Olivia Dean crowned UK queen of pop at Brit Awards in Manchester

Manchester hosted the Brit Awards for the first time outside London in its nearly 50 year history as Olivia Dean swept four categories, including Best British Artist and Best Album for The Art of Loving. The 26 year old Londoner also won Song of the Year for Rein Me In, a collaboration with Sam Fender. In a tearful moment, she said the album is about love and caring for one another in a world that can feel loveless while accepting the award on stage.

Dean delivered a poised live performance of Man I Need, while celebrating the night led by other winners Lola Young in the breakthrough act category, Dave for Best Rap Act and Sam Fender for Best Rock Act. The show featured a starry lineup with Harry Styles, Best Group winners Wolf Alice, pop star Raye and Alex Warren, who was joined on piano by James Blunt. Robbie Williams closed the night with a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne alongside some of the late star's former bandmates.

Rosalía made history by becoming the first Brit winner for music sung in a foreign language, a moment many described as a celebration of different music and voices. The Brit Awards 2026 also highlighted a shift in venue history and a broader scope of performances, underscoring the ceremonys evolving culture of crossover hits.

As the night wrapped, fans and critics noted the fresh energy and the way the show honored both established stars and rising talents, with Olivia Deans win tally signaling a defining year for pop music in Britain. The Brit Awards 2026 left Manchester buzzing, signaling a vibrant future for the global music scene.

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