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Photo: Bảo Ngô

mxmtoon is throwing her 10-gallon hat in the country craze with a new confessional breakup bop, “i hate texas.” Don’t let the title mistake you, the track is actually an ode to the wide open spaces of the Lone Star State and how they make saying goodbye a little bit easier. The young singer-songwriter is known for her vulnerable songwriting and with her first solo release of the year, she’s evolving within the parameters of the sound fans have loved for years. After playing the track to lucky crowds as support on AJR’s 'The Maybe Man tour,' “i hate texas” is finally here to bump all summer long.

The country influence on this track is strong but still subtle enough to seamlessly blend into mxmtoon’s signature style. “i hate texas” details the daunting task of reclaiming life after a breakup, which includes leaving your house and re-entering the world after the isolation stage of the healing process. She sings, “And I'm wanting change so bad that I'll go Southern,” indicating the willingness to do anything to avoid running into her dreaded ex.

In the aftermath of heartbreak, Texas is a comforting change because “the exits have more room to run away from you.” It’s a unique spin on multiple classic tropes, claiming mxmtoon’s own specific circumstance while staying universal for every listener. mxmtoon’s delivery stays true to familiarity, with only a slight twang to complement the instrumental. The cadence of the chorus feels reminiscent of classic country, integrating the theme into her singular storytelling style. It’s a welcome experiment, landing authentically alongside mxmtoon’s cheeky lyricism and honesty.

We’re eager to find out if this is leading to a new project from the talented artist, but for now we’ll be throwing our cowboy boots on and playing “i hate texas” on repeat to close out the summer season.

watch the "I hate texas visualizer" below: