Bebe Rexha

Early Life

Bleta "Bebe" Rexha was born on August 30, 1989, in Brooklyn, New York City, to Albanian parents from North Macedonia. Her father, Flamur, emigrated to the U.S. at 21, while her mother, Bukurije, has roots in Gostivar. The name "Bebe" comes from the Albanian word for "bee". At six, her family moved to Staten Island, where she developed her musical talents, teaching herself to play the trumpet, guitar, and piano. Rexha attended Tottenville High School, where she sang in the choir and participated in musicals, discovering her coloratura soprano voice. Her early songwriting success earned her the "Best Teen Songwriter" award at the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences' annual event, leading to a contract with a talent scout.

Career

Rexha's career began in 2010 when she joined the pop band Black Cards, formed by Fall Out Boy's Pete Wentz. After leaving the band in 2012, she signed with Warner Bros. Records and released her debut single, "I Can't Stop Drinking About You," in 2014. Her first EP, "I Don't Wanna Grow Up," followed in 2015, featuring the hit "I'm Gonna Show You Crazy." Over the years, she has released several successful singles, including "I Got You" and "No Broken Hearts," showcasing her versatility as a pop artist. Rexha is known for her eclectic style, blending pop, R&B, and electronic influences, and has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Billboard Music Award for Top Dance/Electronic Song.

Personal Life

Rexha is an outspoken advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and identifies as having a fluid sexuality. She has been open about her struggles with mental health, revealing her bipolar disorder diagnosis in 2019 and polycystic ovary syndrome in 2023. In her personal life, she has faced challenges, including harassment in the industry and a public breakup with cinematographer Keyan Safyari in 2023. Despite these hurdles, Rexha continues to engage with her fans and promote positivity through her music and public appearances, including a recent appearance on Celebrity Family Feud with her family.