music
February 28, 2026
Hard work, romance and bell hooks: how Olivia Dean became British pop’s newest megastar
After a Grammy and a global breakthrough, the 26-year-old singer could sweep the board at next week’s Brits. Her closest collaborators explain her massive appeal
TL;DR
- Olivia Dean is a major breakout artist with her album "The Art of Loving" and single "Man I Need."
- Her music combines bossa nova, throwback R&B, and indie-pop, focusing on love and relationships.
- Dean's album debuted at No 1 in the UK and No 8 on the US Billboard chart.
- She won the Grammy for Best New Artist and gave an acceptance speech celebrating immigration.
- Dean studied at the Brit school and was influenced by authors like bell hooks.
- Her collaborators highlight her intentionality, confidence, and authentic connection with her audience.
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