Bebe Rexha has marked a significant turning point in her career with the release of her latest album, ‘Dirty Blonde’. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the artist expressed immense pride in her ability to persevere through her struggles, particularly after leaving her long-time record label in 2025 to pursue a path as an independent artist. This decision has allowed her to reclaim creative control over her music and image.
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Reflecting on her past experiences, the 36-year-old musician explained how her previous arrangement had left her feeling trapped creatively. “After years of feeling like I had no power, it was very hard for me to tap into the real feelings. I kind of numbed myself out,” Rexha shared. She lamented losing “some of the best years” of her life due to the pressures of her past contract. Now, she embraces the freedom that independence brings, stating, “I felt free” during the creation of her new album, which features 13 tracks that blend various personal themes with her dance-pop roots.
Rexha’s musical journey began with writing chart-topping hits for well-known artists such as Eminem and Rihanna. Her solo career blossomed with the release of her debut album in 2014, leading to genre-crossing successes, including her hit collaboration “Meant to Be” with Florida Georgia Line and the upbeat anthem “I’m Good (Blue)” alongside David Guetta. Yet, she admits to feeling insecure about her diverse musical style, saying, “I always felt kind of insecure about the fact that I did have songs like ‘Meant to Be’ or dance songs with Guetta.” With ‘Dirty Blonde’, however, she has embraced that diversity, allowing herself the freedom to explore her creative impulses.
Growing up on Staten Island in an Albanian household, Rexha was exposed to a wide variety of musical influences, which shaped her eclectic sound. “Growing up with a certain type of pop star, which I loved, I always felt like I didn’t fit the mould,” she noted. The new album reflects this journey of self-discovery, incorporating both high-energy dance tracks like “Tokyo” and more introspective, acoustic numbers such as “Drink and a Little Love”.
The lyrics of ‘Dirty Blonde’ delve into Rexha’s personal experiences, from her challenges with major label systems to reflections on past romantic relationships. Songs like “Time” and “Required Love” reveal the emotional depth that she has sought to capture. “Throughout this process of finding the right team, I was like, ‘I think I’m ready to go in a little bit deeper,’” she explained, emphasizing her desire to reconnect with her emotions and express her truth through her music.
Unlike many of her contemporaries, Rexha has cultivated an authentic persona, openly addressing issues related to body image and mental health in her music and social media presence. She candidly shared, “I’ve had ups, I’ve had downs; I’ve been skinnier, I’ve been fatter.” For Rexha, the focus extends beyond physical appearance to how she feels internally, stating confidently, “I’m way happier” in the present moment.
In a marketplace often dominated by polished personas, Rexha understands that not fitting the stereotype of a flawless pop star is part of her charm. “There’s different kinds of pop stars — untouchable and relatable,” she remarked. Preferring to resonate with her audience through vulnerability and honesty, she has chosen the latter path. This choice has only reinforced her commitment to authenticity as she moves forward as an independent artist.
The journey to independence was not without its hurdles. Before striking out on her own, Rexha faced rejection from major labels for what she describes as “the craziest reasons,” including being deemed “too old.” However, her resolve to continue pursuing her passion led her through these setbacks. “I could have easily just stopped. I’m most proud of not giving up,” she concluded.
With the launch of ‘Dirty Blonde’, Bebe Rexha is fully embracing her status as an independent woman and artist. The album is not just a reflection of her musical evolution but also a testament to her resilience and determination in an industry that can often feel unrelenting. For fans eager to learn more about this inspiring artist and her latest work, the latest issue of PEOPLE is now available on newsstands across the UK.