By Britne Goldstein
Released on August 1, 2025, Bite Me is Reneé Rapp’s bold queer pop‐rock statement. Inspired by icons like Joan Jett and Alanis Morissette, the record blends big attitude with theatrical vocals and punchy production.
The reaction to Bite Me has been very opinionated so far, much like Reneé herself. The Times called her “the Joan Jett of modern pop” and gave it four stars. Billboard described it as “loud, unapologetic, and messy in the best way”, while Rolling Stone called it as “a wild celebration of sex, heartbreak, and defiance.” Some reviewers found it played things a little too safe at times, but overall, it’s been received as a confident next step for Rapp.
Outside of music, Rapp has been gaining attention as a global ambassador for L’Oréal Paris and as Grand Marshal of World Pride DC 2025. Her presence is only growing, and with the Bite Me Tour kicking off September 23 at Red Rocks, she’s clearly ready to take this raw, loud era on the road.
Track by Track First Impressions
- Leave Me Alone – The lead single I’ve been jamming to for months. A loud, bratty banger where Reneé shuts it all down and just wants to party. Instant attitude, zero apologies.
- Mad – Sexy, bitter, and a little unhinged. She’s mad, she’s over it, and she still wants to hook up.
- Why Is She Still Here? – Jealousy never sounded this smooth. A sad, jazzy meltdown over an ex who won’t disappear.
- Sometimes – Soft, stripped back, and super emotional. Reneé shows off her vocals and gets super vulnerable.
- Kiss It Kiss It – A playful, disco-flavored bop with flirty lyrics and major bedroom energy.
- Good Girl – Big ‘80s power ballad vibes. She’s trying to be good but it’s just not working out.
- I Can’t Have You Around Me Anymore – Mid-tempo and moody. The emotional detox anthem we all need.
- Shy – Sweet, tender, and totally smitten. A cute love song that feels like a soft exhale.
- At Least I’m Hot – Spiteful, funny, and super confident, with additional vocals by Towa Bird. Even when everything’s falling apart, at least she looks good.
10. I Think I Like You Better When You’re Gone – Chill breakup energy. The vibe is calm, but the shade is real.
11. That’s So Funny – A clever, savage takedown of a fake friend. It’s petty, it’s catchy, it’s perfect.
12. You’d Like That Wouldn’t You – A gritty, grungy closer that leaves a mark. Total mic-drop energy.
Bite Me is a cheeky, emotionally charged sophomore album that shows Reneé Rapp growing into a pop rebel with big heart. It dips into both hard core rock‐pop and vulnerable ballads. For queer pop fans and anyone craving authenticity wrapped in catchy hooks, this album is worth playing on repeat.
