Tate McRae’s second studio album, Think Later, released on December 8, 2023, through RCA Records, marks a significant milestone in her musical career. Co-executive produced by the renowned Ryan Tedder, the album reflects McRae’s growth and evolution as an artist. Following the commercial success of her debut studio album, I Used to Think I Could Fly (2022), McRae’s sophomore effort delves deeper into themes of love, intuition, and raw emotion, presenting a more polished and mature sound. The album’s promotion was spearheaded by three singles: “Greedy,” “Exes,” and “Run for the Hills,” each contributing to the album’s anticipation and success.
The lead single, “Greedy,” released on September 15, 2023, quickly became a sensation. It not only peaked atop the Canadian Hot 100 but also reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100, marking McRae’s most commercially successful single to date. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics resonated widely, setting the stage for the album’s release. “Exes,” the second single, dropped on November 17, 2023, and followed suit with impressive chart performance, peaking at number nine in Canada and number 34 in the United States. The third single, “Run for the Hills,” was released on December 8, 2023, alongside the album, further generating excitement among fans.
In conjunction with the album release, McRae announced her extensive Think Later World Tour, set to span Europe, North America, and Oceania from April to November 2024. The tour, comprising 53 dates, underscores her growing international appeal and dedication to engaging with her global fanbase. McRae’s promotional efforts included high-profile television performances, beginning with her debut performance of “Greedy” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on October 26, 2023. She continued to captivate audiences with performances on Saturday Night Live, the Billboard Music Awards, and the Jingle Bell Ball, solidifying her presence in the music industry.
Think Later was met with favorable critical reception, with reviewers praising McRae’s lyrical depth and vocal prowess. The album debuted at number four on the US Billboard 200, earning 66,000 album-equivalent units in its first week, including 8,000 pure album sales. This achievement marked McRae’s first top-ten album in the United States, showcasing her growing popularity and influence. In her home country of Canada, the album debuted at number three, reaffirming her strong fanbase and consistent success.
Internationally, Think Later enjoyed widespread acclaim, reaching the top five in several countries. In the UK, the album debuted at number five on the UK Albums Chart, while in Australia, it peaked at number two, its highest position globally. The album also secured top-five positions in Belgium, New Zealand, and Norway, and entered the top ten in the Netherlands, Ireland, and Switzerland. This widespread success highlights McRae’s ability to connect with diverse audiences and her versatility as an artist.
Thematically, Think Later explores the complexities of love, intuition, and emotional vulnerability. McRae described the album-writing process as one of the most stressful yet exhilarating experiences of her life, emphasizing her shift towards leading with intuition and heart. The album’s lyrical content reflects this personal journey, inviting listeners to resonate with the universal themes of falling in love and navigating the ensuing emotional landscape. McRae’s hope is that her audience can feel the raw emotions and authenticity that she poured into the album, making Think Later a deeply personal and relatable work.
Think Later not only solidifies Tate McRae’s status as a formidable force in the music industry but also showcases her artistic maturity and versatility. Through its compelling singles, extensive promotional campaign, and successful world tour, the album stands as a testament to McRae’s talent and dedication to her craft. As she continues to evolve, her ability to connect with audiences worldwide ensures that her star will only continue to rise.