The honor caps a pivotal year for the British singer-songwriter, propelled by the enduring triumph of her late-2025 release, The Art of Loving. Her breakout tune “Man I Need” has held a steady position on Apple Music’s Daily Top 100 since it premiered in August 2025.
During the last year, Dean collected a Grammy for Best New Artist and earned four BRIT Awards, among them Artist of the Year. Her live energy blossomed from opening for Sabrina Carpenter at New York’s Madison Square Garden in autumn 2025 to returning almost a year later for a four-night solo residency, followed by a full-house six-night stint at London’s O2 Arena.
Apple Music editors highlighted Dean’s warm, intimate songwriting, drawing on 1960s soul and pop influence, the sensual vibe of Sade, Prince’s daring musicianship, and Lauryn Hill’s unvarnished lyricism. Her exploration of connection and purposeful love was deeply shaped by bell hooks’ 1999 work All About Love: New Visions.
“I adore making music,” Olivia Dean commented. “It’s the most wonderful pursuit in the world. Being named Apple’s Artist of the Year feels incredible. To be recognized as an artist who has made a real impact is genuinely thrilling.”
Rachel Newman, Apple Music’s co-head, noted: “What makes Olivia unique is that she speaks from the heart, every single time. Her songs invite you to ring a friend, dance in your kitchen, and tell someone you love them.”
As part of the accolade, Dean receives Apple Music’s tangible award—a crafted silicon wafer suspended between smooth glass and a frame of anodised aluminum.
