Tate McRae’s latest album, So Close to What, is a polished pop offering that solidifies her place in the current pop landscape. Drawing inspiration from early 2000s pop icons like Britney Spears and the Pussycat Dolls, McRae leans into a dance-heavy, sleekly produced sound that thrives on infectious beats and radio-friendly melodies. At its best, the album delivers punchy hooks and slick production, but at times, the tracks blend together, making it difficult for standout moments to truly shine.
Lyrically, So Close to What explores the push and pull of relationships, self-reflection, and emotional uncertainty. Tracks like 'It’s OK I’m OK' and 'Sports Car' showcase McRae’s ability to craft compelling pop anthems. The production is pristine, and the melodies are undeniably catchy, yet there’s a sense that McRae is still searching for a distinct voice that sets her apart from the pack.
Her release event at the KIA Forum, however, proved that she is more than just a singer - she is a performer in every sense of the word. A trained dancer, McRae commanded the stage with precision and energy, reminding the audience that pop music isn’t just about vocals or songwriting - it’s about the full package: performance, stage presence, and connection with the crowd. The industry has long debated what makes a true pop star: is it vocal prowess, dance ability, brand identity, or all of the above? K-pop has perfected this formula for years, and McRae seems to be aligning herself with that school of thought, where meticulous stagecraft is just as vital as the music itself.
It’s tempting to compare McRae to her contemporaries like Olivia Rodrigo, Dua Lipa, and Charli XCX, but such comparisons often flatten the individuality of each artist. Every pop artist today is crafting their own unique brand - Rodrigo thrives on raw, angsty storytelling, Chappell Roan leans into theatrical camp, and Ariana Grande flexes effortless vocal acrobatics. McRae exists in a different space, one where dance and movement are just as integral to her artistry as the music itself. Rather than trying to fit into someone else’s mould, she is carving out her own identity within the pop genre.
Perhaps in an alternate timeline, McRae would have thrived in a girl group like Fifth Harmony or Little Mix, where she could dominate the dance routines while delivering occasional powerhouse vocals. But in today’s solo-driven industry, she faces the challenge of standing out among an increasingly crowded field. So Close to What may not be groundbreaking, but it proves that McRae is here to stay - not because she’s trying to outshine others, but because she’s building something entirely her own.