Tate McRae steps into her boldest pop era yet with "It's ok I'm ok," a track that merges early-2000s nostalgic styling with sharp, modern electronic-pop production. Directed by Hannah Lux Davis and choreographed by Sean Bankhead, the accompanying music video sparked widespread conversation for its raw energy, New York City street settings, and high-impact dance sequences. Fans dissecting the visual often look past the surface glamour to find a masterclass in modern pop presentation, drawing clear lines back to the Y2K icons who shaped the genre.
The video serves up a heavy dose of nostalgia, channeling the energetic music video aesthetics of early Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera. McRae struts through concrete canyons, commanding the screen with an effortless yet fierce stage presence. Instead of relying on a complex narrative arc, the visual prioritizes raw movement, striking fashion choices, and an unyielding attitude that matches the track's lyrical message of dismissal toward an ex and his new partner.
Behind the Scenes of the Visual Production
Bringing the video to life required precision planning and a collaborative creative ecosystem. Bankhead's choreography leans heavily into aggressive hip-hop and jazz-funk fusion, a style that has become a staple of McRae's brand since her breakout hit "greedy."
- Location Shooting: Filmed entirely on location in New York City, the video uses urban backdrops to ground its high-energy pop choreography in a gritty reality.
- Wardrobe and Styling: McRae cycles through several distinct Y2K-inspired looks, blending casual streetwear with high-fashion statement pieces.
- The Viral Arrest Scene: One of the most talked-about moments features an apparent arrest sequence where McRae's styling creates a striking visual illusion, generating substantial online chatter.
The production choices emphasize raw performance value over heavy CGI. By keeping the camera focused on tight footwork, sharp angles, and genuine street-level reactions, the crew built an atmosphere that feels both spontaneous and meticulously rehearsed. For another angle on this story, see the latest coverage from Reuters.
Lyrical Meaning and Songwriting Origins
Co-written with heavyweights like Ryan Tedder and produced by Ilya, the track itself stems from a surprisingly casual studio moment. McRae's habit of brushing off hunger or fatigue in the studio with the phrase "It's ok, I'm ok" eventually morphed into an earworm chorus.
Lyrically, the song flips the script on typical breakup angst. Rather than wallowing in heartbreak, McRae adopts an attitude of supreme indifference. She warns an ex's new partner that she has already seen his routine, delivering lines with a casual, spoken-word cadence that builds into an infectious hook. This thematic independence anchors the music video, giving McRae a narrative pedestal from which she can dance with absolute freedom.
Choreography and Performance Impact
Dance remains the core vehicle for McRae's artistic expression. Having trained extensively in contemporary and hip-hop dance before pivoting to pop superstardom, she uses physical movement to translate complex emotional states.
In "It's ok I'm ok," the choreography highlights transition fluidity. Her movements shift from sharp, isolated hits to expansive, sweeping formations alongside her backup dancers. This physical control draws comparisons to legendary pop performers who used movement to dictate the mood of a track rather than relying on standard background dancing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the music video for "It's ok I'm ok"?
Hannah Lux Davis directed the music video, bringing a sharp, stylized aesthetic that nods to early 2000s pop culture.
Who created the choreography for the video?
Renowned choreographer Sean Bankhead designed the routine, working closely with Tate McRae to craft the high-energy street dance sequences.
Where was the music video filmed?
The production took place on the streets of New York City, capturing urban backdrops that contrast with the polished choreography.
What album is "It's ok I'm ok" associated with?
The track serves as the lead single for Tate McRae's third studio album, So Close to What.
