Bebe Rexha

Career history

Releases debut album Expectations, earns two Grammy nominations and later performs at the ceremony. Launches Women In Harmony

“Being nominated for two Grammys was a dream come true. I celebrated with my family when they announced my name live on TV.”

Releases her first EP and is featured on numerous chart-dominating collaborations

“I was nervous because I was putting a little piece of myself out into the world for people to judge, but I was also super-excited as I was proud of the music I had made and where I was at creatively. Pt 1 is my favourite of the two All Your Fault EPs that I released. I couldn’t choose a favourite collaboration or collaborator – they have all been great for different reasons.”

Joins Fall Out Boy bassist Pete Wentz’s new project, Black Cards, as a singer

“I loved working with Pete, and being in the Black Cards taught me a lot. It was a fun and exciting time. I’ve actually been working with Pete on something new, so keep an eye out for that.”

Works on the perfume counter, Saks Fifth Avenue

“I was 17 years old when I started working in Saks selling high-end perfume. I remember one day Rihanna came in. She was so glamorous – amazing make-up, lipstick, hair. She just looked like a million dollars.”

Begins work on her second album

Plans to set up her own record label next year when she’s finished touring.

Hosts the MTV Europe Music Awards

“I was really shocked to be asked. One piece of advice I would give to anyone else presenting an awards show like this who hasn’t done it before is be prepared for A LOT of outfit changes and not much time in between.”

Signs record deal with Warner Bros and cowrites Eminem’s Grammy-winning The Monster

“When I heard Eminem was interested in [recording] The Monster and they wanted Rihanna on the hook, I knew I had to give the song away for people to take notice of me. We didn’t meet until we performed it at Coachella [in 2018]. He’s very chill and down-to-earth.”

Leaves the band to pursue a solo career

Uploads demos and covers to YouTube, and wins the Able Olman Scholarship, awarded to support young songwriters. Moves to LA.

Wins Best Teen Songwriter at a Grammys event and gets signed by major talent agent

“I almost didn’t get my submission in on time, but my mom got the bus into the city and made sure she handed it over personally. If it wasn’t for her it wouldn’t have happened. It was a point when I realised I wanted to take my career seriously.”