Miranda Brooke makes a bold introduction with her debut single “Hater.” Akon’s brother and Def Jam A&R executive Bu Thiam signed the R&B singer to his Bu Vision/Def Jam imprint after interest from Pharrell and Jermaine Dupri.

The Chattanooga, Tennessee native, who counts TLC, Xscape, Aaliyah, and Missy Elliott among her favorites, is working on her debut album with hitmakers including JD and Bryan-Michael Cox.

She keeps it blunt on “Hater,” produced by Sham (Sak Pase). “It’s a song about ugly feelings,” explains Miranda. “It’s about jealousy, insecurity, and weakness, but it’s honest.”