"Man I Need" is a song by English singer-songwriter Olivia Dean, released on 15 August 2025 as the third single from her second studio album, The Art of Loving.[1][2][3] The song peaked inside the top ten in Australia, Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom. In the UK, it became her third top-ten entry of the year and her highest peak after reaching number two on the charts.[4]
Background and release
Universal Music announced the single on 15 August 2025, positioning it as the third preview from Dean’s album The Art of Loving and confirming an accompanying music video.[5] Independent music media also reported the release and its placement within the album campaign.[6][7] Upon release, Dean said: "'Man I Need' is a song about knowing how you deserve to be loved and not being afraid to ask for it. It's forward, sexy, fun. It's made for dancing."[1]
Lyrics and meaning
In interviews and label materials, Olivia Dean described "Man I Need" as a song about knowing how you deserve to be loved and not being afraid to ask for it, adding that it was made for dancing.[8][9][10] Critics noted that the track’s assertive lyrical appeal is carried by an upbeat, dance-oriented arrangement that blends elements of pop, R&B and gospel.[11]
Music video
The music video for "Man I Need" was released alongside the single and was directed by Jake Erland.[12] Coverage described a studio-lot setting in which set pieces rotate around Dean as different potential partners pass by, reinforcing the song’s lyrical request for clarity and connection.[13]
