Tate McRae Faces Backlash Over Collaboration With Morgan Wallen On "What's Wrong"

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on May 29, 2025

4.9

Share

Morgan Wallen's Past Controversies and Their Impact

Morgan Wallen's career has been punctuated by several highly publicized controversies. Most notably, a video surfaced in 2021 showing him using a racial slur, resulting in widespread condemnation and the temporary removal of his music from many radio stations and streaming platforms. This incident, and others involving problematic behavior, significantly damaged his public image and led to a period of professional repercussions.

• Specific examples of past controversies: The use of a racial slur, public intoxication incidents, and other instances of disruptive behavior.
• Reactions from the public and media: Widespread condemnation from fans, media outlets, and industry figures; calls for boycotts and the removal of his music from various platforms.
• Impact on his previous collaborations: While some collaborations weathered the storm, others faced renewed scrutiny and criticism in light of his controversies.

Fan Reactions to the "What's Wrong" Collaboration

The reaction to the "What's Wrong" collaboration has been sharply divided. Social media platforms are awash with opinions, ranging from outrage to staunch support. Many fans of Tate McRae expressed disappointment and anger, arguing that her collaboration with Wallen undermines her image and the positive messages she typically promotes. Others, however, defended the decision, emphasizing the importance of separating the art from the artist.

• Examples of negative comments and criticisms: Accusations of hypocrisy, betrayal of fans' trust, and supporting harmful behavior.
• Examples of supportive comments and defenses: Arguments that collaborating doesn't endorse past actions, focus on the music's quality, and the potential for positive change.
• Discussion on the reasons behind the negative responses: The perceived insensitivity to victims of racism, the normalization of problematic behavior, and the broader context of cancel culture.

Tate McRae's Response and Public Image

As of yet, Tate McRae hasn’t issued a direct public statement addressing the backlash against the "What's Wrong" collaboration. This silence, however, adds another layer to the controversy. The lack of a clear response allows speculation to flourish, potentially damaging her public image and long-term career prospects.

• Potential benefits of the collaboration: Increased exposure to a wider audience, potential chart success, and the opportunity to work with a highly successful artist.
• Potential risks to her public image and career: Alienating a significant portion of her fanbase, damage to her reputation as a positive role model, and long-term impact on brand deals and future collaborations.
• Comparison to similar situations with other artists: Many artists have faced similar dilemmas when considering collaborations with controversial figures, highlighting the complex ethical considerations at play.

The Music Itself and Its Reception

"What's Wrong" itself is a pop song with a melancholic tone. While the lyrics don't directly address Wallen's past controversies, the collaboration itself fuels the debate. The song's overall quality and reception are further points of contention, with some arguing its merits are overshadowed by the controversy.

• Analysis of the song's lyrics and their possible interpretations: Examining the lyrical themes and whether they relate to the surrounding controversy.
• Critical reception of the song's musicality: Evaluating the song's production, melody, and overall musical quality independent of the controversy.
• Comparison to other songs by both artists: Comparing "What's Wrong" to Tate McRae and Morgan Wallen's previous works to analyze stylistic consistency and potential artistic compromises.

The Broader Discussion on Collaboration and Cancel Culture

The Tate McRae and Morgan Wallen collaboration highlights the ongoing debate surrounding collaboration with controversial artists and the dynamics of "cancel culture." The question of whether artists should be allowed to rehabilitate their image through collaboration remains a topic of intense discussion.

• Arguments for and against collaborating with controversial figures: Exploring the perspectives of artistic freedom versus accountability and the potential for redemption versus the normalization of harmful behavior.
• Examples of similar collaborations that faced similar backlash: Analyzing similar situations in the music industry to understand the broader context and impact of such collaborations.
• Long-term implications for the music industry and artists: Considering the potential effects on future collaborations, the evolution of cancel culture, and the responsibility of artists and the industry to address ethical concerns.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding Tate McRae and Morgan Wallen's "What's Wrong" collaboration underscores the complexities of artistic partnerships in the age of social media and heightened accountability. The varied responses from fans, the impact on both artists' careers, and the broader discussion around cancel culture highlight the multifaceted nature of this situation. While the song's musical merit is a point of discussion, it remains undeniably intertwined with the ethical considerations surrounding the collaboration itself. What are your thoughts on the controversy surrounding Tate McRae and Morgan Wallen's "What's Wrong" collaboration? Share your opinion in the comments below!