Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 31, 2025 · Entertainment

Reneé Rapp's 'Bite Me': A Pop Powerhouse Challenges the Big Names

Mean girl: Renee Rapp played Regina George in Tina Fey's Broadway musical. Now, with the release of her second album, she shows she can mix it with the best of today's young stars

POP SCOOP: THE LATEST ON RENÉE RAPP, MADONNA, AND MORE!

Get ready for a dose of drama, romance, and chart-topping tunes as we dish out the latest scoop on Reneé Rapp's explosive new album "Bite Me," Madonna's long-awaited companion to "Ray Of Light," and more!

RENEÉ RAPP: THE POP STAR YOU NEED TO KNOW

Rapp at Reading: Renee performing on the third day of the festival last August

In a sea of talented singer-songwriters vying for attention, 25-year-old Reneé Rapp is making waves with her debut UK tour and second album "Bite Me." This North Carolina native got her start in musical theater and has since built a devoted fan base by sharing her music online. But don't let her wholesome persona fool you – Rapp's lyrics are as sassy as they are sensitive, echoing the playful style of Billie Eilish and Sabrina Carpenter.

With hits like "Leave Me Alone" and "Kiss It Kiss It," Rapp's pop sensibilities are on full display. But beneath the catchy hooks and grunge guitars lies a more vulnerable side – one that showcases her impressive vocal range and emotional depth. In tracks like "Mad" and "Why Is She Still Here?," Rapp tackles love triangles, heartbreak, and identity with unflinching honesty.

But what really sets Rapp apart is her fearless attitude and willingness to speak her mind. As she confesses on "Shy," even the most confident pop stars can be intimidated by romance – especially when it involves a same-sex relationship (she's currently dating British musician Towa Bird). Don't miss Rapp's upcoming tour dates, including stops at Manchester's AO Arena and Wembley Arena!

Ray of Light: Madonna performs her hit single during the 1988 MTV Music Awards.

MADONNA: THE QUEEN OF POP GETS HER COMEBACK

After years of revisiting her iconic back catalog, Madonna is finally releasing the companion album to "Ray Of Light" that was meant to be – 27 years later! "Veronica Electronica" features remixes by top DJs like Sasha and Victor Calderone, as well as a previously unheard track in the Ray Of Light out-take "Gone, Gone, Gone." But don't expect anything revolutionary – almost every song on this album has been released before.

Still, die-hard fans will appreciate the nostalgic value and attention to detail. The title track, with its soaring synths and Madonna's emotive vocals, is a haunting tribute to her own Catholic upbringing and artistic awakening. Meanwhile, "Frozen" gets an atmospheric makeover courtesy of William Orbit, adding new textures to this timeless ballad.

AND THE REST...

While Rapp and Madonna are getting all the attention, there are plenty more exciting releases worth checking out. Dennis Bovell, a reggae legend in his own right, revisits classic hits like "Silly Games" and "Pass The Dutchie" with his latest album "Wise Music In Dub." With guest singers putting their own spin on these iconic tracks, it's an eclectic spirit that recalls the Labour Of Love series.

Bruce Dickinson, Iron Maiden frontman extraordinaire, is revisiting his underrated solo album "More Balls To Picasso" – and this time, he means business. Beefing up the arrangements with indigenous drums and orchestral strings, Dickinson proves himself a master of big-budget rock opera.

And last but not least, Morgan Wade, a country-pop sensation from Virginia, returns with another batch of heartland anthems and sassy ballads on "The Party Is Over." With her battle between Bible and bottle ("East Coast") and heartfelt pining for motherhood ("Hardwood Floor"), Wade's got the authenticity and emotional range to make even the most hardened critics take notice.

Last but certainly not least, Jade Bird, a rising country-pop star from Northumberland, is pouring her heart out on "Who Wants To Talk About Love." Written during a tumultuous breakup with fellow musician Luke Prosser, Bird balances heartache with a yearning for clarity ("Nobody") and sun-kissed Californian vibes ("Dreams"). With producer Andrew Wells at the helm, this one's shaping up to be one of 2024's most compelling country-pop releases.

CHECK OUT THESE NEW RELEASES NOW!

Get your hands on Reneé Rapp's "Bite Me" and Madonna's "Veronica Electronica," as well as Dennis Bovell's "Wise Music In Dub," Bruce Dickinson's revised "More Balls To Picasso," Morgan Wade's "The Party Is Over," and Jade Bird's "Who Wants To Talk About Love" – all out now on various platforms!

Sources:

  • Reneé Rapp: Polydor
  • Madonna: Warner
  • Dennis Bovell: Wise Music
  • Bruce Dickinson: BMG
  • Morgan Wade: Sony
  • Jade Bird: Glassnote

This article is brought to you by The Scholarly Note (thescholarlynote.com).