What makes Expectations by Bebe Rexha notable?

'Expectations' debuted at number 13 on the Billboard 200 and received positive reviews for its catchy melodies and emotional depth. The album's lead single, 'Meant to Be,' topped the Hot Country Songs chart and became a cultural phenomenon, solidifying Rexha's status as a versatile artist across genres. Released on June 22, 2018, 'Expectations' is Bebe Rexha's debut studio album following her successful EP 'All Your Fault: Pt. 2' in 2017. At this point in her career, she had already achieved chart success with collaborations like 'Meant to Be' and was transitioning from featured artist to a leading solo act.

Who is Expectations for?

Expectations works well if you're into steady mid-tempo dance vibes, emotional sing-alongs with friends and uplifting tracks for celebrations.

How many songs are on Expectations?

Expectations has 14 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Expectations

Bebe Rexha · 2018

43 min · 14 tracks · contemporary R&B

A vibrant blend of pop, dance, and R&B that explores themes of love and self-discovery with captivating hooks.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ferrari — This track stands out for its lush production and evocative lyrics about longing and desire, showcasing Rexha's vocal range and emotional delivery.
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I’m a Mess — With its confessional tone and relatable themes of vulnerability, this song captures the essence of personal struggle while maintaining an upbeat tempo that invites listeners to dance through their chaos.
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Meant to Be — As a crossover hit blending country and pop elements, this track not only topped charts but also exemplifies Rexha's ability to transcend genre boundaries while delivering a heartfelt message about destiny.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album blends pop and R&B effectively but lacks standout writing throughout.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains an upbeat tempo with danceable tracks, while the second half shifts to more introspective ballads.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo dance vibes
emotional sing-alongs with friends
uplifting tracks for celebrations
reflective moments on life
engaging storytelling throughout

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced, high-energy
avoid emotional depth and nuance

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album established Bebe Rexha's reputation with significant chart success.
Career context: Released on June 22, 2018, 'Expectations' is Bebe Rexha's debut studio album following her successful EP 'All Your Fault: Pt. 2' in 2017. At this point in her career, she had already achieved chart success with collaborations like 'Meant to Be' and was transitioning from featured artist to a leading solo act.
Stylistic neighbors: Dua Lipa· Charli XCX· Rihanna