Patricia Sanchez of Grimy Goods wrote: "While it may be hard for some to put into words the anger, frustration or pain felt after witnessing the death of George Floyd, yet another innocent, black individual lost to a deep and systemic issue in our society, H.E.R.

finds the strength and wherewithal to transcend her anger into a meaningful and eloquent piece of protest art.

"[2] Elizabeth Aubrey of NME called the song "powerful",[3] while Billboard described the single as "moving".

's "I Can't Breathe" was released on June 26, 2020, on YouTube, and directed by Shane Adams.

The music video has the song accompanying footage of different marches around the world protesting police brutality and systemic racism.