Olivia Lauryn Dean, born on 14 March 1999 in London’s Borough of Haringey, has quickly become one of the UK’s most captivating new voices. Growing up in Highams Park, North London, she was raised in a mixed-cultural household by an English father and a Jamaican-Guyanese mother. Her grandmother was part of the Windrush generation, and her parents’ deep love for Lauryn Hill inspired Olivia’s middle name, “Lauryn.”
Music surrounded her from an early age. With her father spinning records by Al Green and Carole King, and her mother encouraging her confidence, Olivia found herself drawn to performing. By her teens, she was already competing in school talent shows, joining gospel choirs, and studying musical theatre. At just 15, she was accepted into the prestigious BRIT School, where she switched from theatre to songwriting—committing to a three-hour daily commute to chase her dream.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Dean began writing songs at 16, teaching herself piano and guitar. Her debut single “Reason to Stay” (2018) marked her official entry into the music world. Soon after, she gained invaluable experience touring as a backing vocalist for Rudimental, even performing for 16,000 people at the Sziget Festival.
Her first EP, OK Love You Bye (2019), earned her industry buzz and a deal with EMI Records. Follow-ups like What Am I Gonna Do On Sundays? (2020) further showcased her ability to mix soulful tones with vulnerable storytelling.
The release of her debut studio album Messy (2023) solidified her place as one of neo-soul’s brightest rising stars, earning praise for its blend of heartfelt ballads and modern production. By 2024, she was performing on major stages, including a standout set at Glastonbury, and was celebrated as BBC Music Introducing Artist of the Year (2023).
Olivia Dean in 2025: What’s Next?
As of 2025, Olivia Dean’s net worth is estimated at $1–2 million, reflecting revenue from streaming, tours, and brand endorsements, including collaborations with Chanel. She continues to inspire with her unique blend of soul, pop, and jazz influences.
Her highly anticipated second studio album, The Art of Loving, is set for release in September 2025, promising another wave of empowering anthems and soulful ballads. With inspirations like Amy Winehouse, Adele, and Lauryn Hill, Dean’s music captures both timeless vulnerability and modern resilience.
Personal Style and Presence
Standing at 5’6″ (168 cm) with deep brown eyes and natural brown hair, Dean embodies an elegance that mirrors her artistry. Fans admire not only her voice but also her ability to connect authentically through her lyrics, live performances, and social media presence.
From her London upbringing to becoming one of the UK’s most promising neo-soul voices, Olivia Dean has carved a space uniquely her own. With The Art of Loving on the horizon, she stands poised to expand her influence beyond Britain and into the global music stage.