Reneé Rapp Breaks Down Her Favorite Pop Songs | InStyle

Introduction

The month was June, and summer was in full swing. The air was thick with pollution, and mosquitoes buzzed angrily all around. As I worked tirelessly, my anticipation for the release of brat grew; I was practically on my knees waiting for the album. I could hardly contain my excitement, continually listening to its lead single.

In this personal reflection, I’m excited to share some of my favorite moments in pop music from the last 30 years. Let's take a nostalgic journey through the artists and songs that have shaped my musical landscape.

The Cranberries – "Linger" (1994)

My love for The Cranberries blossomed only recently. Their sound resonates deeply with me, particularly Dolores O'Riordan's distinct vocal style. There's something beautifully haunting about the emotion in her voice, which makes their music timeless.

Lauryn Hill – "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" (1998)

Lauryn Hill is an absolute gem. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her vocals is unmatched. When people discuss vocal talent, they often mention technical skills, but Hill's raw energy and soul elevate her to a different level entirely.

Destiny's Child – "Say My Name" (1999)

As one of the most influential girl groups, Destiny's Child shaped the sound of my childhood. Beyoncé's artistry is a topic of much debate, but for me, she is an undeniable powerhouse. The memories my mom and I shared while singing “Bootylicious” are cherished moments in my life.

Missy Elliott – "Work It" (2002)

Missy Elliott is a legend. Her unique voice and songwriting skills are groundbreaking, and her music is a blend of grit and confidence that can uplift anyone's mood. Her tracks have even become a sort of personal meditation for me.

The Veronicas – "Untouched" (2007)

Despite not being able to appreciate Untouched at its release in childhood, I've become obsessed with it in recent months. It's my go-to song for running and lifts my spirits like no other.

Beyoncé – "If I Were a Boy" (2008)

This masterpiece encapsulates profound themes of gender dynamics and empathy. The song's vocal performance is hauntingly beautiful, making it one of my all-time favorites.

Kesha – "Backstabber" (2010)

Kesha's Backstabber resonates with my experiences of navigating friendships. It’s a powerful anthem about betrayal that conveys the necessity of standing strong and assertive.

Frank Ocean – "Novocain" (2011)

Frank Ocean is an artist I admire deeply. His enigmatic presence in the industry and ability to articulate complex emotions in his lyrics define his work. Blonde, in particular, is an album that has significantly impacted me, especially tracks like "Godspeed."

SZA – "Drew Barrymore" (2017)

Reflecting on personal experiences and relationships, SZA's Control is a masterpiece that captures the struggles of young adulthood. Listening to "Drew Barrymore" during tough times has made it one of my favorite songs.

Remi Wolf – "Cake" (2022)

Remi Wolf's creativity is inspiring. Her EP Juno features "Cake," a challenging yet exhilarating song to sing. Her musical talent shines brightly.

McGee – "Candy" (2024)

Most recently, I’ve been enamored with McGee’s album, particularly the track "Candy." His artistry showcases incredible vocal talent, combined with phenomenal guitar skills.

Creating music is both a passionate addiction and a tremendous challenge for me. Engaging with these influential artists keeps my drive alive, pushing me forward as I work on my own upcoming album.

Despite the challenges I faced to get to where I am now, including numerous failed auditions for singing reality shows, my love for music remains unwavering.

Keywords

• Reneé Rapp
• Pop Music
• The Cranberries
• Lauryn Hill
• Destiny's Child
• Missy Elliott
• Frank Ocean
• SZA
• Remi Wolf
• McGee

FAQ

1. What inspires Reneé Rapp's music?
Reneé draws inspiration from a variety of influential pop artists and their impactful songs, shaping her own musical perspective.

2. Who are some of Reneé Rapp's favorite artists?
Some of her favorite artists include The Cranberries, Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott, and Frank Ocean.

3. What themes does Reneé explore in her music?
Reneé often explores themes of empowerment, betrayal, and emotional struggles, resonating with her personal experiences.

4. Has Reneé Rapp released any music?
Yes, Reneé has released her own music, including the much-anticipated album brat.

5. How did Reneé Rapp discover pop music?
Although she grew up listening primarily to R&B and hip-hop due to her family's musical preferences, she eventually developed a deep love for pop music.