The song was released to American country radio on March 12, 2018, serving as the second single for the album.

[2][3][4] Critics noted the 1950s influence on the song's sound and the way in which it continues a trend in country music for blending "classic soul melodies" with "sing-a-long worthy" lyrical arrangements.

[6] The song was originally not going to be recorded for the album, but after receiving a standing ovation for her performance of it at the Grand Ole Opry in August 2017, Ballerini and her label, Black River Entertainment decided to include "I Hate Love Songs" on the record.

[7] "I called my label," Ballerini told Sounds Like Nashville, "and I was like, 'I think we need to cut this song.

[9] After it was announced as a single, "I Hate Love Songs" entered the Country Airplay chart at number 59.