Grammy-nominated pop artist Bebe Rexha returns with a ‘short, but pretty sweet’ new single, “Last Hurrah,” her first new single of 2019. 

Bebe Rexha, after years in the game, finally released her full-length debut album, Expectations in 2018.  The album had some success, but it was by no means a commercial home run.  Furthermore, the biggest single appearing on the album (“Meant to Be” featuring Florida Georgia Line) had previously appeared on a EP.  But this isn’t about Expectations, but rather the Grammy-nominated pop artist’s first new single of 2019, “Last Hurrah.”

“Last Hurrah” truly only whets the listener’s palate.  Why? Well, it’s hella brief, only clocking in at two-and-a-half minutes. “Last Hurrah” opens with distorted, old-school electric guitar.  This ends up being a respectable, attention-grabbing intro, so that’s a win for Bebe.  Another win? As always, Rexha delivers solid vocals – she never overindulges or reaches beyond her grasp.  Also working in her favor, there are some notable lyrics with some feistiness and attitude. On the first verse, she’s done with everything – drinking, smoking, playing, joking, ladies, fellas… The second verse is similar, though more developed (in regard to production and pacing). The chorus represents the best moment of the record. Here, compared to the first verse, and even the second,  the production is fuller, while the vocals are definitely ‘on-point.’

“This is my last hurrah, once I start

I ain’t gonna stop ‘til I go too far

Last hurrah and it’s okay

Maybe tomorrow I won’t feel this pain

Last hurrah

Last hurrah.”

Some other notes.  I heart the incredibly rhythmic beat that anchors the chorus down – that’s #winning.  The form is pretty straightforward – nothing wrong with good old verse / chorus / verse / chorus / bridge / chorus.  Returning to the crowning achievement of “Last Hurrah” (the chorus), I like the fact that Rexha takes the final iteration up an octave, blended with the previously heard version.

Final Thoughts 

Hopefully, “Last Hurrah” isn’t truly ‘the last hurrah’ for the talented, underrated Bebe Rexha.  No, this single won’t change your life, but it’s another respectable, worthwhile offering from a pop artist still trying to get her footing in a crowded pop marketplace.  It’s hard to see “Last Hurrah” match the performance of “Meant to Be,” but there’s definitely some magic here.

Bebe Rexha • Last Hurrah [Single] • Warner Bros. • Release: 2.15.19

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.