Bebe Rexha on Performing in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: ‘It Brings a Sense of Unity’

The New York City native will join the likes of country icon Dolly Parton, soul legend Patti LaBelle, “American Idol” winner Jordin Sparks and “Hamilton” Tony winner Leslie Odom Jr. when she performs Thursday as part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Rexha will perform “Baby, I’m Jealous” — her single featuring Doja Cat released last month — in the parade, airing from 9 a.m. to noon on NBC.

She’ll be performing on the float for Jennie-O, the first turkey partner in the nearly century-long history of the parade.

Designed at the Macy’s Parade Studio in Moonachie in New Jersey’s Bergen County, the 36-foot-long float is adorned with tail feathers two stories tall, according to a news release.

Rexha recently spoke via email about being part of this year’s parade, which can only been viewed on NBC — due to COVID-19 safety precautions, the millions of spectators who usually view the 2.5 mile parade are being told to stay home, and all activity will be limited to the Herald Square area of Midtown Manhattan.

Q: As a native New Yorker, how do you feel about coming home to be part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, something that has been part of the holiday season in the city for nearly a century?

A: I’m so excited to see my family and I’m looking forward to be a part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. My family and I used to watch the parade every year, it’s a family tradition. I’m so happy to be on the Jennie-O float because their meatballs are actually my favorite. My mom used to make them all the time.