On Tuesday night, Reneé Rapp lit up the stage with a wildly fierce and entertaining stop in Tampa. Showcasing hits like Not My Fault and Leave Me Alone, Reneé was a beacon of star quality for all of Tampa. The electrifying show took place at Yuengling Center, where fans packed the venue, ready to scream, cry, and sing their hearts out to Rapp’s latest sonically powerful album, Bite Me.
Fousheé Ignites the Night
Before Rapp took to the stage, the audience was introduced to her opener, rising R&B artist Fousheé. Her energy was infectious, combining serenity and confidence, as she warmed up the audience with soft melodies and rhythmic tunes. Taking influence from Jamaican Reggae, her tracks blend airy vocals and smooth production, transporting the audience to a tranquil yet magnetic atmosphere.
Starting With a Bang
As soon as the snippet of Everything to Everyone echoed through the venue, the crowd could not stop cheering. Each hit of the beat electrified the audience to scream and sing along to the words. Soon after, the stage lights illuminate Reneé’s shadow, outlining her standing, exuding star power. Her dynamic voice then transitioned the set seamlessly into her lead single Leave Me Alone. That opening could be felt in your bones as the beat pumped you with adrenaline, preparing for a night that could never be forgotten.
From the second she stepped onto the stage, Reneé’s confidence radiated with immense energy. Every movement she made further established how strong a performer she is. The Bite Me singer is truly an artist that Florida will never forget.
Unforgettable Mid-show Moments
Even when one would think a show would lull, Reneé made it clear that this show was strong all the way through. During the middle of her set list, Reneé spoke about this show being her first ever in Florida, and made it the most memorable night for her Florida fans. Going into the crowd, Rapp took a camera to showcase her excited fans, allowing herself to become fully immersed in the experience. This moment truly showcased that her connection to fans makes her a star like no other.
Probably the best moment of the night, Rapp played one of her viral hits I Think I Like You Better but with a Tampa twist. At the end of the song, she riffed off the chorus, singing, “I think I like you better when you’re in Tampa”. The crowd cheered with adoration, feeling seen and appreciated by Rapp, creating a little community within the venue. For Florida fans, this intimate moment turned a tour stop into a lasting memory for a lifetime.
A Show-Stopping Finale
For one of her final songs, Rapp performed the beloved hit Snow Angel. This performance packed jaw-dropping vocals with gut-wrenching emotions to deliver an out-of-body experience for everyone in the audience. Her voice radiated with amazing control and force, cultivating a choir-like production. This song left the crowd in deafening silence, in awe of Rapp’s immense talent.
Saving the best for last, in classic Reneé fashion, she swerved the show straight into a snippet of Not My Fault, teasing fans about “not wanting to sing this song” before diving into the final track At Least I’m Hot. Bringing back the chaotic and fun energy, the track raised the energy of the room. Perhaps one of the most memorable moments of the night, during the fan interaction of the song, when Towa Bird asks, “How you doing Nae?”, the fan on the mic teased Reneé by saying, “Oh, but you look too well,” causing an uproar of laughter in the audience. Nothing like bringing an unapologetically unserious energy to end the show on a high.
Rapp Leaves Tampa Wanting More
Reneé Rapp proved time and time again throughout the night why she’s one of the most exciting voices to listen to. From powerhouse vocals to comedic and heart-wrenching storytelling, her Bite Me tour stop in Tampa was the perfect blend of humor, heart, and raw talent. If that show was any indication, Tampa will surely be anticipating Rapp’s return.