Tate McRae is the voice of a new generation balancing deep insecurity and absolute self-confidence. What started as a talented dancer writing her own songs in her bedroom has grown into a global pop phenomenon. With her signature raspy voice and lyrics that capture the exact pain of modern relationships, she knows how to resonate with millions of listeners.
10. working (with Khalid)
Together with Khalid, she dives into the world of summery R&B-pop. It is a song about the daily grind and the small irritations in a relationship, wrapped in a beat that feels like a breeze on a warm day.
9. chaotic
Growing up is a mess, and Tate isn’t afraid to admit it. “I’m turning twenty, and I’ve never been more scared.” It is a small, piano-driven ballad that captures exactly that fear of becoming an adult. Her voice sounds fragile and close here, as if she is saying it directly to you.
8. feel like shit
Sometimes deep metaphors aren’t necessary. After a break-up, you sometimes just feel exactly like the title says: like shit! The song builds from a lonely beat to a dramatic climax.
7. 10:35 (with Tiësto)
When the biggest DJ from the Netherlands called, Tate stepped out of her comfort zone of ballads and straight into the club. “10:35” is sleek, modern, and irresistible. It’s about that specific tension just before the night truly begins. Her raspy vocals fit perfectly with Tiësto’s pumping bassline.
6. run for the hills
This song is about a relationship you know you should run away from, but you don’t. The production is heavy and atmospheric, with a chorus that feels like a chase scene in a movie. It shows her growth as a songwriter; she dares to explore more complex themes and darker sounds.
5. it’s ok i’m ok
Her latest feat shows a confident Tate ready to claim the throne of pop music. It has that early 2000s energy—think of the bravado of Christina Aguilera or Britney. She sings about an ex who has moved on, but instead of crying, she shrugs her shoulders with a grin.
4. she’s all i wanna be
Jealousy is an ugly emotion, but Tate turns it into a great pop-rock song. It’s about the paralyzing insecurity that arises when you compare yourself to another girl. The guitars give it a punk edge that fits perfectly with the frustration in the lyrics.
3. exes
Instead of singing about one ex, she makes a list of all of them. It is rhythmic, almost spoken-sung, and has an attitude dripping with confidence. The beat is minimalist but powerful. It is the perfect song to put on when you need to remember your own worth after a failed date.
2. you broke me first
The global breakthrough that conquered the world from her bedroom during the pandemic. It is a brilliant piece of minimalist pop: a simple beat, a pulsing synth, and a lyric about someone coming back when it’s too late. “But I don’t really care how bad it hurts ’cause you broke me first.” It is stoic and painful at the same time.
1. greedy
With “greedy,” Tate transformed from a talented singer into an icon. The bassline is legendary, the tempo is killing, and the message is clear: she is not here to please, she is here for herself. The song radiates a kind of magnetic arrogance seen only in the greatest artists. It is the perfect pop song of this era: short, powerful, and impossible to get out of your head.
