Following the success of her debut album Messy, Olivia Dean today returns with her brand-new single ‘Time’, released via EMI Records (click here for streaming links). This track demonstrates a significant evolution in her sound, merging rock elements with her trademark neo-soul style. Dean premiered the song during her triple-sold-out shows at London’s Hammersmith Apollo, where she wowed audiences with her new musical direction.
‘Time’ opens with a captivating acoustic guitar and drum melody, setting the stage for a bold departure from Dean’s previous work. Produced by Zac Nahome and co-written with Max Wolfgang, Bastian Langebaek, and Matt Hales, the song reflects the influence of British icons like David Bowie and The Beatles, while also nodding to the legendary rock sound of Tina Turner.
READ MORE: ★★★★☆ Messy review | A triumphant genre-spanning debut from Olivia Dean
Speaking about the new single, Dean shared, “Time was born out of the frustrating feeling of not having enough of it. It’s about wanting to be ambitious, experience the world, and do everything while still feeling connected to the ones you love. It’s a real balancing act, especially as a woman. So, the song moves between these two worlds, dreamy and serene, then wild and chaotic, as life often is! It’s pretty much a completely live, one-take of me and my band just playing in a room together as we have been on tour. It feels so different from what I’ve made before, sonically of course, but also in its energy. I’m really excited about that.”
Recorded in a single take, ‘Time’ showcases Dean’s sultry vocals and evocative lyrics against a backdrop of high-energy instrumentation. The track’s fresh rock sound, featuring heavy electric guitar, is a notable shift from her earlier mellow hits like ‘Ok Love You Bye’ from her Love Songs 2021 EP.
2024 has been a whirlwind year for Olivia Dean, with three BRIT Award nominations, a cover feature in POP Magazine, an appearance in British Vogue, and a debut performance at Coachella. Her European and UK tour included three sold-out dates at London’s Hammersmith Apollo, with 35,000 people on the waitlist. Dean is also set to perform at Radio 1’s Big Weekend, Glastonbury, Japan’s Summer Sonic, and will headline the Love Supreme Festival.
With over 3.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Olivia Dean’s new single ‘Time’ promises to captivate both her loyal fans and new listeners alike. Her willingness to explore new musical territory cements her status as one of the UK’s most exciting contemporary artists.
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