Quick Facts

Morgan Wallen’s new single “What I Want” features Tate McRae
The song is Wallen’s first male/female duet
Tate McRae is a 20-year-old singer-songwriter known for her pop, electronic, and alternative sound

Tate McRae Faces Backlash Over Morgan Wallen Collaboration

A Star on the Rise

Tate McRae, born in Calgary, Alberta, has been making waves in the music industry for several years. With her unique sound blending pop, electronic, and alternative elements, she has garnered a devoted fan base and critical acclaim. Her debut single “One Day” (2019) quickly climbed the charts, followed by her debut EP “All the Things I Never Said” (2020). McRae’s music has been praised for its introspective lyrics, soaring vocals, and infectious melodies.

The Criticism

While many fans appreciate the unconventional pairing, others are puzzled by Wallen’s choice of collaborator. Some are criticizing Tate McRae’s relative inexperience and stating that she is not a good fit for a country-pop artist like Wallen. Others are commenting on the perceived mismatch between McRae’s style and the traditional country music genre.

One Reddit user wrote, “I don’t think Tate McRae fits the vibe of country music at all. She’s a pop artist trying to push her edge by working with a country artist, but it comes off forced.” Another fan commented, “Morgan Wallen’s whole brand is built on being a country artist, and Tate McRae is not country. It just doesn’t make sense.”

Is This Just a Musical Experiment?

While some critics argue that the duet marks the beginning of a mismatched partnership, it’s possible that Wallen and McRae are simply exploring new sonic territories. “What I Want” is a departure from Wallen’s typical country-pop sound, and the collaboration could be an attempt to push the boundaries of both artists.

Wallen has previously experimented with different genres, incorporating pop and rock elements into his music. McRae, on the other hand, has cited artists like Taylor Swift and Kacey Musgraves as influences, demonstrating her familiarity with country-pop. The combination of their styles could result in an innovative and refreshing sound.

Implications for Both Artists

The criticism surrounding “What I Want” could have significant implications for both Wallen and McRae. For Wallen, the backlash could tarnish his reputation as a country-pop artist, potentially alienating his core fan base. As a relatively new artist, McRae may find herself scrutinized for her decision to collaborate with a country-pop star, potentially leading to questions about her artistic direction.

The controversy surrounding Tate McRae’s collaboration with Morgan Wallen highlights the complexities of artistic collaborations and the blurred lines between genres. While some fans are enthralled by the duet, others are voicing their concerns about the pairing. It remains to be seen whether “What I Want” will resonate with fans and critics alike, or whether it will simply be a footnote in the careers of both Wallen and McRae.

For Tate McRae, this experience may serve as an opportunity to grow and adapt, learning from the criticism and using it to refine her craft. For Morgan Wallen, it may be a chance to showcase his willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of his music.

Ultimately, the success of “What I Want” will depend on the artistic vision and execution of both Wallen and McRae. As fans, we can only speculate on the outcome, but one thing is certain – this collaboration will be closely watched and discussed within the music industry.