Today we’d like to introduce you to Doll McCoy.
Hi Doll, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m Doll McCoy, a singer and songwriter born and raised in Memphis, TN. Music has always been my first love—it runs deep in my blood. My great-grandfather, grandmother, and father were all singers, so it was only natural that I’d follow in their footsteps. While other kids played outside, I’d be inside directing my imaginary choir and spinning vinyl records on my parents’ long, wooden stereo console.
My musical foundation was built in the church, singing and directing the choir at Greater Mt. Moriah Baptist Church under the guidance of my grandmother, Narine Edwards, with Dr. J.L. Payne as pastor. I performed my first solo at the age of six, and from that moment, I knew music was my calling.
As a student at Ridgeway Junior and Senior High School, I studied classical and jazz music and learned to sight-read under the incredible Dr. Jeffrey Brewer. It was during this time I met my lifelong sisters: Joy Okoth Freeman, Sequoia Gray, and Britne’ Brown Lauderdale. In 2004, we formed our a cappella group, ADAJYO. With my mom, Valarie McCoy, as our manager, we performed throughout Memphis and surrounding areas, building a loyal fan base.
In 2011, I moved to Los Angeles with my friend Alayna Rogers (of GAWD) to challenge myself and grow as an artist. Soon after, Brittany Moore joined us, and together—almost by accident—we formed a new group called Tha Group. We even went viral a few times (yes, for real!). While in LA, I had the incredible opportunity to work with artists such as Raphael Saadiq, Leona Lewis, and Rhona Bennett.
In 2015, I joined the B.B. King Blues Club as a lead singer, performing aboard Holland America Cruise Lines and traveling the world until 2018. After returning home to Memphis, I began curating my own live show, Doll’s Playlist, and have continued creating music—both solo and with ADAJYO and other collaborators.
In addition to my music career, I’m an entrepreneur at heart. I own Studio14 Beauty Bar, a lash studio, and Denise Eugene’s, a catering company. I’m passionate about using all I’ve learned to uplift others, share stories through song, and keep building a legacy rooted in love, soul, and creativity.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all! Anything worth having comes with a fight—and a lot of discipline. There have been moments when I wanted to give up… and honestly, moments when I actually did. Chasing a dream isn’t easy.
Coming from Memphis, where the audiences are real and the standards are high, being able to succeed here means something. I’ve always respected that. I love and admire my peers—many of us came up in the church, and you can hear that in their voices. That natural church grit—they can really SANG!
People say I can sang too (lol!), and I definitely have the soul. But I know my voice is smoother, more laid-back. For a while, I struggled with that. I had to train myself not to compare my gift to anyone else’s. I had to grow into the understanding that it’s okay to be different. There’s a lane just for me—if I trust God and fully embrace what He gave me.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m best known for my smooth, laid-back vocal style. For me, it’s all about creating a specific energy in the room—a kind of escape for everyday, hard-working people. That intention really began with my group, Adajyo, where we sang a cappella. Performing without instruments and still being able to move hearts and touch souls is a challenge—but it’s one that taught me the true power of the voice.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I love listening to sermons from some of my favorite pastors. Dr. Kia Conerway, Pastor Brandon Clack,Dr. Zedrick Clayton, and Pastor Keith Norman to name a few. I pray and randomly pick a sermon. And, it’s always something I need for myself, or something I can use to help and motivate others around me. I do want to get more into some Podcasts. So,if you’re reading this,send me some! Lol
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dollmccoy?igsh=NGNvajM4c2JoZm1q&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/12Lxu32wzdP/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dollmccoy?si=vGu-4I0ARBiiOcQX
