Review: Bebe Rexha's 'Dirty Blonde' Album - A Safe but Uninspired Debut as an Independent Artist
Bebe Rexha's latest album, Dirty Blonde, marks her debut as an independent artist following her departure from Warner. The lead single, "New Religion," topped the Billboard Dance/Mix Show Airplay chart, showcasing Rexha's vulnerability and resilience after being dropped by her longtime label. While the album leans heavily into dance-pop, it lacks the authenticity and experimentation that could have set it apart.
Rexha's strength lies in her confessional lyrics and emotional depth, qualities that have distinguished her from other pop artists. However, Dirty Blonde plays it safe with familiar EDM production and lacks the cohesion and innovation that could have elevated it to new heights. Despite a few standout tracks like "I Like You Better Than Me," the album falls short of showcasing Rexha's full musical range.
The decision to return to a dance-oriented sound may have been a strategic move for commercial success, but it feels like a missed opportunity for Rexha to explore new musical territories. While collaborations with artists like Dolly Parton and David Guetta add variety to the album, they don't fully showcase Rexha's potential as an independent artist. The closing track, "Sad Girls," featuring Guetta, captures Rexha's ability to blend pain and joy in a catchy tune but falls short of making a lasting impact.
Overall, Dirty Blonde reflects Rexha's struggle to break free from the constraints of mainstream music culture while navigating the challenges of being an independent artist. Despite her undeniable talent and emotional depth, the album fails to deliver a cohesive and compelling narrative that fully showcases Rexha's artistry. As she continues to evolve as an artist, fans can only hope for a more authentic and innovative approach in her future releases.