Tate McRae’s meteoric rise in the pop and R&B scene continues with the release of her newest single, “Sports Car,” which drops on January 24, 2025. This track serves as the seventh single from her upcoming album, So Close to What, set to be released on February 21, 2025. Known for her emotive lyrics and a blend of sultry vocals with upbeat melodies, McRae effortlessly fuses those elements once again to craft a song that captures the thrilling, spontaneous energy of a night out.
“Sports Car” is an irresistible pop track that portrays a sense of desire, escapism, and adventure, bringing to life an electric atmosphere where passion meets freedom. In the context of So Close to What, it’s a perfect fit, following the same theme of exploring both vulnerability and boldness in relationships. Let’s break down this exciting new single and what it means for McRae’s evolving sound and her place in the current musical landscape.
The Power of the “Sports Car” Metaphor
From the opening, it’s clear that “Sports Car” doesn’t just reference the sleek, fast, and glamorous vehicle; it’s a metaphor for high-speed romance, full of adrenaline and temptation. The intro immediately grabs attention with the whisper of “Illegal,” setting a tone that suggests the thrill of doing something forbidden and the excitement that comes with it. This theme of indulgence—both in the literal and metaphorical sense—is carried throughout the song, where the idea of a sports car symbolizes the desire to be swept away in an exhilarating ride, both physically and emotionally.
In the first verse, McRae sings:
“Hey, cute jeans (Jeans)
Take mine off me (Me)
Oh, golly gee (Gee)
I can’t take no more, I’m goin’ weak in my knees
Where’d you put those keys?
We can share one seat (Seat)
We can share one seat”
These lyrics introduce the song’s playful, flirtatious vibe, hinting at a spontaneous connection that’s growing too irresistible to resist. The “sports car” is less of an object and more of a vessel for the fleeting intensity of the moment. McRae doesn’t hesitate to throw herself into the experience, inviting her partner to share the space in the car—both literally and metaphorically.
Desire and Freedom in the Pre-Chorus
In the pre-chorus, McRae leans into the push-pull dynamic of attraction and the need for release, singing:
“In the alley, in the back
In the center of this room
With the windows rolled down
Boy, don’t make me choose”
Here, the imagery of intimacy in a variety of places—an alley, the back of a car, or in a room—amplifies the desire for freedom and spontaneous choices that fuel the track’s seductive undertone. The mention of “windows rolled down” suggests a release of control, embracing the rush of the wind and the uncertainty of what’s next. It’s a heady mix of feeling alive and giving in to the moment.
The Chorus: A Declaration of Temptation
The chorus is undeniably the catchiest part of the song. It’s both a declaration of lust and an invitation to indulge in a carefree, exhilarating escape. McRae sings with confident yet playful energy:
“I think you know what this is
I think you wanna, uh
No, you ain’t got no Mrs.
Oh, but you got a sports car
We can uh-uh in it
While you drive it real far
Yeah, you know what this is
Yeah, you know what this is”
These lyrics are undeniably cheeky, and the repetitive chorus only heightens the sense of inevitability and urgency. There’s a knowing tension here, as McRae sings about a connection that’s too strong to be ignored. The sports car is now symbolic of the journey they’re about to take—one that involves lust, adventure, and living for the moment.
Emotional Complexity in the Second Verse
In the second verse, McRae subtly introduces layers of vulnerability amidst the excitement:
“Pretty blue streetlights (Lights)
And my hazel eyes (Eyes)
And if it feels right (Right)
We could go again like three, four times”
Here, McRae paints a more intimate picture, not just of the thrilling physical experience, but of the connection with her partner that feels both dangerous and comforting at the same time. The mention of “pretty blue streetlights” and “hazel eyes” evokes a sense of intimacy, making it clear that the attraction isn’t just physical but emotional. The idea of repeating the experience “three, four times” further emphasizes the longing and the intensity of the night.
The Sports Car: A Symbol of Freedom and Escapism
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the sports car is more than just a prop. It represents an escape from the usual boundaries and constraints of daily life. The metaphor for breaking free of limitations is central to the narrative of So Close to What, as McRae continues to explore themes of liberation, independence, and taking risks. In “Sports Car,” there’s a palpable sense of living in the moment, of throwing caution to the wind, and of embracing the unknown.
This song fits right into McRae’s discography, which often revolves around themes of youthful recklessness, emotional vulnerability, and personal liberation. Tracks like “2 Hands” and “It’s Ok, I’m Ok” showcase her ability to write about relationships with a mix of defiance and introspection. “Sports Car” taps into a more spontaneous and carefree energy, but it’s still rooted in the emotional depth that McRae has become known for.
McRae’s Growth and Evolving Sound
In “Sports Car,” McRae further establishes her signature blend of sultry pop and R&B. The production is slick, with a driving beat and catchy melody that matches the song’s theme of high-octane energy. However, it’s the lyrical content that makes it stand out. McRae doesn’t just sing about love or lust; she explores the complexities of these emotions, blending them with a sense of freedom and boldness that listeners are drawn to.
What stands out in So Close to What as a whole is McRae’s ability to seamlessly blend youthful exuberance with a deeper sense of introspection. “Sports Car” is a perfect example of this balance—on the surface, it’s a fun, upbeat track about spontaneity, but it also taps into something more emotional, capturing a feeling of escapism and longing. McRae’s lyrical maturity is evident, as she continues to refine her sound while exploring the complexities of relationships.
A Bright Future for McRae
As McRae continues to carve her path in the music world, So Close to What promises to be a defining album. With the release of “Sports Car,” she demonstrates not only her ability to create infectious pop tunes but also her skill in exploring complex emotional landscapes. This track is an exhilarating ride that perfectly embodies McRae’s evolution as an artist—fusing vulnerability with boldness, and introspection with escapism.
As the album’s official release date, February 21, 2025, draws near, fans can expect more tracks that delve into similar themes of desire, independence, and youthful energy. “Sports Car” is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and emotionally charged album, cementing McRae’s place as one of the most dynamic voices in modern pop music.
