Pop phenomenon Olivia Dean has paid tribute to Australia for inspiring her to make a monumental album that took the world by storm.
“It feels full circle to be back in Australia,” the British singer-songwriter said at her sold-out show at Rod Laver Arena on Monday night.
Dean reflected on her shows at Laneway Festival, and Melbourne’s Forum Theatre in early 2025.
“That was poignant time in my life,” Dean said.
“I’d written just a fraction of the album, The Art of Loving. I knew when I got home, I’d have to finish it. But playing here really spurred me on. When I left Australia, I knew what I needed to do.”
The Art of Loving, released late last year, was a global smash, and includes the hits Man I Need, Nice To Each Other, and So Easy (To Fall In Love).
It sent Dean into the pop stratosphere and, so far, has amassed 9bn streams — 1.4bn for Man I Need, So Easy (1bn), Nice To Each Other (600m), and Rein Me In, a duet with Sam Fender (500m).
“Being back here now, and having finished the album, and everything that’s happened since then … it feels so surreal,” Dean said.
“I’m grateful and reflective on all of it.”
Dean’s latest tour kicked off its Australia run at Melbourne Park on Monday night, and sparkled with gratitude, reflection — and celebration.
“Is this anybody’s first time, seeing us play tonight?” she asked a buzzing room.
“OK, this is kind of like a first date. I hope it goes well.”
This magical date went incredibly well.
Dean spotlighted 12 songs from The Art of Loving, and kicked off the show with the warm, breezy caress of Nice To Each Other, then, two songs later, her jazz pop marvel, So Easy.
“Oh my god, Melbourne — hello!” Dean said.
“It took us a long time to get here, but we made it. There is only one rule this evening — enjoy yourself. This is a space for you, and for me. You can sing, you can dance, you can cry. It’s a Monday night, but in our minds, it can be any night we want.”
At times, Dean and her cracking 9-piece band brought Saturday night energy to the room, particularly on Ladies Room, Carmen, Baby Steps and the slinky Dive.
The horn section was phenomenal.
Dean played an acoustic set, and also performed three songs on a b-stage in the middle of the arena.
Man I Need, a No.1 single in Australia for 21 weeks, closed the show.
Between the hits, Dean sprinkled the concert with musings on life, the illusion of perfection, her family ancestry, and the wonders of love.
It was personable, soulful, and relatable. But even down-to-earth Dean knows her limits.
“I’m not gonna do a shoey, come on!” she said, replying to a dare from the crowd. “In this dress? Please!”
Olivia Dean plays a second and final show at Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday night.