Concert Review: Reneé Rapp BITE ME Tour in Los Angeles

Karlee Skipper
2 minutes ago
4 min read

Renee Rapp BITE ME Tour Poster via ReneeRapp.om

Reneé Rapp is commanding the stage on her BITE ME Tour across the United States and the world. The multi-threat artist - singer, songwriter, actress, and amateur comedian - is currently promoting her sophomore LP of the same name. I had the privilege of attending her show date in Los Angeles at the Kia Forum, where she mesmerized the audience and showcased her undeniable talent. From the upbeat tracks such as "Leave Me Alone" and "You'd Like That Wouldn't You," to her soothing ballads like "That's So Funny" and "Sometimes," Rapp kept the crowd hanging onto her every word.

Rapp began the show with BITE ME’s lead single, “Leave Me Alone.” Similar to how it was the perfect introduction to the new album, it was the best way to open the concert. Rapp’s cheeky attitude came to life - from studio to stage. Rapp’s snarkiness and carefree spirit are two of my favorite aspects about her, and I was thrilled to see them again in person. The release of singing the lyrics such as “Took my sex life with me now the show ain’t fucking” and “Leave me alone, bitch // I wanna have fun,” in a crowd full of strangers who love the same music was a cathartic release. From that moment forward, I knew the Kia Forum was a safe haven for the next two hours.

Reneé Rapp performing "Leave Me Alone" at the BITE ME Tour.

This sense of safety was intensified during Rapp’s slow, ballad set when the crowd in the upper sections alerted the singer to an issue. After she noticed their lights and screaming, she paused the show to ensure the venue staff addressed the issue and refused to play until she got a thumbs-up from security. Her concern was apparent on her face as she awaited confirmation from the team. Rapp’s compassion and authenticity are other characteristics that lured me into the artist and made me stay as a devoted fan. And it was endearing witnessing this in person.

Reneé Rapp performing "Sometimes" at the Bite Me Tour.

Rapp knows how to entertain. From her hilarious ad-libs to her infectious dance moves, she knows how to captivate her audience. She also knows how to execute the perfect surprise. When I saw her here in 2023 on her Snow Hard Feelings Tour, she brought out one of her biggest inspirations, Bryson Tiller, to perform with her. This year, she completely blew the audience out of the water by bringing out Leon Thomas III to sing his track, “Mutt.” For those who don’t know, Thomas is a Contemporary R&B and Neo-Soul singer, songwriter, producer, and actor. By sharing her stage with this multi-talented artist, Rapp not only showcased this incredible artist but also healed many inner-children that night. Thomas played a main – perhaps the best – on Nickelodeon’s Victorious. Seeing him live was the unexpected present we all needed.

Rapp closed the night with one of my favorite tracks from BITE ME, “At Least I’m Hot.” The cheeky song is about pushing through life’s hardships, setbacks, and lulls because even if you’re depressed, you can still say, “at least I’m hot.” The song is simultaneously hilarious and a gut-punch into the reality of life. But Rapp sings it all with a smile on her face. In the second verse, the studio recording has Rapp having a conversation with her girlfriend, Towa Bird.

Bird: “How you doin', Ne?

Rapp: “I’ve been doing real bad.”

Bird: “Damn, but you look so fit.”

Rapp: “Well, I can guarantee that.”

In every show before this, Rapp had her fans or her opener help with this part of the song. However, at the Los Angeles show, the singer surprised us with something that caused the entire arena to erupt. Bird herself was front row with a microphone to bring the track to life and do her own part. Despite the sorrowful lyrics, the singer never looked happier. Rapp then brought her partner on stage for the remainder of the song to dance alongside her before closing the night out. This cute and unique aspect made the show even more special, because it showcased the singer’s personal and sweet side while maintaining her edgy and sarcastic energy.

Reneé Rapp performing "At Least I'm Hot" at the Bite Me Tour.

If you have not had the chance to see Rapp live, buying tickets for the BITE ME tour is a must. Her incredible vocals are unmatched, and her stage presence is otherworldly. She somehow makes the large arena feel like an intimate venue for her closest friends. Whether you are a longtime fan or just now being introduced to Rapp, you are guaranteed a night you will never forget. And who knows, you may meet a young ex-wife for you to start a brand new life with.

Tickets are available here.

Reneé Rapp BITE ME Tour Los Angeles Set List

Written By Karlee Skipper