Tate McRae has always had a way of turning her emotions into lyrics in a profound yet authentic way, weaving raw emotions into melodies that resonate with millions. Now, she is stepping into a bold new chapter, redefining her artistry with a fresh sense of confidence and purpose. With her upcoming album So Close to What and the Miss Possessive Tour, McRae isn’t just making music—she's creating moments that capture what it means to grow, reflect, and embrace who you are.
But how did this transformation come about? What was the roadmap that led to the formation and evolution of her booming career?
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When someone becomes successful, it’s easy to overlook the hard work that laid the foundation for their fame. While most people know Tate McRae for her current hits and bold new era, her journey began humbly on YouTube. At just 14, Tate started posting videos on her channel Create with Tate, where she showcased her talents in singing, dancing, and playing the piano.
One of those early uploads, her original song “One Day,” went viral, amassing over 40 million views. The song’s success not only captured the hearts of millions but also caught the attention of record labels, launching her career into the spotlight.
This early glimpse of her talent paved the way for a lyrical journey that would evolve alongside her personal growth.
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Lyrical Evolution: From Sad Girl Anthems to Empowered Narratives
In I Used to Think I Could Fly, Tate McRae reflects on growing up—losing friends, confronting fears, and reminiscing about the innocent belief that she “used to think [she] could fly.” This introspective intro offered the first glimpse of her shifting perspective, portraying heartbreak through the lens of resilience and detachment, rather than devastation.
In her latest album, Think Later, Tate McRae fully steps into a new era. Her opening track, “Cut My Hair,” quite literally details letting go of the past and stepping into a new version of herself. Listeners and viewers will notice a dramatic shift, not only in her lyrics but also in her music videos and choreography, where her reinvention is on full display.

Image Credit: Avatar5991 from Wikimedia Commons
Growing up in the spotlight, it’s both fascinating and inspiring to witness Tate’s evolution in age and maturity, which is reflected through the themes of her music. For example, in her song “Calgary,” she sings, “I thought I had my [censored] together, can’t lie, the pills are looking tempting.” This honesty highlights her growth and willingness to tackle deeper, more personal subjects. Another lyric, “I’m 20, but I still feel like I’m 15,” captures the paradox of adulthood, resonating with teens and young adults alike.
While her music has often been seen as a voice for teens, Tate’s lyrics aren’t confined by age. Their rawness and emotional depth make them universally relatable. Her ability to adapt these emotions to various contexts allows her music to connect with listeners across generations.
Tate’s earlier songs, however, were dominated by “sad girl” breakup anthems. Tracks like “You Broke Me First,” her first major breakthrough, spent an impressive 38 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 between 2020 and 2021. These low-beat, heartbreak-driven songs formed the foundation of her career.
Yet, with her 2022 album, I Used to Think I Could Fly, a new tone began to emerge. While heartbreak remained a central theme, the album introduced more upbeat, empowering sounds.
From these beginnings to her latest work, Tate’s evolution is not just musical—it’s personal. Her journey of self-discovery sets the stage for her bold, confident new chapter.
A New Era: Bold Confidence in So Close to What
Fans are eagerly anticipating Tate McRae’s transformation in her upcoming album, So Close to What. With the release of singles like “It’s Okay I’m Okay” and “2 Hands,” McRae is teasing a bold, empowering shift in her artistry. Accompanying the album is her headline Miss Possessive Tour, which promises to showcase the same fierce energy fans are hearing in her new music.
Tate has shared that this new music is deeply influenced by her personal growth: “I feel like now I'm in my body and feeling what it feels like to be a woman for the first time, and that has really influenced my writing.” This perspective is evident in lyrics like “I just want your two hands on me,” where she confidently steps into her power and embraces a more dominant, self-assured narrative.
Her approach to the production process mirrors this newfound confidence. As she’s shared, “I don’t want to not have a say in any part of this. I want to be on every phone call, I want to be on every creative meeting, I want to be the one giving all the ideas for these music videos.” Tate isn’t just taking creative risks—she’s asserting herself as an artist with complete control over her vision.
Impact on Pop Culture and Empowerment

Image Credits: Justin Higuchi from Wikimedia Commons
Tate McRae is achieving something extraordinary. She’s coming into her own as a woman and, in doing so, influencing an entire generation of listeners. Her music, which has taken dramatic yet cohesive turns, allows fans to experience her journey of self-discovery alongside her. This evolution fuels a sense of female empowerment that resonates globally.
Tate’s shift away from her earlier “sad girl” breakup persona toward a narrative of confidence and self-possession is not only inspiring—it’s transformative. She’s redefining how women can approach love, heartbreak, and self-expression in pop culture. By embracing love as an empowering, invigorating exploration of self rather than a source of sadness, Tate is spreading a message that women are powerful, autonomous, and fearless.
This is more than a personal transformation; it’s a movement. Tate’s music is sparking a cultural conversation about what it means to grow, take control, and step into one’s power. Her influence reminds us that self-assured women can inspire change on a global scale.
What to Expect
As we eagerly await the release of So Close to What on February 21, 2025, the excitement is undeniable. This album promises to bring a new, empowering chapter in Tate McRae’s musical journey—one that celebrates growth, confidence, and fierce authenticity. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new listener, get ready to be inspired by music that captures the essence of self-discovery and empowerment.