Reading Time: 2 min read

3.5 out of 5 stars

Bebe Rexha, Expectations © Warner Bros.Following a ‘slow but steady’ rise to pop success, Bebe Rexha drops single “Ferrari” in advance of her full-length, debut album, ‘Expectations.’

For rising pop star Bebe Rexha, it’s been a long time coming – years at this point.  Finally, following the massive success of single “Meant to Be”with Florida Georgia Line, her time seems to have finally come.  Her first full-length album, Expectations, arrives June 22.  “Ferrari,” in addition to the aforementioned “Meant to Be,” is among advanced singles.

“Ferrari” commences with a unique guitar riff.  Bebe Rexha shows poise on the first verse.  Even so, her distinct tone still shines through.  She rises to the occasion on the chorus, with truly assertive, powerful vocals.  This is where she’s at her most dangerous – she’s got quite an instrument on her to say the least!  In addition to her commanding performance on the chorus, the backdrop itself is turned-up. The chorus is characterized by its rock influence, with guitars and hard drums – it’s incredibly dynamic.

Beyond the chorus, there’s also a post-chorus section, which is particularly popular in pop music as of late.  It’s more instrumental and limited lyrically but is filled with energy.  The second verse comes back down following the fever pitch but is more developed than the first.  Bebe Rexha lets loose a bit more, while percussively, there’s the addition of an urban-pop beat.  By the chorus, Rexha is on autopilot.


Final Thoughts 

Following up a gem (“Meant to Be”) is an arduous task.  Does “Ferrari” live up to the juggernaut? Not quite, but the attitude, energy, and the voice go along way for Bebe Rexha.  “Ferrari” is enjoyable to say the least, but maybe not necessarily the next number one single on Billboard Hot 100.


Bebe Rexha • Expectations • Warner Bros. • Release: 6.22.18

Writers: Asia Whitacre, Bleta Rexha & Jason Evigan « Producer: Jason Evigan

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

 

 


the musical hype

the musical hype (Brent Faulkner) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.