Rihanna’s comeback track, “Bitch Better Have My Money,” exploded onto the scene, instantly becoming an unapologetic anthem. With Rihanna’s star power and Kanye West’s executive production, it’s easy to overlook another crucial force behind this platinum-certified hit: the songwriter who penned the assertive lyrics and infectious vibe. Meet Bibi Bourelly, the then 20-year-old Berlin native who brought the raw energy to #BBHMM.
Before dominating global airwaves as a Rihanna world premiere, “Bitch Better Have My Money” began as a studio session in Los Angeles. Bibi Bourelly, feeling “ratchet” and inspired by unfinished beats from Roc Nation’s Deputy, channeled her mood into the now-iconic phrase. In just three hours, the core of the song was born, showcasing the power of spontaneous creativity in crafting chart-topping hits. This wasn’t a calculated effort to write for Rihanna, but a creative spark that unexpectedly ignited.
But Bibi Bourelly is far from just another behind-the-scenes songwriter. This rising talent is carving her own path in the music world. A glimpse into her Instagram reveals a dynamic artist, sharing snippets of her own music in progress, soulful covers, and glimpses into a world connected with music industry heavyweights. Her journey is a testament to the power of raw talent and self-belief in a competitive industry.
Bibi’s organic rise to prominence, culminating in a Rihanna single, is a story worth exploring. In an interview, Bibi shared insights into the making of “Bitch Better Have My Money,” the whirlwind of attention, and her vision for her own artistic future.
Hi Bibi! Where are you at the moment?
I’m in… [pause] LA. It’s still a bit surreal to say sometimes.
It’s become impossible to talk without the phrase “Bitch Better…” popping into your head, isn’t it?
That’s amazing! It’s a crucial line, right? Because, seriously, people need to pay up.
Walk us through the songwriting process for “Bitch Better Have My Money.”
We were just hanging out with Deputy at a studio I often use. At that time, I was really into writing to beats, which is something I’ve moved away from now. He played me this beat, and I just jumped in and started riffing, “BITCH BETTER HAVE MY MONEY!” because that’s exactly how I was feeling that day – a bit rebellious and assertive. We laid down the track in about three hours, and then Deputy took it and refined it further. It evolved into what it is now, and thankfully, people connected with it.
It’s mind-blowing how quickly some of the biggest hits come together.
An hour can literally change your entire life. I’ve only been professionally in the industry for a year and a half, so this whole experience has been incredibly surreal. I just feel incredibly fortunate. Everything has happened so rapidly. I’m genuinely grateful.
Was “Bitch Better Have My Money” specifically commissioned for Rihanna?
Actually, we wrote it just for the sheer fun of it, thinking, “Let’s try and write a song that could work for Rihanna.” We genuinely didn’t expect her to ever hear it, let alone record it. It took a while to even get it to her team, and when she finally heard it, she really liked it. For me, being an artist comes first and foremost. The only songwriting projects I’ve truly been invested in have been for Rihanna. Honestly, she’s the only artist I’ve ever really cared about writing for. She resonated with my songwriting style and what I was creating as an artist, and she chose my songs.
Looking at your Instagram, you’re pictured with Kanye, Usher, Pharrell… even before “BBHMM,” you were clearly connected to influential figures.
It’s been a very strange dichotomy, having this behind-the-scenes presence while most of the world was just discovering me through Rihanna’s song.
Have you collaborated musically with any of them?
I’ve worked with Kanye. He heard “Bitch Better Have My Money” early on and loved it. He was actually present when we first played it for Rihanna. He was instrumental in bringing me to her attention, and she loved it too.
So, tell us more about your background, Bibi. People are eager to know your story.
My father is a professional musician. Growing up, our kitchen was often filled with bass players from Senegal and Ghana, deep in conversations about everything from music to conspiracy theories. I even toured with my dad from a young age. Music is in my DNA; it’s inherently who I am. It wasn’t a conscious decision one day – it’s always been my life. I’ve been writing songs for 16 years now, and I’m only 20. It’s my primary form of expression.
You were born in Berlin, is that right?
Yes, I’m German. Berlin is fundamental to my identity. Berlin is reflected in my music, my style, my way of speaking. I grew up roaming the subways and streets of that city. Graffiti, discovering underground music, hanging out on rooftops of abandoned buildings, often not going home when I should. Eventually, I got into some trouble and ended up moving to America.
What kind of trouble?
I was on the verge of failing high school completely, facing summer school, and not graduating on time. I was the rebellious kid, constantly clashing with the system. I realized early on that I understood myself and my passions better than many of my peers. I knew what defined me, and that was music. So, I decided to leave school, packed my bags in Berlin, and moved to LA. I declared I was going to pursue music, and I did. A year later, I have a Rihanna single.
The results speak for themselves.
I’m deeply aware of the immense amount of work I’ve poured into music since childhood, and how intrinsically I understand it. For me, not pursuing music wasn’t even a logical option. Some might see music or art as an unrealistic career path, but for me, music is my reality. The idea of going to college felt more unrealistic, it didn’t align with my path. I had faith that my dedication would eventually pay off. It’s about trusting yourself enough to be true to yourself.
You also co-wrote “Higher” for Rihanna’s album, correct?
Yes, “Higher” is a very significant song to me, and Rihanna’s rendition is incredible. “Higher” is more representative of my personal artistic style.
When you began working with Rihanna, was it challenging to decide which songs to keep for yourself and which to offer to her?
I believe everything happens for a reason. Working with Rihanna has been transformative. The brief 20 minutes it took to write “Higher” actually changed my life the most, because although we wrote “Bitch Better Have My Money” first, she heard “Higher” initially.
How are you adjusting to the increased attention that’s now coming your way?
Initially, the intense scrutiny and attention were daunting. But I’ve gained more confidence in myself and come to understand that achieving significant goals often requires a degree of personal sacrifice. I am profoundly grateful to be doing what I love. If my songs can make someone’s day a little better, whether at school, work, or anywhere, that’s what matters.
What’s on the horizon for Bibi Bourelly?
People haven’t seen anything yet. I have a lot of new music coming very soon.
For now, many perceive you primarily as a songwriter. Does that bother you?
I am an artist, not just a songwriter. That’s my core identity. I don’t write songs with the goal of them ending up on a record or being sold. I write to express my deepest emotions, whether joy or pain. They say it takes 10,000 hours to master something? I’ve invested that time, and it doesn’t even feel like work because I love it so deeply. It’s like a football player who lives and breathes the game. When you’re meant to do something, it consumes you. It’s the most powerful feeling. Music is my sole focus; it’s a high, an addiction, a beautiful obsession.
