Renee Rapp – Bite Me
From Broadway musical talent to bona fide pop sensation, singer-songwriter Renee Rapp brings something to the table that is rarely replicated – considering her unapologetic attitude and beyond impressive vocal abilities, it is no surprise her work has captured so much attention since her debut just two years ago. Her sophomore album, Bite Me, further proves that she is not only witty and charismatic but also profoundly vulnerable, as she is unafraid to tell the world how she truly feels.
Bite Me showcases each corner of Rapp’s personality and rests on a range of nostalgic Y2K sounds – the opener, Leave Me Alone, was the album’s lead single, and it broke the internet. Compared to her debut project, Snow Angel and its deluxe tracks, it is clear that Rapp has truly come into her own. Leave Me Alone exudes a bold, fearless and unfiltered confidence that many artists today tend to shy away from. With its unapologetic lyrics and layered, energetic production, the track perfectly complements her attitude and cements her as a distinct voice in pop.
Many moments on Bite Me mirror the strength of Leave Me Alone in their storytelling. Mad and Kiss It Kiss It, for example, proudly celebrate her sexuality, which is hinted at in Leave Me Alone, but is now explored more deeply. These starting moments mark a shift from the insecurity that underpinned much of Snow Angel, particularly regarding her journey of finding herself amidst the confines of strained relationships. Here, Rapp has never sounded more self-assured. Even on more introspective tracks like Shy, she manages to channel that confidence, showing growth and self-assuredness without losing vulnerability.
As Leave Me Alone suggested, the rest of the album also sees Rapp confronting controversy head-on. Following public scrutiny for cheating on a past partner, songs like Why Is She Still Here?, I Can’t Have You Around Me, Good Girl, and You’d Like That Wouldn’t You explore the fallout in a tongue-in-cheek yet personal way. She navigates her internal conflict with infidelity while attempting to make peace with it. She never excuses herself, but instead addresses it with the same brutal honesty that listeners adore. On You’d Like That Wouldn’t You, she even mocks her own behaviour with the line, “I swear I’ll never cheat… again.” Rather than beating around the bush, per se, Rapp dives straight into it, balancing raunchy humour with a surprising grace.
Rapp is not always sarcastic or biting, however. Sometimes is a classic breakup ballad that does not excuse her flaws, but instead offers insight into the emotional weight behind them. Her honesty is appreciated at the same level as in the album’s more provocative moments. Despite its softer tone and emotional depth, it still fits seamlessly with the record’s narrative arc. That’s So Funny continues this thread, proving that beneath the snark and spectacle, Rapp can also express herself with sincere clarity. Though her experiences are quite unique to her as a public figure, the emotional resonance of tracks like Sometimes and That’s So Funny will speak to anyone who has ever struggled with love.
With Bite Me, Renee Rapp dodges the infamous “sophomore slump” that has plagued so many artists. Whether or not her team has tried to media-train her remains a hot topic among fans, but what is clear is that the confident, controversial persona she embraces here is both exciting and refreshingly real. Rapp is not afraid of criticism, nor is she afraid to show her softer side. In the end, Bite Me is a reminder that the singer is human and that stardom has only allowed her to be her most authentic self.
Taryn Crowley
Image: Zora Sicher
Bite Me is released on 1st August 2025. For further information or to order the album, visit Renee Rapp’s website here.
Watch the video for Leave Me Alone here:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
YouTube
RSS