Meaning and origins of “I Used to Think I Could Fly”
“I Used to Think I Could Fly” is a reflective pop track by Canadian singer and choreographer Tate McRae, released in 2021. In the song, McRae addresses shifting self-perception, unmet expectations, and the emotional fallout of trying to meet others’ standards. The title conveys a loss of assumed certainty, moving from belief in limitless potential to confronting constraints and personal growth. While rooted in her lived experiences—particularly pressures in competitive creative fields—the song’s themes of resilience and reassessment resonate widely with young audiences navigating ambition and identity.
McRae co-wrote the song with producers and writers who helped shape its intimate yet anthemic sound, leading to strong engagement on streaming platforms and social media. Its release coincided with a pivotal moment in her career, amplifying her visibility and establishing her as a compelling storyteller in pop-driven contemporary music.
Context within Tate McRae’s artistic profile
Tate McRae first gained recognition as a dancer and choreographer, competing on reality television and collaborating with prominent artists before launching a solo music career. Her work balances performance and songwriting, often drawing from candid emotional experiences. “I Used to Think I Could Fly” fits into a broader narrative of artistic maturation, where McRae explores vulnerability alongside ambition. The track’s lyrical sincerity and production helped solidify her presence in the pop landscape beyond choreography, signaling a shift toward deeper autobiographical expression.
As an artist, McRae has consistently blended personal reflection with genre-forward pop sounds. This song marks an evolution in her public narrative—from a young performer seen primarily for technical skill to a multifaceted creator articulating nuanced perspectives on growth, setbacks, and self-worth.
Lyrical themes and interpretation
Self-expectation and pressure
At its core, the song addresses the weight of high personal expectations. McRae reflects on a past mindset where success seemed inevitable, capturing the tension between ambition and reality. Listeners often connect this to academic, athletic, or artistic pressures, making the song relatable across different backgrounds.
Growth through disillusionment
Rather than framing the realization as failure, the lyrics emphasize adaptive growth. The shift from “I thought” to acceptance of limits represents a mature acknowledgment that effort does not always yield the expected outcomes, yet progress can still emerge from reassessment.
Authenticity in storytelling
McRae’s direct, conversational style invites listeners into her mindset without heavy metaphor. This accessibility has strengthened her connection with audiences who value sincerity in an era of polished but distant pop narratives.
Career milestones and timeline
McRae’s trajectory from competitor to signed artist demonstrates sustained creative development. Key milestones highlight how “I Used to Think I Could Fly” fits within a longer journey of skill-building and brand evolution.
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 2016–2019 | Competitive dance and online choreography content | Built a foundation of technical credibility and audience engagement. |
| 2020 | “You Broke Me First” release | |
| 2021 | “I Used to Think I Could Fly” release | Broadened her narrative into personal storytelling; reinforced emotional depth in her catalog. |
| 2022–2023 | Headlining tours and industry collaborations | Demonstrated sustained momentum and expanded reach beyond digital-first audiences. |
Artist positioning and genre context
McRae occupies a hybrid space between pop sensibility and performance-driven background, which influences how audiences interpret her music. Her choreography experience informs her approach to song structure, often prioritizing rhythm, phrasing, and emotive delivery. This background supports a distinctive style that feels both precise and relatable. “I Used to Think I Could Fly” exemplifies this blend, combining accessible pop hooks with a vocal performance that emphasizes narrative clarity and emotional immediacy.
Impact and legacy considerations
While it is early to assess long-term legacy, the song has already contributed to shaping McRae’s public identity as an artist who turns personal growth into accessible pop. Its ongoing streaming performance and frequent inclusion in playlists suggest continued relevance. For listeners, the track remains a touchpoint for conversations about ambition, disappointment, and resilience. In her evolving catalog, it functions as a pivotal piece that bridges her performance-centric origins with her aspirations as a songwriter-led pop voice.
Quick comparison: Artistic phases
- Choreography-first phase: Emphasis on movement, collaboration, and technical showcase.
- Transition period: Gradual integration of songwriting and personal narrative into public output.
- Songwriting-forward phase (post-2021): Prioritizes autobiographical storytelling and genre-focused pop production.
Frequently asked questions
Below are concise answers to common questions about the song and McRae’s career context.
- What inspired “I Used to Think I Could Fly”? McRae has described it as reflecting on changed expectations and personal growth, though specific inspirations are often drawn from cumulative experiences rather than single events.
- Did the song impact her career trajectory? Yes—it helped transition her recognition from choreography to songwriting and performance, widening her audience and creative opportunities.
- How does this song fit her overall style? It aligns with her candid, pop-centered approach that balances melodic accessibility with reflective lyrics.
- Is the title metaphorical or literal? The title is metaphorical, representing a shift from assuming unlimited potential to recognizing realistic constraints and personal evolution.
- What milestones followed the release? Headlining tours, playlist placements, and continued streaming growth, reinforcing her presence in the pop landscape.