Bebe Rexha Scores Dance Chart Success With ‘New Religion’ Following Shift to Independence

Bebe Rexha has reached a new milestone in her career, landing at the top of two Billboard dance charts with her single “New Religion”. The track, released earlier this year, climbed to Number One on both the Dance/Mix Show Airplay chart and the U.S. Dance Radio chart, marking one of Rexha’s most notable chart performances in recent years. While the singer has built a reputation for chart success through high-profile collaborations and pop-leaning EDM hits, this latest achievement arrives under different circumstances: it is her first major release since going independent.

Rexha publicly acknowledged the accomplishment on social media, framing it as a shared victory with her audience and emphasizing the personal significance of the moment. She described the path to independence as uncertain and, at times, daunting, particularly after years spent within the major label system.

Earlier this year, Rexha revealed that she had parted ways with Warner Music Group, ending a long-standing relationship that had overseen much of her mainstream success. During her time with the label, she contributed to several major hits and developed a strong presence across both pop and dance formats.

In January, the artist indicated that the split had been difficult, sharing her reaction to the news and expressing concern about her future in the industry. In a video recorded shortly after the separation, Rexha appeared visibly emotional, describing the moment as a turning point that forced her to reconsider her next steps.

Following the departure, Rexha aligned with Empire Distribution, an independent distribution company that provides artists with a hybrid model of services, including marketing, publishing, and release support. The partnership allows her greater control over her music while maintaining access to industry infrastructure.

“New Religion,” released in March, became the first test of that new arrangement. The track blends elements of dance-pop and electronic production, returning Rexha to a sound that has been central to her earlier success. In addition to its chart-topping performance in dance formats, the single has also made appearances on several other Billboard charts, including digital sales and pop airplay rankings.

In reflecting on the transition, Rexha described the past several years as challenging, suggesting that much of that period involved navigating industry pressures behind the scenes. She framed her current position as a reset, emphasizing the importance of working with a team that aligns with her creative direction.

Industry observers note that Rexha’s trajectory reflects a broader shift among established artists seeking more autonomy over their work. While independence offers increased control, it also carries financial and operational risks, particularly for artists accustomed to the resources of major labels.

Her upcoming album, Dirty Blonde, is scheduled for release on June 12. The project is expected to further define this next phase of her career, both creatively and professionally.