BeBe Zahara Benet, the iconic winner of the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, has not rested on her laurels since snatching the crown.
Our favorite queen from Cameroon has released her latest single, the thumping, bass-laden “Heavy.” The song is a follow-up to her 2022 double release of “Waiting” and “Smoke Signals” and chart-topping AfroPop anthems “Banjo” and “Body on Me.”
Fifteen singles in, the new release marks a sonic departure from BeBe’s Afrobeat roots, but showcases her slick flow, sharp wit and uncanny ability to brag with charm.
BeBe says, “As an artist, it’s always important to surprise my audience and keep them on their toes,” Benet says of the brassy banger. “‘Heavy’ is unexpected but is very much aligned with where I am as a person and as an artist in this moment. I’m telling my story and having fun.”
The release of “Heavy” is accompanied by a futuristic and fashion-forward music video helmed by Assaad Yacoub, who previously directed BeBe’s viral “Jungle Kitty” and “Banjo” visuals. In addition to her music, BeBe’s debut comedy special, Africa is Not a Country, is out now via Amazon Prime and Apple TV and she is currently featured on the debut season of Drag Me to Dinner, out now on Hulu.
BeBe took a few moments out of her busy schedule to check in with us and answer some burning questions, as she takes on the Socialite Seven. All hail the queen!
When did you discover your passion for music?
Music has been a part of my life since I was a child. I sang in the choir in school and church from the time I was young into adolescence. I developed a passion early on for it. I love the sounds and rhythms and how it brings people together. That’s my goal when creating music, as well. As I got older and started discovering artists, that passion continued to grow and build.
Who are your musical influences?
I am inspired by artists like Angelique Kidjo, Beyoncé, of course, Grace Jones, Yemi Alade, Whitney Houston, Burna Boy and so many others. I appreciate those who know how to tell a story with their music and bring something different to the game.
Who (if anyone) would you like to collaborate with?
I’d love to collaborate with some of the major AfroPop artists out there, like Wizkid or Tiwa Savage. I think we could make something dope happen and it would be unexpected.
What are three things you can’t live without?
Excluding things like family and friends, because that’s cheating: I can’t live without sweet tea, my phone or a good moisturizer. I’d be lost without each of these things
If you could wake up with a new talent or superpower tomorrow, what would it be?
If I could, I’d wake up with the power to see into the future. I’m so curious by nature, so I’d love to be able to see what’s to come and how people can be prepared for tomorrow.
Who would you want to play you if they made a movie about your life?
I’d want Ncuti Gatwa to play the younger version of me. He’s such a wonderful talent and a great actor. I could see Carl Clemons-Hopkins really devouring the role of me now. They’re both great!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to never diminish my light so that others can shine brighter than me. It’s easy to get caught up in humility and it’s good to stay humble, but you also have to know and remind yourself of your value and worth and not to always put the needs of others above what makes you special and unique.
Listen to “Heavy” on Spotify or wherever you get your music. Follow BeBe on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
