Tate McRae Faces Criticism Over Collaboration With Morgan Wallen On "What I Want"

Pedro Alvarez

4 min read

Post on May 29, 2025

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The recent collaboration between rising pop star Tate McRae and country singer Morgan Wallen on their song "What I Want" has sparked significant controversy. This partnership, while potentially lucrative for both artists, has drawn considerable criticism due to Wallen's well-documented past controversial actions. This article will delve into the reasons behind the backlash, examine the implications for both McRae and Wallen's careers, and analyze the ethical considerations surrounding the Tate McRae Morgan Wallen collaboration.

<h2>Morgan Wallen's Past Controversies</h2>

Morgan Wallen's career has been marred by several high-profile controversies, significantly impacting public perception and leading to the current backlash surrounding his collaboration with Tate McRae.

<h3>The N-word Incident and its Fallout</h3>

In 2021, a video surfaced showing Wallen using a racial slur. This incident resulted in immediate and widespread condemnation.

• Radio stations across the country removed his music from their playlists.
• His record label, Big Loud Records, suspended him indefinitely.
• Numerous awards shows and performances were cancelled.

While Wallen issued a public apology, the damage was done. The incident highlighted the severity of his actions and fueled ongoing discussions about accountability within the music industry. The repercussions continue to shape his career trajectory and significantly influenced the negative reaction to the Tate McRae Morgan Wallen collaboration.

<h3>Other Controversies and Public Perception</h3>

Beyond the highly publicized N-word incident, other instances of controversial behavior have further contributed to the negative public perception surrounding Wallen. While specific examples may vary depending on sources, the cumulative effect of these actions has created a climate of distrust and skepticism among many members of the public. This pre-existing negative perception significantly fueled the criticism directed at Tate McRae for choosing to collaborate with him.

<h2>Tate McRae's Decision and the Backlash</h2>

Tate McRae's decision to collaborate with Morgan Wallen on "What I Want" has faced significant criticism, raising questions about her awareness of the ethical implications and the potential damage to her own image.

<h3>Public Reaction to the Collaboration</h3>

The announcement of the collaboration was met with immediate and widespread negative reactions across social media platforms.

• Many of McRae's fans expressed disappointment and anger. Social media was flooded with critical comments, expressing a sense of betrayal and questioning McRae's judgment.
• News articles and blogs highlighted the controversy, focusing on the potential negative impact on McRae's career and the perceived contradiction between her image and Wallen's past actions.
• The hashtag #TateMcRaeBetrayal trended on Twitter for several days, reflecting the intensity of the negative sentiment surrounding the collaboration. This showcased the vocal dissatisfaction of a significant portion of her fanbase.

<h3>McRae's Public Response (or Lack Thereof)</h3>

As of [Insert Date], Tate McRae has yet to issue a public statement directly addressing the criticism surrounding her collaboration with Morgan Wallen. This silence has further fueled speculation and intensified the negative reactions. The lack of a clear response leaves many wondering about her understanding of the ethical implications involved and her commitment to her fanbase. A public response could help mitigate the damage, but the current silence arguably adds to the controversy surrounding the Tate McRae Morgan Wallen collaboration.

<h2>The Implications for Both Artists' Careers</h2>

The Tate McRae Morgan Wallen collaboration carries significant implications for both artists’ careers, both short-term and long-term.

<h3>Potential Short-Term and Long-Term Effects on Wallen's Career</h3>

For Wallen, the collaboration could be seen as an attempt to rehabilitate his image and reach a wider audience. However, the overwhelmingly negative response could counteract any potential benefits, reinforcing the negative perception that continues to surround him. The long-term impact remains uncertain, but the collaboration risks solidifying his image as a controversial figure in the music industry.

<h3>Potential Short-Term and Long-Term Effects on McRae's Career</h3>

The collaboration poses considerable risks for McRae's career, especially considering her younger demographic and the potential alienation of fans. The negative publicity could damage her image and lead to a loss of fans, impacting future collaborations and endorsements. While the short-term benefits might include increased exposure, the long-term consequences of associating herself with a controversial figure could significantly outweigh the immediate gains. The Tate McRae Morgan Wallen collaboration highlights the complex trade-off between potential short-term success and long-term reputational risk.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

The Tate McRae and Morgan Wallen collaboration on "What I Want" has ignited a firestorm of controversy, primarily due to Wallen's past transgressions. The significant backlash against McRae highlights the complexities of navigating public perception and the potentially devastating long-term implications of collaborations with controversial figures. This situation serves as a cautionary tale for artists considering collaborations and underscores the crucial importance of carefully considering ethical implications before entering into such partnerships. The Tate McRae Morgan Wallen collaboration raises important questions about accountability and the responsibility artists have to their fans and the broader public.

What are your thoughts on the Tate McRae Morgan Wallen collaboration? Share your opinions on the Tate McRae Morgan Wallen collaboration in the comments below! Let's discuss the ethical implications of this controversial musical pairing.