Rihanna’s explosive track “Bitch Better Have My Money” (BBHMM) took the music world by storm, instantly becoming an anthem. While Rihanna’s powerful performance and Kanye West’s executive production are undeniable forces behind its success, the genesis of this platinum hit lies with an equally compelling talent: Bibi Bourelly. This article dives into the story of how a 20-year-old from Berlin penned this unapologetic demand for payment, transforming a personal frustration into a global sensation.
Before #BBHMM dominated airwaves and playlists worldwide, it was a raw expression born in a Los Angeles studio. Bibi Bourelly, then a budding songwriter, was simply channeling a bad mood over unfinished beats provided by Roc Nation’s Deputy. This candid moment of venting would unexpectedly morph into Rihanna’s hard-hitting single.
But Bibi Bourelly is far from just another behind-the-scenes songwriter. She’s an artist with her own distinct voice and vision. Even before the world recognized her name, industry insiders were already taking notice. Her Instagram offered a glimpse into her burgeoning career, showcasing everything from snippets of original songs in development to soulful Oasis covers, and snapshots alongside music industry giants.
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To understand the whirlwind behind “Bitch Better Have My Money” and Bibi’s rapid ascent, we delve into an exclusive conversation with the songwriter herself, exploring the Rihanna collaboration, navigating sudden fame, and her artistic journey beyond this breakout hit.
Unpacking the Genesis of “Bitch Better Have My Money”
“Whenever I start talking at the moment, it feels like I’m beginning to say the words ‘Bitch better…’,” I remarked to Bibi, acknowledging the inescapable catchphrase.
“Awesome! Well, it’s an important line… Cos niggas don’t be having yo’ money,” she responded with a laugh, highlighting the raw, relatable energy that fuels the song.
Bibi shared the spontaneous origin of “Bitch Better Have My Money,” explaining, “We were just vibing with Deputy in one of the local studios I record out of. It was back when I was into writing to beats, which I don’t do anymore. He played it for me, I went in and started saying something like ‘BITCH BETTER HAVE MY MONEY!’ because I was feeling ratchet that day.” This raw, unfiltered emotion was the spark that ignited the track. “We got that shit done in three hours, then Dep went home and worked on it some more. It came out the way it did, and people seemed to like it.”
The speed at which massive hits can materialize still amazes even those within the industry. “An hour can change your life,” Bibi reflected. “I’ve only been in the industry for a year and a half, so it’s even more crazy for me. It’s weird, but I just feel lucky. All of this shit happened so fast. I am grateful.” This rapid transformation from studio jam session to global anthem underscores the unpredictable nature of the music industry and the potent impact of a truly resonant hook like “Bitch Better Have My Money.”
#freestyle #stu #BIBI2015 #drunkaf
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Contrary to assumptions, “Bitch Better Have My Money” wasn’t a commissioned piece. Bibi clarifies, “Hmm, we actually wrote it for fun because we thought, let’s try to write a song for Rihanna. We had no idea she would actually ever hear it or do it; we just decided.” This ambition, coupled with pure creative energy, led to an unexpected outcome. “It took us forever to get it to her, and when she did hear it, she thought it was cool.”
For Bibi, songwriting for Rihanna wasn’t just another project; it was a focused aspiration. “I’m an artist first and foremost, you see? The only songwriting projects I’ve ever had are Rihanna. And, to be honest, she’s the only person I really cared about writing for.” Rihanna’s connection with Bibi’s raw talent was key. “She liked my songs and the things I was doing, because I love to make music. And she picked them.”
Bibi Bourelly: From Berlin Streets to Industry Circles
Even before “Bitch Better Have My Money” propelled her into mainstream consciousness, Bibi was already moving within influential circles. “Looking at your Instagram, I see you chilling with Kanye, Usher, Pharrell. Even if most of us didn’t know who you were it seems like everyone that matters did?” I observed, noting the apparent dichotomy between public awareness and industry recognition. “It has been weird having that contrast,” Bibi admitted.
Her collaborations already included power players like Kanye West. “I’ve worked with Kanye. He heard ‘BBHMM’ and loved it. He was there when we played it for the first time. Then he brought me out to meet Rihanna and she loved it too.” This endorsement from Kanye further solidified the track’s potential and Bibi’s rising star.
Bibi’s musical foundation is deeply rooted in her upbringing. “My dad is a professional musician. I grew up with bass players from Senegal and Ghana in my kitchen talking about conspiracy theories. I got to tour with my dad at an early age too. So it’s in my genes. It’s what I do.” Music wasn’t a career choice; it was an inherent part of her identity. “I didn’t wake up one morning and decide to. I always have. I’ve written songs for 16 years, and I’m 20. It’s my way of communicating.”
Her Berlin origins are also integral to her artistic identity. “Yeah, I’m German. Berlin is who I am. Berlin is my music, the way I dress, the way I talk. I grew up running around the subways and streets of that city. Tagging, listening to cool music, sitting on the rooftops of abandoned buildings and not going home enough.” This rebellious spirit and urban upbringing are palpable in her music and persona, adding depth to tracks like the assertive “Bitch Better Have My Money.”
A turning point led her to America. “Then I got in trouble and went to America.” When asked about the nature of this “trouble,” Bibi candidly shared, “I was about to fail fucking high school, I had to go to summer school, and I didn’t graduate on time. I was that kid who was fucking belligerent. I was not ever trying to be there, because I realized at a certain age that I knew myself, better than a lot of other kids my age did. I knew what I loved—in fact, fuck what I loved—I knew what defined me, and that was music.” This conviction fueled her bold move. “I said fuck school, and I packed my bags in Berlin and moved to LA. I said I was gonna do it, I was gonna do music, and I did it. A year later, I have a Rihanna single.”
The success of “Bitch Better Have My Money” is a testament to Bibi’s unwavering self-belief. “You can’t really argue with those results,” I acknowledged. “I know how much work I’ve put into music as a child, and I know how well I know music. So, not working wouldn’t even be a rational thought to me.” For Bibi, music is not just a passion; it’s a necessity. “Some people think doing music or art is an unrealistic goal, but for me music is my reality. In my mind, going to college is what’s unrealistic, that didn’t make sense to me. I knew this would eventually pay off. It’s about trusting yourself enough to be yourself.”
Beyond “Bitch Better Have My Money,” Bibi also contributed to Rihanna’s album with another significant track. “Am I right in thinking you’ve also written the song ‘Higher’ for Rihanna’s album?” I inquired. “Yeah, that is a really big song, and really dear to me, and she killed it. ‘Higher’ is more like what I would do in my own stuff,” Bibi revealed.
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The emotional depth of “Higher” holds a special place for Bibi. “When you started working with her was it hard sometimes to decide what to keep for yourself and what to let go?” I asked, considering the delicate balance between collaboration and artistic ownership. “Everything happens for a reason. Working with Rihanna has changed my life. The 20 minutes it took me to write ‘Higher’ is actually what changed my life, because, even though we wrote ‘Bitch Better Have My Money’ first, she heard that one first.” The impact of “Higher,” though perhaps less overtly aggressive than “Bitch Better Have My Money,” was pivotal in solidifying her relationship with Rihanna.
Navigating Fame and the Future
The global success of “Bitch Better Have My Money” inevitably brought increased attention. “How do you feel about the extra attention you’re inevitably going to get?” I asked, acknowledging the shift in her public profile. “At first, I was scared of the excess attention and what that would bring to me. But I’ve become more sure of myself, and I understand that in order to achieve great things, you have to sacrifice yourself to some extent.” Bibi’s perspective is grounded in her artistic purpose. “I’m grateful to do what I love. As long as my songs help kids have a better day at school, or a good day at work or whatever.”
Looking ahead, Bibi emphasizes that “Bitch Better Have My Money” is just the beginning. “What else is coming?” I prompted. “People have not seen anything at all yet. I have some new music. Very soon.” She is determined to establish herself as a multifaceted artist beyond songwriting credits. “People are going to see you as a songwriter until your stuff comes out. Does that bother you?” I questioned. “I’m an artist not a songwriter. Mentally, at heart,” Bibi asserted. “I don’t write songs to be on a record, I don’t write songs to be sold. I do it to pour my heart out, whether I’m in pain or totally happy.”
Music is not just a profession for Bibi; it’s an all-consuming passion. “You know they say it takes 10,000 hours to become a master of something? I’ve practiced that, I’ve done that, and it didn’t even feel like 10,000 hours, because I love it. The same way a football player loves to play football. When you’re meant to do something, it embodies you. It’s the most overwhelming feeling in the world. I don’t do anything else other than music. It’s a high; it’s an addiction; it’s psychotic; it’s sick; it’s an obsession.”
Bibi Bourelly’s journey, marked by the explosive success of “Bitch Better Have My Money,” is a compelling narrative of raw talent, unwavering self-belief, and the transformative power of music. As she steps into the spotlight as an artist in her own right, the world eagerly awaits the next chapter in her already remarkable story.
