Olivia Dean named Apple Music’s Artist of the Year for 2026

Olivia Dean has been named Apple Music’s Artist of the Year for 2026.

On Instagram, the singer expressed her gratitude for the recognition and thanked everyone who supported her music throughout the year.

“@applemusic wow thank you for making me your artist of the year. This has been the wildest year of my life! The year of loving and so much learning. Thank you for listening love u all 🌹🌹🌹 🌹,” she wrote.

Fans were quick to celebrate Olivia’s latest achievement, flooding her post with congratulatory messages and words of appreciation for her music.

“There’s something so beautiful about the way you make people feel through your music. Your songs touch the heart in a way that is hard to explain. Never stop being exactly who you are. The world needs more artists like you,” one fan wrote.

“My artist of the year too! ♥️” one fan commented.

According to a press release from Apple Music, the recognition celebrates Olivia’s “undeniable leap to stardom in what’s been the defining feel-good music story of 2026.”

The singer also made history as the first British artist to receive the prestigious recognition.

“What sets Olivia apart is that she speaks from the heart, every time,” Apple Music’s co-head Rachel Newman remarked.

“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,” she added.

As Apple Music’s Artist of the Year, Olivia will be presented with a specially crafted award recognizing her musical achievements and artistry.

The award features a custom silicon wafer positioned between a polished glass panel and an aluminum body. The wafer represents the technology that powers Apple devices, which provide listeners with access to more than 100 million songs, symbolizing the connection between technology and music.