Olivia Dean Crowned Best New Artist at the 2026 Grammys

British singer Olivia Dean has officially become one of pop’s most exciting new stars after winning the Grammy Award for Best New Artist at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. The 26-year-old triumphed over strong competition, including fellow Brit Lola Young and R&B artist Leon Thoma, making her the first British act to win the category since Dua Lipa in 2019.

A Soulful Sound That Resonates Globally

Dean’s victory was fueled by her second album, The Art of Loving, which delivered soulful, romantic pop tracks like Man I Need and So Easy (To Fall In Love). Both songs became international hits, cementing her reputation as a rising star with a unique blend of jazz-toned pop and heartfelt storytelling. Her performance of Man I Need at the Grammys showcased the buoyant energy that has made her music resonate across continents.

A Journey of Persistence and Growth

Dean’s success is the culmination of years of steady progress. She first gained attention with her 2019 EP OK Love You Bye and later released her debut album Messy, which earned a Mercury Prize nomination. But it was The Art of Loving that propelled her to the top of the UK charts, producing three Top 10 singles and earning critical acclaim for its intimate, conversational style.

Standing Up for Fans and Herself

Beyond her music, Dean has made headlines for her advocacy. Last year, she demanded refunds for fans who paid inflated resale ticket prices for her US tour, prompting Ticketmaster to introduce a price cap. Her willingness to challenge industry practices earned her widespread respect, including praise from Sir Elton John.

A Voice of Representation

Accepting her Grammy, Dean highlighted her heritage and the importance of community. “I’m up here as a granddaughter of an immigrant,” she said. “I’m a product of bravery and I think those people ought to be celebrated. We’re nothing without each other.” Her words underscored her role as not just a performer, but a voice for inclusivity and resilience.

Looking Ahead

Dean’s Grammy win adds to her growing list of accolades, including five Brit Award nominations this year. With her genre-defying sound and fearless approach to both music and industry challenges, Olivia Dean has firmly established herself as one of the most exciting artists to watch in 2026.