British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean has been named Apple Music’s Artist of the Year for 2026, capping a breakthrough year that has seen her music reach audiences around the world. The recognition also makes her the first UK artist to receive the annual honor.

Announced on November 9, the award celebrates Dean’s growing influence following the success of her second studio album, The Art of Loving, released in late 2025. The album became one of the defining releases of 2026, helping turn the London-born singer into one of the year’s most prominent musical acts.

One of the biggest drivers of that success has been “Man I Need.” The track has appeared on Apple Music’s Daily Top 100 every day since it first entered the chart on August 29, 2025, demonstrating its remarkable staying power well beyond its initial release.

Dean’s success has extended well beyond streaming. She won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist and collected four BRIT Awards, including Artist of the Year. Her live performances have also reached new heights, with a sold-out global tour and major headline shows on both sides of the Atlantic.

Her rise has been particularly striking in New York and London. After opening for Sabrina Carpenter at Madison Square Garden in fall 2025, Dean returned to the venue less than a year later for a four-night headlining residency. She subsequently completed a six-night sold-out run at London’s O2 Arena.

Why Olivia Dean stood out in 2026

Beyond commercial success, Apple Music points to Dean’s songwriting and the emotional connection she has established with listeners as major reasons behind the recognition.

Her music draws on the traditions of 1960s soul and pop, with influences ranging from Sade and Prince to Lauryn Hill. Rather than simply revisiting those musical styles, Dean brings them into songs centered on love, friendship, vulnerability, and human connection.

Her approach to love is also influenced by bell hooks’ 1999 book All About Love: New Visions. The book’s perspective on love as something that requires conscious effort has informed the themes running through her music and the messages she shares with fans.

“I love making music,” Dean said in Apple’s announcement. “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.“

Rachel Newman, Apple Music’s co-head, also highlighted the personal connection behind Dean’s music.

“What sets Olivia apart is that she speaks from the heart, every time,” Newman said. She added that Dean’s songs encourage listeners to connect with friends, celebrate everyday moments, and express their affection for the people around them.

Apple’s Artist of the Year award comes with a custom-designed trophy

Alongside the recognition, Dean will receive a physical Apple Music Award designed to represent the creativity and technical craftsmanship behind recorded music.

The trophy features one of Apple’s custom silicon wafers suspended between a polished sheet of glass, supported by a machined and anodized aluminum body. Apple says the silicon wafer represents the technology powering the devices that bring its catalog of more than 100 million songs to listeners worldwide.

Apple Music is also marking the announcement with a special collection of playlists highlighting the songs and artists that have shaped the past 12 months. The collection is available through the streaming service.

Dean’s recognition marks another milestone in a year that has transformed her from an increasingly popular British singer-songwriter into an international star. With The Art of Loving continuing to connect with listeners and “Man I Need” maintaining its remarkable chart presence, her selection reflects a breakthrough that has extended well beyond a single hit or album.