Olivia Dean is ending 2026 on a high note. The British singer has officially been named Apply Music’s Artist of the Year for 2026, becoming the first UK artist to receive the honour.
The announcement celebrates Olivia’s incredible rise in the music industry, following a successful year filled with chart-topping songs, major awards and sold-out concerts.
A Breakthrough Year For Olivia Dean
Olivia’s second studio album, The Art of Loving, released in late 2025, became one of her biggest career milestones in 2026.
Her hit single ‘Man I Need’ has remained on Apple Music’s Daily Top 100 chart every day since its debut on 29th August 2025, showing just how much listeners have connected with her music.
The singer also enjoyed an impressive awards season, winning Best New Artist at the GRAMMY Awards and taking home four BRIT Awards, including Artist of the Year.
Her live performances have been equally successful. After opening for Sabrina Carpenter at New York’s Madison Square Garden in 2025, Olivia returned less than a year later for her own four-night residency.
She also performed six sold-out shows at London’s O2 Arena, marking another major achievement in her growing career.
Olivia Dean Celebrates Her Latest Achievement
Known for her soulful voice and heartfelt songs about love, friendship and relationships, Olivia has built a strong connection with listeners worldwide.
Her music draws inspiration from artists such as Sade, Prince and Lauryn Hill, while her views on love are influenced by bell hooks’ book All About Love: New Visions.
Speaking about the recognition, Olivia shared, “I love making music. It’s the best thing in the world.” She added that being recognised for making an impact through her music felt especially meaningful. As Apple Music’s Artist of the Year, Olivia will receive a specially designed award featuring Apple’s custom silicon wafer, glass and aluminum.
Fans can also celebrate her achievement through a special playlist on Apple Music. With a successful album, major awards and sold-out shows, 2026 has certainly been a memorable year for Olivia Dean.
Source: Apple Newsroom
