Sarantos’ latest single, “Hate to See You Happy,” released in October 2024, offers a compelling blend of theater, humor, and heartbreak, providing a glimpse into the emotional complexity of moving on from a relationship. Known for his relentless creative output — monthly songs, music videos, and charitable efforts — Sarantos continues his mission to combine personal storytelling with social impact. With a track like this, inspired by Andrew Lloyd Webber’s dramatic flair, he captures the universal pain of seeing an ex thrive while you’re left behind, tangled in memories.
From the very first note, “Hate to See You Happy” signals a dramatic, almost Broadway-esque sensibility that amplifies its emotional stakes. The song’s intro immediately sets the tone with lines like, “Oh look what you’ve done to me,” reflecting the vulnerability and bitterness that define the track. The orchestral arrangement that accompanies these feelings feels larger-than-life, tipping its hat to Sarantos’ theatrical inspiration. There’s a certain theatricality not just in the melody but in the way the lyrics unfold — with vivid imagery of a shipwrecked relationship and an ex sailing away toward new horizons, leaving the protagonist adrift in a sea of unresolved emotions.
Lyrically, Sarantos dives deep into this torment with a sense of playful melancholy. The chorus, with its almost sarcastic repetition of “Happy without me,” has a biting, cheeky quality that keeps the track from drowning in sorrow. It’s a clever move — the dark humor helps soften the song’s raw honesty, making the feelings of jealousy and lingering attachment feel relatable rather than overwhelming. Sarantos’ use of humor and drama, as he pointed out in interviews, is a tool to lighten the emotional blow, but at the core of the song lies a deeply personal narrative that resonates with anyone who’s had to watch an ex seemingly move on with ease.
The verses in “Hate to See You Happy” unfold like scenes in a musical, with Sarantos taking on the role of the heartbroken protagonist. The first verse reflects the nostalgia of love’s early days, “My life began the day we met / We danced among the stars,” only to juxtapose this joy with the cold realization of an irreparable fracture, “Till we hit an iceberg.” The metaphoric shipwreck makes the emotional fallout feel tangible. He continues this theme in the second verse, where he’s stuck “re-reading pages” while his ex moves on to new lovers — all while he stubbornly remains stuck in the past.
Musically, Sarantos takes a grand, cinematic approach. The track features swelling strings and a delicate balance between softer, more intimate moments and larger, cathartic outbursts. His vocal performance is expressive, capturing the irony of the situation with dramatic flair but without losing its emotional core. The repetitive refrain, “I hate to see her happy,” is one of those deceptively simple hooks that stick with you long after the song ends, giving voice to a feeling many wouldn’t admit but can instantly recognize.
The accompanying music video, which further emphasizes the theme of bittersweet reflection, blends nostalgia with vibrant theatricality. It depicts Sarantos wandering through the memories of a lost relationship while his ex moves forward, free from the past that still binds him. Visually, it’s a creative extension of the song’s narrative, using symbolism to underscore the weight of holding on to someone who’s already let go.
Sarantos’ creative output is as noteworthy as his music itself. For the last decade, he has released a steady stream of monthly singles, each paired with lyric videos, music videos, and even corresponding charitable efforts. This particular track is tied to Action for Happiness, a charity aimed at promoting emotional well-being. It aligns with Sarantos’ long-standing tradition of weaving a sense of purpose and philanthropy into his artistry, giving his fans more than just music — but a reason to engage beyond the notes.
While “Hate to See You Happy” is a standalone single, it offers an exciting glimpse into Sarantos’ future project — a musical he’s been quietly developing. If this track is any indication, fans can expect a mix of heart-on-sleeve lyricism, theatrical soundscapes, and a deep exploration of the emotional messiness that defines love and loss.
Ultimately, Sarantos’ latest release is an emotionally intelligent and cleverly crafted track. It combines elements of musical theater, pop, and personal introspection in a way that feels lighthearted and deeply sincere, showing once again that he knows how to turn pain into art — and laughter into healing.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
