British soul-pop singer Olivia Dean has been named as the runner-up in BBC Radio 1’s prestigious Sound Of 2024 list. The 24-year-old Brit School graduate’s debut album “Messy” was nominated for the 2023 Mercury Prize. The album’s theme was about letting go of expectations, uncertainty, and youthful heartbreak. Her breakout radio hit, Dive, captures the nervous excitement of plunging into a new relationship. Female empowerment and independence have been well-worn themes in pop, but Dean’s messages are more complex and human.
Born and raised in Highams Park, northeast London, Dean’s aspiration for music was evident from an early age. She sold out a European tour, gained two million Spotify followers, and became a Chanel ambassador even before releasing an album. Her throwback pop-soul sound and pillowy, jazz-toned vocals are compelling. Her guiding principle is, “If you don’t love it, don’t do it.” As an aspiring musician, that approach paid off.
Dean’s interest in music grew during her childhood, listening to her mother playing Jill Scott, Angie Stone, and Lauryn Hill. Her dad introduced her to Carole King and Al Green, but musical talent was not a family trait. Her drive led to winning a place at the Brit School, where she enrolled in the theater course to learn musical theater
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