Jul. 18 marked a new drop for singer-songwriter and actress Reneé Rapp with her latest single, “Why Is She Still Here.” Ahead of her upcoming album BITE ME, Rapp has released three tracks, “Leave Me Alone,” “Mad,” and now, “Why Is She Still Here.” And the lyrics to her latest single cut deep. Known for her introspective storytelling and hypnotic vocals, Rapp delivers a strong performance in this latest single. She navigates feelings of jealousy and uncertainty throughout the song, leaving behind a trail of subtle references and lingering questions.
Fans are now dissecting Rapp’s new single for the first time, uncovering the layers behind this catchy tune’s clever lyrics. Deeply soulful, “Why Is She Still Here” differs from the longing and even rock-heavy sounds of her previously released singles, “Mad” and “Leave Me Alone,” respectively.
Rapp pours her heart out in this song, questioning the presence of an unwelcome individual within her relationship. She opens with the lines, “You can tell me you don’t love her / But you should probably tell her, too,” establishing the other woman as unaware, or perhaps even dismissive of her behavior. Rapp continues into the chorus with, “No, it’s not fair / ‘Cause if it’s you and I, then / Why is she still here?” Feelings of betrayal and confusion begin to brew as the song pushes onward.
Reflecting on their relationship, Rapp mocks her partner for introducing her as a friend, noting all of the times they were seemingly more than that. She sings, “It’s funny ‘cause it didn’t feel like friends on the kitchen floor, no / I don’t take friends to the back of my tour bus.” The intimacy between the two contributes to their hot and cold dynamic. Rapp is left in a state of limbo, unsure of what to believe as their relationship becomes increasingly paradoxical.
These sentimental pleas and repeated lines of questioning persist throughout the final moments of the track. She sings, “I need you to myself tonight / Why’s she still here? / What else more do you need? When you got me right here,” building on the tired spiral she’s found herself entangled in. Having been outspoken on her sexuality and relationship with girlfriend and fellow musician Towa Bird, it’s unclear whether this track is a reference to their ongoing relationship. Whether the ballad alludes to her current relationship or is reflective of a previous connection, “Why Is She Still Here” remains a touching piece about doubt, insecurity, and emotional disarray.
With a background in musical theater, fans first got to experience Rapp’s commanding vocal presence through her role as Regina George in Broadway’s Mean Girls. Although the run was cut short due to COVID, she would later reprise her role in the show’s 2024 film adaptation. In between these events, the singer released her debut EP, Everything To Everyone, and her debut studio album, Snow Angel. This impressive musical catalogue, coupled with iconic on-screen roles, created the perfect environment for Rapp to spread her wings and continue on this trajectory.