Apple Music Names Olivia Dean Artist of the Year for 2026

Apple Music has named Olivia Dean its Artist of the Year for 2026, recognizing the British singer-songwriter following the success of her album The Art of Loving. Dean is the first UK artist to receive the award.

Released in late 2025, The Art of Loving reached a wider audience this year as Dean's single "Man I Need" maintained a place on Apple Music's Daily Top 100. The song has appeared on the chart every day since August 29, 2025. Her year also included a Grammy for Best New Artist and four BRIT Awards, including Artist of the Year.

That growth has carried over to live performances. After opening for Sabrina Carpenter at Madison Square Garden in fall 2025, Dean returned to the New York venue less than a year later for her own four-night residency. A six-night sold-out run at London's O2 Arena followed, alongside a sold-out global tour.

The service's editors highlighted Dean's songwriting about love and friendship, with roots in 1960s soul and pop and influences including Sade, Prince, and Lauryn Hill. Responding to the award, Dean said, "To be recognized as an artist that's made an impact is really cool."

Dean will receive a physical Apple Music Award featuring a custom silicon wafer suspended between polished glass and a machined, anodized aluminum body.

Listeners can explore a special selection of Apple Music playlists celebrating the announcement and the music of the past year.

Dean follows 2025 Artist of the Year Tyler, The Creator as the latest recipient of the annual honor.