Breaking Genres with EB Rebel
EB Rebel
In this profile series, Revry is highlighting authentic contributors to the LGBTQ media and entertainment community. We ask questions to find out who they are and where they are going in the future. The questions remain the same but the answers tell their unique story. It’s time to explore and celebrate true representation beyond the limits of Hollywood.
EB Rebel is an NYC-based artist originally from Dallas, Texas. In May 2016, she released the single and video for DON’T CARE, the lead single from her EP, TRANCE. The anthem landed on Dallas/Fort Worth’s Central Track, and was featured in the national publication Afropunk. Within a week, the song would make it to the team of STAY WOKE, a BET documentary directed by Laurens Grant and produced by Jesse Williams. The documentary aired on BET May 26, 2016. The soundtrack featured hip hop heavyweights such as J.Cole and Kendrick Lamar.
In 2018, EB Rebel released her second EP, MAMA, I’M OK. The record was focused on the relationship with her mother, is narrated by real life voicemails from Rebel's mother, the concerned “mama” we all have in our lives and brings attention to mental illness awareness. Rebel’s most recent single LOST/FEEL was released in November 2021.
What are you best known for?
My earlier music was punk rock inspired hip hop music, something I still create. However, this year I have moved into a genreless lane, releasing multiple singles with different styles. DONDE is a pop/dance leaning record that was released in March. IDOL and TEXAS COWGIRL are hip hop, released in April and August respectively. FEEL/LOST is an alternative pop/rock inspired song that is my most recent release. My goal is to express myself without limits, and show the listener my range as an artist.
What is the first thing you produced?
The first project I released for public consumption was a mixtape called REBEL WITH A CAUSE. The mixtape cover was drawn by my mother, and had some good tracks on there. I explored many topics, like police brutality and racism on BETWEEN THE LINES (an interpolation of Aaliyah’s song by the same name). On COFFINS and B. JEAN, I talk about a love interest I had at the time. The project can still be found on the Bandcamp platform. The mixtape really kick started my career, opening up many performance and exposure opportunities.
What are you working on that no one knows about yet?
As I have moved into this genreless lane, I have been exploring more topics and sounds that have resulted in upcoming releases. I am already working on videos and an EP project for the first quarter of the year. The EP will be a themed project, diving more into my sexuality and relationship. I feel more comfortable talking about these aspects of my life as I have grown more vulnerable with my audience. An important step I made towards that this year was coming out as non binary. My goal for 2022 is to continue to deliver thought provoking, progressive work consistently.