New Man

The song New Man by Ed Sheeran stands out for its bold lyrics and a fresh take on modern relationships. In this track, Sheeran addresses the experience of seeing an ex-partner start a new relationship, but from a humorous and somewhat sarcastic perspective. The idea of creating a "problematic guy anthem" arose from a conversation with Jessie Ware, who encouraged him to put his thoughts into a song. This approach allows him to explore the insecurities and quirks that arise when someone starts dating someone new, incorporating details that make the narrative both funny and relatable.

The recording of New Man took place in 2016 and was produced by Benny Blanco, who also co-wrote the song alongside Ammar Malik and Jessie Ware. Although it was initially thought to be an additional track on the album ÷, the record label insisted it be part of the main listing, demonstrating their confidence in its potential. The song, which blends R&B elements, is characterized by its catchy rhythm and creative use of language, including memorable lines that have drawn attention for their originality. In the end, it features Francis and the Lights, who contribute their distinctive touch to the production. Since its release, New Man reached number 5 on the UK singles chart and has been certified gold, reflecting its popularity and resonance with audiences.