Global music icon Jackson Wang has once again captivated audiences with the release of his powerful new single, “Hate to Love,” which dropped on June 6, 2025. The emotionally charged track is a preview of his highly anticipated self-produced album, MAGICMAN 2, also set for release on July 18, 2025.
“Hate to Love”: A Vulnerable Sonic Journey
The official music video for “Hate to Love” gained massive traction, racking up 9.4 million views within its first week. And at the time of writing, the video has over 13 million views on YouTube.
The haunting visual showcases Jackson Wang’s alter ego, MAGICMAN, surrounded by darkness—symbolizing isolation, self-reflection, and the emotional release that comes with facing your own truth.
“I’ve always questioned when I’m going to find love… but maybe the question is, ‘when am I going to love myself?’”
Jackson Wang.
The track explores heartbreak, self-awareness, and the courage it takes to grow through emotional pain rather than escape it. With slow-burning synths and minimalist production, “Hate to Love” highlights Jackson’s evolution not only as a performer but also as a storyteller.
Critical Praise: Haunting, Honest, and Introspective
Music reviewers and media outlets have lauded the single for its raw emotional depth and artistic direction:
Clash Music describes the track as “a meditation on openness, and what it takes to reach a space where you could be honest with yourself.”
Stardust Magazine calls it “one of his most vulnerable and direct tracks to date… stripping away pretense in both sound and message.”
Stereoboard highlights its dreamy, synth-pop sound and reinforces Jackson’s introspective lyricism. They describes it as “a slow, contemplative and dreamy synth-pop track that deals with themes of love and betrayal with maturity and restraint.”
Meanwhile, Jackson Wang’s fanbase has responded with deep appreciation and empathy, especially on social platforms like Reddit (r/GOT7). Some of the heartfelt reactions include:
- “This song definitely cut deep… Each song that he drops makes me anticipate the full album even more.”
- “I truly hope that with this album, Jackson can finally release the pain from the betrayal.”
MAGICMAN 2 Drops July 18: Entirely Produced by Jackson Wang
All tracks on MAGICMAN 2 are inspired by Jackson’s personal diary, revealing his most intimate thoughts and emotional struggles. The album is:
- Fully self-produced
- Lyrically autobiographical
- Designed to reflect Jackson’s personal growth and healing
Pre-orders for the album are now live on his official website: jackson-wang.com
Why “Hate to Love” Matters
“Hate to Love” is a defining moment in Jackson Wang’s musical and artistic journey. It marks his transition from performer to fully independent creator, offering audiences a raw and resonant look at life behind the spotlight.
By choosing to lead with honesty, pain, and self-exploration, Jackson invites listeners to embark on their own emotional journey—with no filters, no facade.
Connect with the author Jessica H. on LinkedIn
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His music never fails. Jackson Wang!