Olivia Dean brings the curtain down on Radio 1’s Big Weekend with ‘magic’ set
Olivia Dean Concludes BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend with a Spellbinding Show
Olivia Dean brings the curtain down – As the sun dipped below the horizon on Sunday, BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend came to a dazzling close with a performance that left fans in awe. Olivia Dean, the UK’s rising pop sensation, delivered a set that encapsulated her charm, talent, and the energy of the event. Her final appearance at the main stage was described by the artist herself as “magic,” a sentiment that echoed through the crowd as she captivated thousands with her soulful interpretations of tracks like *Dive*, *The Hardest Part*, and *So Easy (To Fall In Love)*.
The atmosphere was electric, thanks to a blend of elements that made the performance unforgettable. From the dreamy floral stage setup to the backdrop of her live band, every detail was crafted to enhance the experience. Dean’s choice of attire—elegant, shimmering dresses that seemed to glow under the lights—added to the spectacle, creating a visual feast that complemented her musical artistry. Her words of wisdom, shared with the audience, further underscored the emotional depth of her act, reinforcing her status as an artist who connects deeply with her fans.
Dean’s journey to the headlining stage has been nothing short of remarkable. She reflected on her rapid ascent, recalling her debut at the Big Weekend Introducing Stage in 2023. “I cannot believe I am headlining this festival,” she said, expressing her disbelief at the progress she has made since that time. “To think of everything that has happened since then is just crazy.” Her past year has been a whirlwind of success, marked by major award wins and chart-topping hits that have resonated with listeners worldwide.
A Year of Recognition and Chart Dominance
Dean’s achievements have extended beyond the music scene, earning her a place among the most celebrated artists of the year. She secured four awards at the Brits, including Best British Artist and Best Album for her sophomore record, *The Art of Loving*. Her accolades also reached international platforms, with the Grammy Award for Best New Artist and three Mobo Awards further solidifying her impact. These honors have not only validated her talent but also helped her build a fanbase that spans generations and continents.
Her music, a mix of pop, jazz, alternative, R&B, and folk, has captured the hearts of listeners with its emotional resonance and infectious energy. Whether through her tender ballads or upbeat anthems, Dean has proven herself as a versatile performer capable of addressing a wide range of themes and moods. The crowd’s enthusiastic response to her set was a testament to her ability to unite people through her artistry.
As the final notes of her performance faded, the sky erupted with pink fireworks and confetti, mirroring the joy and celebration that filled the air. “This has just been magic,” Dean told the audience, her voice carrying the same warmth that had defined her set. The roaring applause that followed confirmed the shared sentiment, leaving no doubt about the magic of the moment.
CMAT: A Defining Moment on the Main Stage
The weekend’s final day also saw Irish singer CMAT take center stage, showcasing her talent with a performance that was both powerful and expressive. Fresh off her recent win for Best Album at the Ivor Novello Awards for *Euro-Country*, CMAT brought a unique energy to the event. Her stage presence was as dynamic as her music, with high-energy movements that included two-stepping, line dancing, and dramatic collapses to the floor, ensuring every moment was packed with action.
CMAT’s set was a highlight of the day, featuring a mix of her most iconic tracks, such as *Stay For Something*, *When A Good Man Cries*, and *I Don’t Really Care For You*. She also took the opportunity to address the critics who had commented on her physical appearance after her performance in 2024. “It’s crazy because I’m actually very sexy,” she declared, before removing her shirt to reveal a light blue, semi-see-through ruffled two-piece. The audience’s response was immediate and enthusiastic, with cheers and applause confirming the power of her confidence and stagecraft.
Her performance of *Take A Sexy Picture Of Me* was a striking moment, highlighting the tension between beauty standards and self-expression. The song resonated deeply with the crowd, who were reminded of the broader cultural conversations surrounding women’s image in the music industry. CMAT’s ability to blend personal commentary with stellar music made her set a standout moment in the festival’s finale.
Other Standouts of the Weekend
Throughout the three-day event, the festival delivered a diverse lineup that kept attendees entertained. On the New Music stage, Brighton-based singer-songwriter Maisie Peters took the opportunity to debut her work at Big Weekend. Just days after releasing her stripped-back third album, *Florescence*, she played a mix of new tracks and older favorites, including *Questions* and *My Regards*. Her performance was a blend of intimacy and ambition, reflecting the evolution of her artistry.
The jazz band Ezra Collective, known for their ability to create an unforgettable festival vibe, also delivered a high-energy set that left fans energized. Their percussive style and fusion of genres—jazz, funk, reggae, and carnival—ensured that every note resonated with the crowd. Festivalgoers were seen spilling out of the tent to catch a glimpse of their performance, which was a masterclass in rhythm and collaboration.
Earlier in the day, Irish singer Dermot Kennedy brought a heartfelt energy to the main stage, performing a set filled with crowd-pleasers that showcased his versatility. US singer Kehlani followed with a performance that was as intense as it was passionate, ensuring the weekend’s musical highlights continued to impress. Even ex-One Direction star Niall Horan made an unexpected appearance, joining Stargazing singer Myles Smith for a collaborative set of *Drive Safe*, which had fans buzzing with excitement.
Girl group Flo, who had previously declared “R&B is back” after winning a Mobo Award earlier this year, proved their point with a performance that was both polished and raw. Their set on the New Music stage was a celebration of the genre’s resurgence, while Jorja Smith delivered a “party set” that kept the momentum going. Holly Humberstone, in contrast, offered a more gothic and atmospheric experience, proving that the festival’s musical diversity was unmatched.
The event also featured a memorable headline set from Swedish pop star Zara Larsson, who brought a global flair to the stage. Her performance was a blend of pop and nostalgia, drawing on her extensive career to create a moment that resonated with both longtime fans and newcomers. Veteran DJ Fatboy Slim, meanwhile, provided a nostalgic journey through the decades, taking the audience on a trip down memory lane with his signature beats and timeless sound.
Big Weekend proved to be more than just a celebration of music—it was a showcase of the UK’s vibrant talent and its ability to draw global attention. From the dazzling performances of Olivia Dean and CMAT to the eclectic styles of other artists, the event was a testament to the power of music to unite and inspire. As the final day came to an end, the atmosphere remained electric, leaving attendees with memories that would last long after the confetti had settled.