“I’m Not the Man I Used to Be” is a song by British band Fine Young Cannibals, released in August 1989 with “Motherless Child” on the B-side as a fifth single from their second (and last) album, The Raw & the Cooked. The song stands out for its laid-back, soulful feel and introspective lyrics, marking a departure from the more upbeat, dance-oriented tracks on the album.
“I’m Not the Man I Used to Be” features a mellow, downtempo groove with a strong influence of soul, jazz, and funk. The song is driven by a steady drum machine beat, soft keyboard riffs, and atmospheric background sounds, creating a dreamy, reflective mood. Roland Gift’s distinctive, smooth vocals add an emotional depth to the track, delivering the lyrics with a sense of regret and self-awareness.
The lyrics of the song are introspective, reflecting on personal change and growth. The narrator acknowledges that they have changed from who they once were, suggesting a sense of loss or transformation. Themes of regret, self-realization, and personal evolution are central to the song’s message, giving it a thoughtful and reflective tone.
“I’m Not the Man I Used to Be” reached No. 20 on the UK Singles Chart. It also charted in the U.S., where it reached No. 54 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 8 on the Billboard Dance Music chart.
The song remains one of Fine Young Cannibals’ standout tracks and is often praised for its soulful, reflective nature. While the band is best known for their more upbeat hits like “She Drives Me Crazy” and “Good Thing,” “I’m Not the Man I Used to Be” showcases a more contemplative side of their music, contributing to the band’s reputation for blending pop, soul, and alternative influences in their sound.