Olivia Dean is Apple Music’s Artist of the Year for 2026

British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean has been named Apple Music’s Artist of the Year for 2026. She is the first artist from the United Kingdom to receive this honour.

Apple Music made the announcement on Monday, November 9. They described Dean’s rise to fame as the feel-good music story of the year.

A statement from Apple’s Newsroom said this recognition came after the success of her second album, The Art of Loving. This album was released in late 2025 and gained a lot of attention this year.

Her hit single, Man I Need, has been on Apple Music’s Daily Top 100 chart every day since it first appeared on August 29, 2025.

Dean, who is 27 years old, sold out her global tour. She also won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist and four BRIT Awards, including Artist of the Year.

Apple noted that Dean’s growing popularity comes from her warm and honest songs about love and friendship. Her music has connected well with fans.

The company pointed out that its editors said her music is influenced by the songwriting style of 1960s soul and pop. They mentioned artists like Sade, Prince, and Lauryn Hill as inspirations.

Dean also performed at Madison Square Garden in New York City. She opened for American singer Sabrina Carpenter in autumn 2025.

Less than a year later, she returned to the same venue for a four-night show. After that, she had a six-night sold-out concert at The O2 Arena in London.

Reacting to the recognition, Dean said, “I love making music. It’s the best thing in the world. I think being Apple’s Artist of the Year feels really amazing. To be recognized as an artist that’s made an impact is really cool.”

Apple Music co-head Rachel Newman said Dean stands out because she connects with her listeners.

“What sets Olivia apart is that she speaks from the heart, every time,” Newman said.

“Her songs make you want to call a friend, dance in your kitchen, and tell someone you love them. She is open and genuine in everything she shares, and that connection is what turned a great year into a defining one.”

As part of the recognition, Dean will get a physical award. This award features Apple’s custom silicon wafer suspended between a polished sheet of glass and a machined, anodised aluminium body.

Apple also announced a special selection of playlists to celebrate the songs and voices that shaped the past 12 months.