Brooklyn-born R&B artist and actor Miles Caton has just dropped his newest single, “Don’t Hate Me.”
“Don’t Hate Me” is an ethereal R&B ballad that explores a complicated relationship laced with commitment and trust issues. Miles appears to be self-aware that the way that he is showing up in the relationship is the cause of the fractured dynamic, making the song a painfully reflective track.
Miles’ resonant voice complements the cinematic and orchestral instrumentation of the song, creating a transcendent soundscape that audiences can drift away in.
The visuals in the music video perfectly depict the inner struggle Miles has with the relationship, as there is a version of him singing on stage, backstage in the wings, and in the audience throughout the video. The version of Miles that sings along in the audience appears to be the most vulnerable side of him, since it’s only when he is in the audience that he sheds a tear. The version of Miles that’s in the wings is more closed off and unattached. The Miles who is in the spotlight is seemingly Miles in his full form, with both the vulnerable and distant parts of him becoming one. His honesty about the dynamics of the relationship is fully poured out when he is in front of the microphone, flaws and all.
Ultimately, “Don’t Hate Me” is heart-wrenchingly beautiful, timeless, and a strong display of Caton’s raw talent as a musician.
The release comes after a whirlwind award season for Caton that wrapped up at the Oscars, with the movie Sinners winning four of the categories it was nominated for. Caton won many awards this season for his performance as Sammie (“Preacher Boy”) in his film debut, including the Critic’s Choice Award for Best Young Actor and the Image Award (NAACP) for Outstanding Breakout Performance in a Motion Picture.
It has been reported that “Don’t Hate Me” will be followed by an upcoming EP set to be released this summer.
