Rising Star Miles Caton Joins Columbia Records and Debuts ‘Don’t Hate Me’
A New Chapter for Miles Caton
The landscape of modern R&B continues to evolve, and 21-year-old multi-hyphenate Miles Caton is positioning himself at the forefront of this shift. Following a breakout period defined by his acclaimed performance in the blockbuster film Sinners, Caton has officially announced his signing to the legendary Columbia Records. This partnership places him alongside a prestigious roster of global icons, including Beyoncé, Adele, and Leon Bridges, signaling a major endorsement of his artistic trajectory.
Caton’s transition from screen to studio has been marked by a deliberate focus on emotional depth and vocal precision. His latest offering, the major-label debut single “Don’t Hate Me,” serves as a testament to his growth as a songwriter and performer. Produced by the acclaimed JT Daly, the track is a masterclass in minimalist R&B, utilizing a piano-driven arrangement to anchor a narrative of vulnerability and accountability.
Deconstructing ‘Don’t Hate Me’
“Don’t Hate Me” is not merely a song; it is an honest, unflinching examination of a relationship struggling to find equilibrium. Caton’s lyrics navigate the complexities of being the source of a partner’s frustration, acknowledging his own shortcomings while pleading for understanding. The chorus—”Don’t hate me / I know this heart of mine it drives you crazy / You want a promise, but I’m just a maybe”—captures the quintessential tension of modern romance, where the desire for connection often clashes with the fear of commitment.
The accompanying music video, directed by Geoff Sean Levy, complements the song’s somber tone with a visual aesthetic that feels both intimate and cinematic. By stripping away the spectacle often associated with major-label debuts, Caton allows the raw emotion of the performance to take center stage, proving that he is as comfortable in the recording booth as he is on a film set.
A Rapid Rise to Prominence
Caton’s ascent has been nothing short of meteoric. His role as Sammie Moore in Ryan Coogler’s Sinners earned him widespread critical acclaim, including the Outstanding Breakthrough Performance award at the 2026 NAACP Image Awards and the Best Young Actor honor at the Critics’ Choice Awards. The film, which also starred Michael B. Jordan, became a cultural touchstone, and Caton’s contributions to the Grammy-winning soundtrack—most notably the Raphael Saadiq-penned “I Lied to You”—demonstrated his ability to hold his own among industry veterans.
Before his major-label breakthrough, Caton laid the groundwork for his musical career with the independent release of “Somethin” in July 2025. That track established his signature sound: a blend of classic soul sensibilities and contemporary production techniques. With the backing of Columbia Records, he is now poised to expand his reach and solidify his status as a formidable force in the music industry.
As he balances his burgeoning acting career with his musical ambitions, Caton remains focused on authenticity. Whether he is portraying a character on screen or pouring his heart into a ballad, his commitment to storytelling remains the common thread. Fans can stream “Don’t Hate Me” now as he prepares for what promises to be a defining year in his career.