British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean has been named Apple Music’s Artist of the Year for 2026, becoming the first United Kingdom artiste to receive the recognition.
Apple Music announced the honour on Monday, November 9, describing Dean’s rise to stardom as the defining feel-good music story of the year.
According to a statement published on Apple’s Newsroom, the recognition followed the success of her second album, The Art of Loving, released in late 2025, which gained significant attention this year.
Her hit single, Man I Need, has appeared on Apple Music’s Daily Top 100 every day since it first entered the chart on August 29, 2025.
The 27-year-old singer also sold out her global tour, won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist and four BRIT Awards, including Artist of the Year.
Apple said Dean’s growing popularity was driven by her warm and vulnerable songs about love and friendship, which have resonated with audiences.
The company noted that its editors had highlighted how her music draws from the songwriting traditions of 1960s soul and pop, with influences from artistes such as Sade, Prince and Lauryn Hill.
Dean also performed at Madison Square Garden in New York City, opening for American singer Sabrina Carpenter in autumn 2025.
Less than a year later, she returned to the venue for a four-night residency before embarking on a six-night sold-out run 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’s ability to connect with listeners distinguished her from other artistes.
“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 receive a physical award featuring 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 celebrating the songs and voices that have shaped the past 12 months.