A fresh single release from Rebelle brings out a wonderful blend of old and new school pop approaches by combining a disco or dance pop with hints of that vintage '80s soundscape and taking that into a more current platform by bringing in fresh elements as well and this creates a very particular atmosphere that comes through not only danceable but addicting.
"Taboo" is a track that has a perfect energy and is balanced dynamically throughout its unfolding that lets it wrap itself around you and keep you right where it wants to.
The deeper into the track you get, the more you hear these elements of that disco pop coming in and out with unique sounds and textures, since and keys that pop in and give the track an extra flavor.
When I said that the track was addicting, I meant from all angles. Musically and production-wise, this track hits with a blend of color, energy, character, and a little hint of edginess which I love because it makes you want to jump around the room.
The beat is what gives it some of that disco element as well, but it hits hard, and that balance is perfectly with the way the vocals come in.
The vocal performance is absolutely bountiful and comes in feeling robust.
She has this powerful and soulful kind of performance and her singing style, and she takes that and doesn't go over the top with it but when you hear her voice, you know that she could do whatever she wants with it.
I like that she keeps things in a certain area in terms of that intensity so that you could really feel the beat, dance with the groove, and let the entire song as a whole take the main stage as opposed to just her vocal performance.
You have those classic guitars, grooving bass line, and synth pads that span throughout the whole course of the track and those are the things that add that vastness in its undertone.
I really get these little bouts of nostalgia here and there when I listen to the track and that's not just because of the disco style underbelly of it all.
I feel like her vocals remind me of classic Madonna in her early days. It's got that tone to it and that certain something that reaches out and grabs you.
This is definitely the kind of track that makes you want to move as soon as you start listening to it.
You can tell there was a lot of attention to detail during the creation of this track, but it still never loses that character or personality, heart or soul that it actually begins with in the first place and that may be the most important aspect of the entire thing.
Just by listening to this one track you can easily tell that Rebelle is someone that's been singing since she was a child. You just get that feeling. You can tell this is done from an artist that has a pure love for her craft and puts a lot into it.
With such a well woven single, we wanted to have a sit-down with Rebelle and talk shop.
Our interview with the artist delves into some Inspirations some influences, what's coming up next, and a little bit of her personal life.
Here's what happened.
Buzz Slayers: Hey Rebelle, and thank you for taking some time with us! "Taboo" was a danceable, disco-pop spree with a lush, captivating character! Can you tell us where this track came from?
"Taboo" was born from a deeply personal experience. Sometimes, we find ourselves in relationships where we know the other person is toxic, yet we’re afraid to leave. We hide our pain from the world, convincing ourselves that love should excuse the hurt. The "taboo" in this story is that silence—the way we keep our struggles behind closed doors. But taboos are meant to be broken. This song is about reaching that realization, about finally saying, "Enough is enough."
At the same time, I wanted to capture the power of release—of dancing through frustration, reclaiming strength, and realizing you’re not alone. That’s how I envisioned Taboo—a track that makes you move while also making you feel seen.
Buzz Slayers: I can hear different influences in this song. Can you share some artists who have shaped your sound?
I grew up listening to ABBA and Whitney Houston, and while I always loved to dance, I also spent six years in opera. When I moved to the U.S., I truly found my voice in commercial music, and that’s where my love for dance, disco, and pop flourished.
Some of my biggest influences are Britney Spears, Jessie Ware, Ava Max, and, of course, ABBA. But I also have deep admiration for Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, and even Maria Takeuchi. I love artists who bring drama, depth, and boldness into pop music.
Buzz Slayers: Do you often draw from personal experiences when writing songs?
Absolutely. While I sometimes just create for fun, a lot of my music comes from real emotions—things I’ve seen, heard, or felt. There are moments when I don’t even know how to process what I’m going through until I sit down and write. When that happens, a song can come together in less than two hours. It’s almost like therapy.
Buzz Slayers: Are you performing or planning any tours now that this track is out?
I did my first "mini" tour this past summer across Croatia, Vienna, and two venues in Los Angeles! Right now, I’m constantly performing while finishing my studies in Pasadena, CA.
As part of my graduation, I’m hosting a concert called The Plot on March 16th at 6 PM PST. It’s going to be live-streamed, and I’d love for everyone to tune in! I’ll be performing several originals, a brand-new single currently in production, and some special arrangements of songs you all know. So, if you’re ready for a good (disco) time, don’t miss it!
Buzz Slayers: Are you currently working on new material?
Haha, I’m always working on new music! Right now, I’m wrapping up my next single, which I plan to release by late March or early April. The next big step is finally dropping my debut EP with a few more tracks, so stay tuned!
Buzz Slayers: What’s next for you as an artist?
I want to keep writing, performing, collaborating, and pushing boundaries. I created Rebelle to be 100% myself—unapologetic, honest, and free. I refuse to conform to expectations of what I "should" or "shouldn’t" be. Through my music, I want to inspire others to do the same—to dance fearlessly, embrace their individuality, and never shrink themselves to fit into someone else's mold.
Buzz Slayers: Who are you listening to right now? Who’s in your headphones?
I’m exploring so many different artists at the moment! My playlist is a mix of SWV, Anderson .Paak, Niall Horan, The Driver Era, and Kirk Franklin. I love diving into different genres, absorbing everything I can, and finding music that fits every mood. Why stick to one sound when there’s an entire universe of music to explore?
Buzz Slayers: Do you prefer recording in the studio or performing live?
Both have their magic. In the studio, I get to focus on every detail, crafting a song until it sounds exactly how I imagine it. But performing? That’s where the real adrenaline kicks in.
Being on stage, feeding off the energy of a crowd, and seeing people react to my music in real-time—it’s electrifying. There’s no feeling like it. It reminds me why I do this, why I love music so much. And honestly, as much as I love singing in the shower, nothing beats performing in front of a live audience! Studio sessions can sometimes be isolating, and self-doubt creeps in. But on stage, that doubt disappears the second I see people dancing, singing along, or reacting to my music. That connection fuels me in a way nothing else does. I could sing in my shower all day, but nothing beats the rush of a live crowd!"
Buzz Slayers: This was a driving pop single, and I hope it reaches the masses the way it deserves! Is there anything you would like to express or say to fans of the music?
I want to say to all my fans: Music is a shared experience, and I truly believe that when we come together, we create something bigger than any of us. So, whether you're dancing to 'Taboo' or listening to any of my songs, know that we're in this together. I encourage you to listen to all the music that speaks to your soul—whatever makes you feel alive, empowered, and free. Always remember, that you're allowed to embrace your emotions, desires, femininity, and passion. Men and women alike should feel fully in control of their self-expression. Keep being unapologetically yourself, and let's keep pushing boundaries—because there's so much more to come. Thank you for being part of this journey. Let's make some magic!
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