BBC Music Introducing has tapped EMI U.K. artist Olivia Dean as Artist of the Year following the arrival of her debut album, Messy.

The award recognizes Dean’s impact this year, which has been furthered by support from the BBC artist-development program.

Messy has reached #4 on the U.K.’s Official Albums Chart and been nominated for the Mercury Prize, and Dean has sold out her summer European tour. She recently played dates in the U.S. and Canada.

Referencing Dean's "unwavering dedication and passion," BBC Introducing editor Kelly Betts noted, "We've been supporting Olivia since 2018 and have witnessed the evolution of a true musical luminary. This award celebrates a phenomenal artist.”

Dean’s relationship with Introducing started when she uploaded her music to its online portal and receiving airplay and bookings from BBC Introducing London. Thereafter, BBC Radio 1 picked her 2019 song “Password Change” as its Introducing Track of the Week. Dean was the surprise guest this year on the BBC Introducing Stage at BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

Pictured from left: Jess Iszatt, presenter and producer of BBC Music Introducing, and Dean.