bad ones

Tate McRae's song "bad ones" delves into the emotional turmoil of repeatedly falling for the wrong people. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship where the protagonist feels manipulated and undervalued. Despite the partner's claims of missing her and wanting to be close, there's a recurring theme of selfishness and emotional manipulation. This creates a cycle of hope and disappointment, where the protagonist is drawn back in, only to be let down again.

The chorus, with its repetitive mention of "falling for the bad ones," highlights a pattern of attraction to individuals who ultimately bring sadness and frustration. This isn't just about one relationship but a series of them, suggesting a deeper, perhaps subconscious, inclination towards partners who are emotionally unavailable or damaging. The struggle to hold her ground and the feeling of being tied down by these relationships is a powerful metaphor for the internal conflict between wanting to break free and the pull of familiar, albeit harmful, patterns.

McRae's lyrics also touch on themes of self-worth and the impact of toxic relationships on one's confidence. The lines about being tricked into feeling inadequate and the frustration of being seen as someone who needs fixing resonate with many who have experienced similar dynamics. The song captures the pain of recognizing one's mistakes in love but also the difficulty in breaking free from them. It's a raw and honest portrayal of the complexities of love and the often painful journey of self-discovery and growth.