The 27-year-old artiste secured the title following a remarkable year marked by the commercial success of her music, major award wins, sold-out international tours and growing global influence.
Apple Music announced the recognition on Monday, November 9, describing Dean’s emergence as the defining feel-good music story of the year.
According to a statement published on Apple’s Newsroom, her selection was largely driven by the success of her second album, The Art of Loving, released in late 2025. The project gained considerable attention throughout 2026, further establishing her reputation as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary music.
Her single, Man I Need, has also enjoyed sustained success, appearing on Apple Music’s Daily Top 100 every day since it first entered the chart on August 29, 2025.
Beyond her streaming achievements, Dean recorded significant milestones on the international music scene. She won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist and secured four BRIT Awards, including the prestigious Artist of the Year category. She also sold out her global tour, reflecting the growing demand for her music across different markets.
Apple Music attributed her rising popularity to her ability to deliver warm, emotionally honest songs centred on love, friendship and human relationships, themes that have struck a chord with listeners.
The company’s editors also highlighted the musical influences behind her sound, noting that her songwriting draws from the traditions of 1960s soul and pop, while reflecting the artistic influences of established performers such as Sade, Prince and Lauryn Hill.
Dean’s growing international profile has been equally evident in her live performances. In autumn 2025, she performed at New York’s Madison Square Garden as the opening act for American singer Sabrina Carpenter.
Less than a year later, she returned to the iconic venue for a four-night residency before heading to London, where she completed a six-night sold-out run at The O2 Arena.
Reacting to the recognition, Dean expressed gratitude for the honour, describing music-making as her greatest passion and acknowledging the significance of being recognised for her artistic contributions.
“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,” she said.
Apple Music co-head, Rachel Newman, also praised Dean’s songwriting and her ability to establish a genuine emotional connection with audiences.
“What sets Olivia apart is that she speaks from the heart, every time,” Newman said.
She added that Dean’s music goes beyond entertainment by encouraging listeners to celebrate relationships, express affection and find joy in everyday experiences.
“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,” Newman said.
As part of the honour, Dean will receive a specially designed physical award featuring Apple’s custom silicon wafer, suspended between a polished sheet of glass and a machined, anodised aluminium body.
Apple Music also announced a special collection of playlists celebrating the songs, artistes and voices that have shaped the past 12 months, further highlighting the musical achievements and cultural moments of the year.