Tate McRae became known as one of the top 10 contestants on the renowned dance show So You Think You Can Dance. Her journey later included dancing with Justin Bieber and competing in other events. That’s how many remember Tate McRae—a young dancer from Calgary. But that little girl grew up into a talented, successful dancer who has also made a name for herself as a singer, songwriter, and actress. Calgary Ski reveals more about her inspiring journey.
A 12-Year-Old Girl from Calgary Who Rose to Fame
In 2016, Tate McRae (full name Tatum Rosner McRae) gained recognition through the reality show So You Think You Can Dance, which marked the beginning of her career and the end of her childhood.
Tate attended the Alberta Ballet School in Canada, focusing primarily on contemporary dance while also studying ballet and hip-hop. She started dancing at the age of six and began competing and winning awards by the age of eight.
She was named one of the show’s best contestants, performing with passion and joy. Project judge Paula Abdul praised her touching and flawless performance, even calling Tate a “gift from God”—a compliment the young dancer never expected.
Her path to success wasn’t easy and required immense hard work. Tate’s days began with ballet exercises before heading to school. Auditioning for the legendary show demanded rigorous preparation, and her efforts paid off.
The audition process in New York was intense, involving multiple days of prepared dances and interviews before getting the opportunity to perform for the judges.
In addition to her training at the Alberta Ballet School, Tate also participated in the elite “YYC Dance Project” program, which took her to the United States for competitions.
More Than Just Dance
Tate appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and starred in the music video for the Canadian band Walk Off the Earth’s song Rule the World.
She also had the chance to perform on stage with Justin Bieber, her favorite artist at the time. Tate described the experience as surreal and unforgettable, dancing alongside a star of his magnitude.
“One Day”
Tate’s 2019 hit song One Day skyrocketed her to fame. Her journey as a singer and dancer began in 2011 when she started a YouTube channel to share her dance videos.
In 2013, she voiced a character in the Nickelodeon animated series Lalaloopsy, lending her voice to Spot Splatter Splash. That same year, Tate was named “Mini Best Dancer” at the Dance Awards.
She even tried acting, with a cameo in the movie Annie (2014) and a voice role in Lalaloopsy Ponies: The Big Show.
In 2014, Tate joined Dancing with the Stars in the U.S., and her dance career gained momentum in 2015 when she participated in So You Think You Can Dance: The Next Generation.
Although her early years were focused on dance, Tate’s music career started to flourish. Her single One Day was a clear indication that she was on the right path.
Signing with a Record Label
Following the success of One Day, Tate released more songs, including Dear Ex Best Friends and Dear Parents.
In 2019, Tate signed with RCA Records, leading to the release of her first EP, All the Things I Never Said. She followed this with a second EP in 2020 and two new singles in 2021.
Career Highlights: Year by Year
- 2013: Tate began voice acting, earning recognition for her talent.
- 2015: She received a scholarship with the Berlin State Ballet, winning silver and bronze medals at the Youth America Grand Prix.
- 2017: Tate’s debut single went viral, and fans remain captivated by One Day.
- 2018: She won her third Dance Award.
- 2020: Her debut EP was released, followed by Too Young to Be Sad in 2021, which became a favorite among female listeners.
Did You Know?
- In 2020, Tate was included in Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list as the youngest musician.
- She performed multiple times with Justin Bieber during his Purpose World Tour.
- Tate admires British singer Dua Lipa and considers her a role model.
- She has a fear of complete darkness and never sleeps without some light.
- Her go-to makeup essentials are bronzer and mascara; she avoids full-face makeup.
- Tate loves playing with her dog and lists Brussels sprouts as her favorite food.
Personal Life
Fans are always curious about celebrity relationships. In 2019, Tate was reported to be dating Johnny Haider, a fellow Calgarian who worked as an investment banking analyst and video director for her song You Broke Me First. The couple eventually split.
In 2021, Tate began dating Cole Sillinger, a professional hockey player.
Despite her busy schedule of filming, traveling, and creating videos, Tate prioritizes her workouts. Since childhood, training has been a central part of her life.
Tate works out daily, combining gym sessions, resistance band exercises, and other training routines. She also practices ballet in her basement, with workouts lasting around two hours. She trains five days a week and rests for two, with her routine including:
- Ballet/dance practice
- Strength training
- Pilates
Her commitment to a healthy diet, with minimal junk food, helps her stay in top shape.
Why Fans Love Tate McRae
Tate’s dedication, determination, and vision for her career have allowed her to achieve incredible success at a young age. She remains committed to her craft, which endears her to her audience.
Known for her spiritual side, Tate believes in luck and wears the same accessory during performances and videos, convinced it brings her good fortune.
Loyalty is a value Tate treasures above all, and she surrounds herself with people she trusts and loves.
Her inspiration and drive continue to fuel her projects, leaving fans eager for what’s next.