Lauryn Hill and Doechii perform “Doo Wop (That Thing)” in Miami

March 8 marked the return of the iconic Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival in Miami Gardens, and it did not disappoint. Headlining the first night was none other than Lauryn Hill, a living legend whose influence on music continues to reverberate through generations. Known for her powerful vocals, thought-provoking lyrics, and unmistakable presence, Lauryn took the stage and performed her classic hits, including the beloved 1998 single “Doo Wop (That Thing)“.

But this performance was made even more special with an unexpected twist: Doechii, the breakout artist of 2024, joined Lauryn Hill on stage. This collaboration was electric, marking another milestone in Doechii’s meteoric rise in the music world. With a Grammy win under her belt and a growing fan base, her appearance at the festival showcased the intersection of classic talent and emerging stars.

Lauryn Hill brought out Doechii on stage to perform “Doo Wop (that thing)” together at Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival pic.twitter.com/awizpfWs0U

— Everything Doechii (@EDoechii) March 9, 2025

Lauryn Hill’s Timeless Legacy: A Tribute to Classic Hits

Lauryn Hill’s musical journey has been nothing short of legendary. Rising to fame with The Fugees and later carving out a solo career with the groundbreaking The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, she’s known for producing soulful, introspective music that resonates with listeners across generations. Hits like “Ex-Factor,” “Everything Is Everything,” and the aforementioned “Doo Wop (That Thing)” are not just songs, but cultural anthems.

At Jazz In The Gardens, Lauryn Hill reminded fans why she remains an icon. Her performance wasn’t just about singing; it was about delivering a message. Every note, every lyric was charged with emotion. She brought the audience on a journey through her incredible catalog, leaving no doubt as to why she remains one of the most influential artists of all time.

The Magic of “Doo Wop (That Thing)”

One of the most highly anticipated moments of Lauryn Hill’s set was when she performed “Doo Wop (That Thing)”. Released in 1998, this song not only became a massive commercial hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100, but also became a voice for women’s empowerment. The track’s fusion of hip-hop, R&B, and soul with its empowering lyrics about self-respect and self-love remains relevant today.

As Lauryn sang the opening lines, the crowd erupted in cheers. But the excitement didn’t stop there. Midway through the song, Lauryn brought out a very special guest – Doechii. The moment was met with an explosion of applause, as the two artists performed the iconic track together, with Doechii adding her unique flair to the song.

Doechii: The Rising Star Takes the Stage

If you haven’t heard of Doechii yet, you will soon. The Tampa-native rapper and singer has made waves in 2024, and her Grammy win for Best Rap Album for her mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal was just the beginning. With nominations for Best New Artist and Best Rap Performance, Doechii has proven that she’s here to stay.

Her rise has been rapid, fueled by her unapologetic style and fearless approach to blending genres. She’s been recognized for her boundary-pushing lyrics and distinctive voice, which resonates with a generation that craves authenticity. Her collaboration with Lauryn Hill at the Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival was a symbolic moment, one that brought two generations of women in hip-hop together.

Doechii’s performance on stage during “Doo Wop (That Thing)” was nothing short of captivating. With Lauryn’s seasoned presence and Doechii’s youthful energy, the collaboration felt like a passing of the torch, honoring the past while embracing the future.

Doechii’s Grammy Win and Career Highlights

Before we dive into their joint performance, let’s take a moment to appreciate the incredible year Doechii is having. Her 2024 mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal is widely considered one of the best projects of the year. The mixtape has not only earned critical acclaim but also solidified Doechii as one of the brightest stars in rap.

Winning the Best Rap Album Grammy was a crowning achievement for the artist, signaling her place among the greats of today’s rap scene. Additionally, her nominations for Best New Artist and Best Rap Performance further established her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Her music explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the complexity of human emotions, drawing listeners into her world with every bar.

With her undeniable talent and diverse sound, Doechii is poised for even bigger things. Sharing the stage with Lauryn Hill at such a prestigious festival is just one chapter in her quickly rising career.

The Evolution of Jazz In The Gardens

Jazz In The Gardens has become one of the premier music festivals in Miami, attracting thousands of fans every year. The festival has grown exponentially since its inception, with a rich history of bringing together world-class performers and diverse genres. From jazz and R&B to hip-hop and soul, the festival celebrates the roots and evolution of African-American music, creating a unique and inclusive space for music lovers of all kinds.

The festival’s ability to blend old-school legends with contemporary artists is what makes it so special. Lauryn Hill’s headlining performance and Doechii’s special appearance are perfect examples of how the festival continues to honor the past while embracing the future of music. Each year, the event brings together music icons and emerging stars, giving fans the opportunity to witness incredible collaborations.

What the Collaboration Between Lauryn Hill and Doechii Means for Hip-Hop

The partnership between Lauryn Hill and Doechii at the Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival speaks volumes about the evolution of hip-hop and women in the genre. Lauryn Hill, one of the most influential women in hip-hop and R&B history, has always used her platform to discuss issues of race, gender, and identity. Doechii, on the other hand, represents the new wave of female rappers who are redefining the genre with their own voice, style, and perspective.

Their collaboration on “Doo Wop (That Thing)” was a celebration of not just their musical talents, but their shared ability to speak truth to power. The performance was symbolic of the ongoing empowerment of women in hip-hop, and it’s exciting to think about what future collaborations might look like between these two powerful women.

What’s Next for Doechii?

With her Grammy win and an increasing presence in the mainstream, Doechii is on track to be a dominant figure in the music industry for years to come. Her ability to seamlessly blend different genres, create impactful lyrics, and deliver high-energy performances is helping to redefine what it means to be an artist in today’s music landscape.

As she continues to grow and evolve as an artist, fans are eagerly awaiting her next project. Whether she’s collaborating with other stars or carving out her own unique sound, Doechii is destined to leave a lasting impact on hip-hop and beyond.

Conclusion: A Night to Remember at Jazz In The Gardens

The Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival on March 9, 2025, was a night to remember, filled with unforgettable performances and historic moments. Lauryn Hill proved why she is a timeless force in the music world, while Doechii’s meteoric rise continues to captivate audiences everywhere. Their performance together highlighted the powerful intersection of old-school wisdom and new-school innovation, reminding us all of the power of music to bring people together across generations.

As the festival continues to grow in significance, we can expect more legendary moments like this one, where the past and present of music come together to create something magical. Whether you were there in person or following the event from afar, this collaboration between Lauryn Hill and Doechii will go down in history as a shining moment for women in music, hip-hop, and the Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival itself.