When Sting released "Englishman in New York" in 1987 as part of his second solo album, Nothing Like the Sun, few could have predicted the song’s enduring resonance. More than just a catchy tune with a jazzy backbone, the track is a layered tribute to individuality, cultural displacement, and the quiet strength found in living authentically—no matter where you are in the world.
The Man Behind the Music
While it’s tempting to assume the “Englishman” in the song is Sting himself, the track is actually inspired by the British author and eccentric icon, Quentin Crisp. Crisp, known for his flamboyant demeanor and wit, moved to New York City in the late 1970s after gaining fame for his memoir, The Naked Civil Servant. In America, he found a culture that—while not without its own prejudices—offered more space for his nonconformist lifestyle.
Sting, fascinated by Crisp’s courage to live openly as a gay man in conservative mid-century England, was moved to write a song that captured this bold self-expression. The lyrics are both a homage and a celebration of what it means to remain yourself in a world that often pressures conformity.
Lyricism that Transcends Borders
The opening lines—“I don’t drink coffee, I take tea, my dear / I like my toast done on one side”—are a light-hearted nod to British stereotypes, immediately setting a tone that’s as humorous as it is sincere. But beneath this whimsical surface lies a deeper message. Lines like “It takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile / Be yourself no matter what they say” ring as a rallying cry for self-acceptance and integrity.
These words have echoed through decades, often quoted in contexts far beyond music. In a world increasingly conscious of identity politics and cultural fluidity, Sting’s lyrics continue to feel remarkably relevant.
A Sound That Crosses Genres
Musically, “Englishman in New York” stands out with its blend of pop, jazz, and reggae influences. The track features the legendary jazz saxophonist Branford Marsalis, whose soaring solo adds emotional depth and musical richness. The song’s fusion of styles mirrors the theme of cultural blending—an English gentleman navigating the chaos and vibrancy of New York City.
It’s no surprise the song found commercial success and became one of Sting’s signature solo hits. Over the years, it has been covered and remixed by various artists, including a popular dance version by Dutch DJ Armin van Buuren, proving its versatility and cross-generational appeal.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
"Englishman in New York" has become more than a song—it's a cultural statement. It celebrates being an outsider with dignity, maintaining one’s identity while navigating foreign spaces. It reminds listeners that strength often lies not in resistance but in grace, resilience, and self-respect.
For those who feel out of place in their surroundings, Sting’s anthem is a comforting reminder: You’re not alone—and being different is something to be proud of.
By celebrating one man’s unapologetic selfhood, “Englishman in New York” has become a universal anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like a stranger in their own world. And in doing so, it proves that great music doesn’t just move you—it helps you move through life.