Lorde is poised to delve into complex themes of identity with her upcoming single “Man of the Year,” which is set to be released on Wednesday, May 28. The singer recently shared a teaser for the music video on Instagram, featuring a topless Lorde spinning in a swivel chair as she questions, “Who’s gonna love me like this?” This snippet showcases her exploration of personal and gender-related themes, which has been a focal point in her recent work.
The new track follows her previous single, “What Was That,” from her anticipated album titled Virgin, scheduled for release in June. In an enlightening interview with Rolling Stone, Lorde revealed that “Man of the Year” is particularly special to her, as it reflects her evolving understanding of gender identity—something she began to unpack after she stopped taking oral contraceptives. This pivotal moment led her to feel more liberated from traditional notions of femininity.
Lorde described the experience of using duct tape to bind her chest in an effort to embody her gender identity at that moment, indicating a deeper personal connection to her art. On the cover of the single, she embraces this vision with a bold and straightforward image, wearing silver tape and jeans.
The singer clarified that while she primarily uses “she” and “her” pronouns, there are days when she relates more to the masculine aspect of her identity—she describes herself as a woman except on days she feels more like a man. This nuanced approach to gender identity demonstrates her reluctance to be boxed in by labels.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of “Man of the Year,” which promises to be a thought-provoking addition to Lorde’s discography. The blend of personal reflection and broader social commentary in her work continues to resonate with many, highlighting the importance of embracing one’s identity in its many forms.