groups: KATSEYE, NMIXX, xikers
  • Emerging Acts: A2O MAY, Hearts2Hearts

The collective star power of the lineup, with Doja Cat closing out the night with her dynamic stage presence, created a memorable experience. The festival’s success underscored Doja Cat’s position not just as a hit-maker, but as a guaranteed crowd-puller capable of holding her own alongside music veterans like David Guetta and Gwen Stefani.

The Theatrical Stage Presence and Critical Acclaim

Critics and fans alike have consistently praised Doja Cat's live performances for their theatricality and energy, and the Wango Tango set was no exception. Her ability to command the stage, combining intricate choreography with powerful vocal runs and seamless transitions between rapping and singing, is a hallmark of her shows. Reviewers have often noted that her live shows transcend a typical concert, turning into a fully realized artistic spectacle.

Despite the rain warnings and other logistical challenges often faced at outdoor festivals, Doja Cat's energy remained at a peak, ensuring a highly electric atmosphere. Her engagement with the audience, coupled with the dramatic lighting and set design, contributed to a performance that many are calling one of the year's best festival sets. The commitment to her craft, evident in every squat and sweat-inducing dance move, reinforces why she is considered a generational talent in the live music space.

From the viral debut of "Crack" to the unforgettable Blonds dress, Doja Cat’s Wango Tango performance was a masterclass in modern pop-rap showmanship. It was a bold statement that she is continually evolving, always pushing boundaries, and forever ready to give her audience something fresh, unique, and utterly unforgettable.

doja cat wango tango
doja cat wango tango

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