In a world lacking love, how do we master the art of loving? Olivia Dean seems to have cracked the code. With her latest album, “The Art of Loving,” Dean explores love in all of its varying forms.
Take “Baby Steps,” for example. The heartbreak hit acts as a post-mortem for a long-term relationship, figuring out the next steps to take once all is said and done. “Now there’s no one to text when the plane lands, or to call when it’s taking off” she sings, mourning the quiet absence of once-intimate rituals. In the depths of her despair, however, Dean uses this moment to rise like a phoenix from the ashes, finding strength in her relationship with herself – and creating the best line of the album: “It’s not the end, it’s the making of.”
“So Easy (To Fall In Love)” is, in a way, a self-love anthem; the singer is praising herself for how easy she makes it for a potential partner to “fall in love” with her. “I’m the perfect mix of Saturday night and the rest of your life, anyone with a heart would agree,” she sings with smooth, R&B confidence. It’s a reminder that even in the wake of heartbreak, or when love just won’t stick, there’s power in knowing your worth — and sometimes, that’s the love story that matters most.
What makes “The Art of Loving” so remarkable is that it doesn’t pretend love is easy; it simply insists that it’s worth it. Dean doesn’t just sing about love, she interrogates it, embraces it, loses it, and dares to try again. If that’s what Dean’s preaching, then I believe she’s not only mastered “The Art of Loving” – she’s giving us all a masterclass in how to follow suit.
Nicole Speros holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications & Media Studies and is currently diving deeper into the industry at Berklee College of Music, where she’s studying Music Business. A passionate storyteller with an eye for what’s next, Nicole brings a sharp, curious voice to her work as a music journalist. She covers emerging artists, shifting trends, and the ever-evolving intersection of music and media—with a focus on authenticity, accessibility, and the songs that connect us all.
She’s an active member of GRAMMY U/The Recording Academy and Women in Music, always looking for ways to support and amplify voices in the industry. When she’s not in class or writing, you’ll probably find her stage-side at a local Boston show or hopping on a plane for her next adventure.