British singer and songwriter Olivia Dean really hit a stride when she released “Man I Need” from her second studio album. The song is forward and flirtatious about finding love.
Released on August 15, 2025, “Man I Need” became Olivia Dean’s most successful single to date, reaching #4 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and peaking at #1 in the UK, New Zealand, Ireland, and Australia. The song reached double platinum with over 1 million copies sold in the UK and platinum in the US with 1 million copies sold. “Man I Need” was also rated across multiple lists as one of the best songs of 2025.
The song was released as the third single from Olivia Dean’s second studio album, ‘The Art of Loving.’ The album itself reached #1 in music charts in the UK and #4 on the US Billboard 200 chart.
In an interview with Rolling Stone magazine, Olivia Dean talked about the meaning behind the lyrics: “‘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!”
Listen to “Man I Need” by Olivia Dean
Olivia Dean “Man I Need” Lyrics Meaning and Song Review
The song starts with the singer inviting open communication. It’s been so long since she has been waiting for love, and now there is no time to waste.
Looks like we’re making up for lost time
Need you to spell it out for me
The kind of romance that’s sparking between them can only be compared to alchemy. He is on her mind all day. There is nothing to wait around for.
Already gave you the time and the place
So, don’t be shy
She is ready to take the leap. She has already told him the time and the place to meet. Now he just needs to man up and take the leap.
Mm, talk to me, talk to me
Be the man that I need, baby
In the second verse of the song, Olivia Dean wants to believe he feels the same way about her. But sometimes she doesn’t really know. This is the reason why she is inviting him to talk with her.
Olivia Dean invites her lover to get on the same page with her. She has had enough of the game of cat and mouse. It’s time to dance.
The song captures the sweet emotions of the singer being uncontrollably in love and not wanting any longer to express and experience the full force of connection. The song is catchy and hits all the right notes when it comes to lyrics, vocals, and delivery.
Let us hear what you think about this song in the comments below. Read the complete lyrics to the song on Genius.