"I'm the Man" is the second album by English musician Joe Jackson, released in October 1979. Following his breakthrough debut, Look Sharp!, this album continued in a similar style. The singles from the album included "I'm the Man" and "It's Different for Girls," with the latter becoming Jackson's biggest UK hit, peaking at number five on the UK Singles Chart.
In 2001, I'm the Man was re-released with a bonus track, a live version of "Come On," which was originally the B-side to the "I'm the Man" single.
On the album cover, Jackson adopts the persona of a spiv, a type of petty criminal in the UK known for his flashy attire and dubious sales tactics. Jackson described this character as someone who wears a polka-dot tie and a pencil-thin mustache, attempting to sell items at a bargain. He explained that he wanted to preemptively label his work, calling it "spiv rock." However, he later noted that this image was intended to be humorous and not a serious musical movement.
The album was recorded quickly to capitalize on the success of Look Sharp!. Jackson viewed it as a more mature continuation of his debut, expressing confidence in the band's growth. He described it as "Part Two of Look Sharp!" and stated that it was a slightly more developed record.
I'm the Man was also released as a unique 7" album featuring five singles in a package titled "The 7" Album," which included a poster.
Singles from the album included "I'm the Man," which Jackson had hoped would be a leading single but failed to chart in both the US and UK, though it reached number 23 in Canada. The label then opted to release "It's Different for Girls," which quickly entered the UK Top Ten. Jackson was surprised by its success, stating, "I was amazed when that one was a hit." The third single, "Kinda Kute," reached number 91 in Canada.
