BTS’ RM and eAeon Reunite to Explore Conflicted Emotions in ‘Don’t’

RM, leader of Grammy-nominated group BTS, and South Korean indie singer-songwriter eAeon first came together in 2018 to work on “BADBYE” off RM’s sophomore mixtape, Mono. Now, after nearly two years, the duo have reunited to blend their lyricism and musical capabilities on “Don’t,” the lead single off eAeon’s latest LP Fragile.

Collaborating on both composition and writing, RM and eAeon encapsulate the turmoils of an aching heart overwhelmed with grief and regret. Inspired by the age-old tale of a tragic love story, the record further expresses the need of delaying a break-up by looking back at the moments of peace and happiness the lovers once experienced. 

The music video mirrors the lyrics through striking montages showing a couple engaged in everyday activities. Despite the monotony, the couple seems happy and content– almost euphoric by the idea of having each other. These memories are soon overshadowed by the harsh reality where the couple finds it difficult to sustain the relationship as time passes. 

“Don’t” takes on an alt-rock route with soothing Eighties-inspired bass-synth sounds. The contrast between RM’s mellow, husky tone and eAeon’s breathy vocals brings the lyrics to life as they beg, “Don’t leave/ So much would collapse/ Don’t destroy us/ It’ll break you too/ Dont, Don’t leave/ Don’t throw away our everything/ Please don’t.”

The collaborative single comes just days after BTS announced their second English language track “Butter,” set to release on May 21st, 2021.