Bebe Rexha embraces a new chapter as she releases her latest single, “New Religion,” a high-energy track in collaboration with the iconic English dance band Faithless. This effort is part of her upcoming visual album, *Dirty Blonde*, marking Rexha’s first project as an independent artist, in association with EMPIRE Distribution. Released on 6 March, “New Religion” not only samples Faithless’s classic hit “Insomnia” but also incorporates elements of the original production, with the approval of Faithless members Rollo, Sister Bliss, and the late Maxi Jazz.
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In a recent interview with *PEOPLE*, Rexha expressed her excitement about this new creative phase and the sense of freedom that comes with being an independent artist. At 36, the Grammy-nominated star shared that she feels more fulfilled than ever, stating, “I see the light on the other side of the tunnel. I’m happier than I’ve ever been.” This change comes after a period filled with uncertainty, which led her to seek out collaborators who genuinely support her artistry.
Reflecting on the relationship between her new single and Faithless’s cherished music, Rexha revealed a personal connection to the timeless classic. She recounted how her uncle introduced her to “Insomnia” during her childhood in New York City. As a young listener, she never realised the song’s franchise but grew to appreciate its significance in dance music culture. “It was such an incredibly massive song, and in the dance community, such a f—ing banger,” she said. The idea to rework the track emerged serendipitously during studio sessions, as the phrase “new religion” became intertwined with her creative vision.
Obtaining permission to use Faithless’s original sounds proved challenging, with Rexha noting that it took considerable effort to receive their blessing. “It’s been about 30 years, and they’ve never properly allowed somebody to sample it,” she explained. The intricacies involved in accessing the desired analogue recordings added a layer of complexity, yet Rexha persevered, demonstrating her commitment to authentic music production.
As the third single from *Dirty Blonde*, “New Religion” follows earlier releases “I Like You Better Than Me” and “Çike Çike.” The artist has innovatively engaged her fans by allowing them to vote on the release order of the tracks. Rexha commented on the enthusiastic reception of her new music, saying, “They love it. They’re excited.” Despite feeling “bullied” into releasing “New Religion” next, she remains eager to share other songs that are close to her heart.
A unique aspect of Rexha’s creative process is her willingness to adapt based on fan feedback. She acknowledged that her previous project lacked song bridges, a choice that elicited considerable commentary from her audience. Recognising the importance of bridges in her successful hits, she decided to include one in “New Religion,” leading to a viral moment in the song’s snippet shared online. “Guess the fans know something, right?” she reflected, recognizing the value of her supporters’ insights.
Harking back to her roots, Rexha also incorporated Albanian lyrics into the song “Çike Çike,” showcasing her heritage for the very first time. For her, this was more than just a creative decision; it metaphorically connected her music to her upbringing. “It’s really important for artists… just trying to become more authentically myself every day,” she expressed, hinting at the desire to move beyond prior constraints and embrace her cultural identity.
When asked about the inspiration behind the album title *Dirty Blonde*, Rexha explained that it serves as a symbol of her unapologetic persona. The term encapsulates her journey from feeling restricted within the industry to embracing her true self. “When I finally went independent, I was like, ‘I want to be unapologetically myself,’” she revealed. This newfound freedom has energized her creativity and allowed her to work alongside a supportive team, reinforcing her determination to stay genuine to her artistry.
As Rexha gears up for the release of *Dirty Blonde*, her path as an independent artist showcases not just personal growth but also a renewed connection to her fans and music. By reclaiming her narrative and sharing her story, Rexha illustrates the power of self-discovery amidst the evolving landscape of the music industry, all while celebrating her distinctive sound and identity.