Tate McRae was destined to be a star.
From playing songs on her piano in her bedroom to topping global charts, McRae has begun to dominate the entertainment industry. Born in Calgary, Canada, she started dance and voice lessons at the age of six, and at the age of 12, she competed on “So You Think You Can Dance,” placing third. Her passion for both dance and singing nurtured her growth.
In 2017, McRae posted a video of her singing an original song, “One Day,” not knowing this would be her breakout moment. Just two years later, this viral moment led her to sign with RCA Records, officially launching her path to pop superstardom.
How it all started
In January 2020, McRae released her debut EP, “all the things i never said,” with some of her hit singles, “stupid” and “tear me apart.” McRae then went on to announce her first tour, but that was then canceled due to the covid-19 pandemic. This setback did not stop McRae from building her success. During the lockdown, the star released one of her biggest breakout songs, “you broke me first.” This hit went viral on TikTok, and the exposure helped McRae’s career skyrocket.
Where she is now
With over 17.6 billion career streams across all digital platforms, McRae has begun to dominate the pop industry. Known for her vocal talent, emotional but fun lyrics and signature choreography, McRae has established a spot in the industry, making her one of the most recognizable and influential artists of her generation.
In 2021, at just 17 years old, the star was a part of the Forbes 30 Under 30 List, being the youngest member of the music class, showing her rapid rise and impact. Since then, she has won numerous awards, including Artist of the Year at the 2024 and 2025 JUNO Awards, as well as had nominations for five Billboard Music Awards.
Currently, McRae is on the road for her “Miss Possessive Tour.” Her European leg of the tour was extremely successful, earning nearly $28 million in revenue, and her North American leg has already completely sold out, reflecting her massive and devoted fan base.
Biggest hits
“you broke me first”
Off her second EP, “TOO YOUNG TO BE SAD,” this emotional single gained McRae international recognition and helped launch her music career. Released in 2020, the breakout hit resonated with many listeners, as they could relate to the vulnerable lyrics about heartbreak and betrayal. With viral traction gained on TikTok, the song reached global charts, receiving multi-platinum certifications in several countries.
“greedy”
This confident, upbeat pop anthem marked another turning point in McRae’s career. Released in 2023, the hit’s catchy lyrics and infectious beat led the song to become another viral sensation for McRae, dominating the charts. The track showed more of a confident side of McRae and set the stage for her second studio album, “THINK LATER.”
“Sports car”
Featured on McRae’s third studio album, “So Close To What,” this vulnerable track is about the “adrenaline of love, sex and the excitement of it all,” similar to the speedy experience of driving a sports car. This exciting, sexy song showcased another side of McRae and her storytelling to her fans and listeners.
