With their latest single “The Richest Man in the World”, Nick Cody and The Heartache continue to blur genre boundaries while delivering razor-sharp lyricism and timely social commentary. Released through Green Eyed Records, the track serves as the first of several protest-inspired singles set to appear on their upcoming EP We Are the Many. True to form, this release sees Cody once again weaving together memorable melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, and carefully layered instrumentation that makes his music stand out in the current indie and folk landscape.
At its core, “The Richest Man in the World” is more than just a song — it’s a critique, a statement, and a conversation starter. The track questions wealth, privilege, and the systems that enable inequality, offering listeners a reflective yet accessible protest anthem. Cody’s ability to write lyrics that are both clever and piercing ensures the message cuts through clearly, while the strong melodic structure makes it linger long after the track ends.
One of the standout features of this single is the contribution of Liz Hanks, a celebrated musician who has worked with household names such as The Pet Shop Boys, Liam Gallagher, and Pulp. Her involvement elevates the track, bringing depth and richness to the arrangement while highlighting Cody’s ethos of “creativity through collaboration.”
The production is polished yet organic, allowing the lyrical message to shine while still rewarding close listeners with its layered instrumentation. It’s a balance that reflects Cody’s long-standing dedication to quality songwriting and thoughtful arrangement.
Nick Cody, based in Leeds, has built a reputation for writing songs that straddle genres while carrying a strong backbone of social and political awareness. Over the years, he has earned praise from respected artists, including Jon Gomm and Chris Catalyst from The Sisters of Mercy. He also founded Green Eyed Records, a label designed to support collaborative artistry, which has already hosted names like Jon Gomm and Martin Simpson.
Cody’s music often challenges listeners to think deeper about the world around them without losing its melodic appeal. His sharp wit, lyrical intelligence, and willingness to tackle big issues set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
Even Jim Glennie, founder member of James, has praised Cody’s work as:
“Wonderfully innovative and explorative. It is packed full of strong melodies and ideas. Exciting and unpredictable.”
In a time where the gap between the wealthy and the struggling has become impossible to ignore, “The Richest Man in the World” feels both urgent and necessary. It’s not just another protest song — it’s a reminder of how art can reflect the pressing issues of society while still engaging listeners with strong hooks and inventive sounds.
As the first single from the upcoming EP We Are the Many, this track sets the tone for what’s to come: a collection of songs that question, challenge, and inspire. With its blend of intelligent lyricism, innovative composition, and collaborative spirit, “The Richest Man in the World” is proof that Nick Cody and The Heartache are unafraid to push boundaries while staying rooted in authenticity.
Nick Cody and The Heartache have once again delivered a song that is musically compelling and lyrically vital. “The Richest Man in the World” is a striking introduction to their forthcoming protest project, showcasing Cody’s ability to transform social critique into a melodic experience that connects across genres.
For those who crave music with substance — songs that not only sound good but also mean something — this release is an essential listen. It confirms what many already know: Nick Cody isn’t just a songwriter, he’s a commentator, collaborator, and one of the most interesting voices in the UK indie scene today.
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