For this week’s run, I queued up Doja Cat’s Vie. She’s always been a shapeshifter, able to balance sharp rap verses, catchy pop hooks, and playful eccentricities. This album leans into synth-heavy retro pop and minimal ballads, reflecting the music she’s said she’s wanted to make all along. I’ll be honest: as a treadmill soundtrack, it’s uneven. Some songs gave me bursts of energy, while others drifted into the background. It’s not my favourite Doja Cat album, but there’s undeniable confidence here, and you can hear that she’s unapologetically chasing her own vision.
Cards
The opener sets a steady pace with pulsing synths and crisp percussion. It’s not explosive, but it lays down a solid foundation. On the treadmill, it felt like easing into a rhythm; predictable, but functional. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s solid pop craftsmanship that holds its weight in the album.
Jealous Type
The lead single and one of the record’s most polished cuts. Jack Antonoff’s production shines here; tight percussion, glittery synths, and a hook that sticks on the first listen. Doja Cat slides between rap-like phrasing and airy vocals effortlessly. It’s safe, maybe too safe, but undeniably effective.
AAAHH MEN!
A restrained track that plays with space and subtle percussion. It’s more interesting on headphones than mid-run, offering texture without momentum.
CouplesTherapy
Minimalist, conversational, and reflective.There’s an intimacy to the track, but it feels underdeveloped, almost like a demo left intentionally sparse. As part of the album, it adds tonal variety, but in real time it barely registered.
Gorgeous
The first real burst of energy. A soaring chorus, layered harmonies, and cinematic production made me pick up my pace. This is one of the album’s highlights, polished without feeling sterile.
Stranger
Atmospheric and moody, with soft synths and reflective lyrics. It’s stylish, but static; it didn’t push me forward on the treadmill, though I appreciated the texture. I can see this one growing on me.
All Mine
Confident and deliberate, with assertive vocals and steady percussion. It’s solid mid-album material, giving me a second wind without overwhelming energy.
Take Me Dancing (feat. SZA)
A smoother, groovier track. SZA’s feature adds warmth, and the melody is easy to sway along to. I wanted a bit more drive here, but it’s charming and playful.
Lipstain
Sultry and smoky, slow in tempo. It’s stylish, but the energy dips, and I found myself waiting for the next track. Its restraint makes it interesting as a listen, but not treadmill fuel.
Silly! Fun!
True to its title, it’s playful and light. The bounce in the percussion and cheeky delivery made me smile mid-run, even if it doesn’t land as a standout song.
Acts of Service
Slower and more introspective, but the lyrics and layered synths give it weight. I appreciated it more after multiple listens, though it doesn’t energize a run.
Make It Up
Finally, some drive returns. Crisp beats and fuller arrangements sync with my rhythm. Doja’s phrasing here is animated and confident, and it was one of the few tracks that pushed me to run harder.
One More Time
A nostalgic, soft ballad with pretty chord progressions. The chorus doesn’t soar, and I kept waiting for a hook that never arrives. It’s tender, but underdeveloped for the pace I wanted.
Happy
Bright and upbeat, bordering on kitsch. It gave me a brief jolt of energy in my run, but it’s more fun than enduring. A short-lived lift rather than a highlight.
Come Back
The closer wraps the album with lush synths and a steady build. It doesn’t explode, but it resolves the record neatly. It’s fitting for the end of a treadmill session—calm and reflective rather than triumphant.
Final Thoughts
Running to Vie was a mixed experience. Tracks like “Gorgeous,” “Make It Up,” and “Jealous Type” gave me energy, while “Stranger,” “Lipstain,” and “Couples Therapy” felt static. The album alternates between glossy pop, minimal ballads, and playful detours, but the flow often feels scattered.
It’s not my favourite Doja Cat project, too many songs drift without landing. But there’s a clear intention here. She’s made the music she’s wanted to make for herself, and that conviction is audible in every beat and vocal choice.
Vie may not have been the most exciting run (maybe the longest 6 miles has felt in a while), but it’s an album that shows Doja Cat unapologetically claiming her lane. Sometimes, making the truest album matters more than making the catchiest one.
