It is no surprise that the Recording Academy views Olivia Dean as a perfect contender for Best New Artist, as she is not to be messed with. Other nominees should watch out because she will not go down without a fight. 

Dean’s sophomore album, “The Art of Loving,” features 12 tracks, each uniquely tackling specific types of love, ranging from romantic to even platonic relationships. Yet “Baby Steps” stands out, offering an intimate reflection on the art of spending time alone and cherishing it. Dean’s lyrics encourage listeners not to feel ashamed of being alone or their singleness, but to embrace it as a perfect opportunity for self-discovery and self-love.

The British singer opens the song with a low note on the piano, soon accompanied by gentle humming, as the production builds in subtle layers that reflect how Dean is still processing her emotions. As she sings, “Now there’s no one to text when the plane lands / Or to call when it’s taking off,” Dean paints a vivid picture of a scene that we are all familiar with. Even if no one is there at the airport, that shouldn’t prevent you from buying the ticket and missing the experience. 

Among social media trends that aim to “normalize” not caring what others think, such as traveling or attending concerts alone, or even something as simple as going to the movies or grabbing dinner alone. Dean’s music comes at a perfect time. This 26-year-old knows her self-worth. Value doesn’t come from a love of another; it comes from within: “I’ll be my own pair of safe hands.” Fans and listeners are welcome to understand the underlying message that we don’t need anyone to make us feel safe, valued, or even loved. Additionally, no one should miss out on experiences just because of the fear of doing them alone; There’s no reason to let life pass by while being held back by fears. We are all strong enough to buy ourselves flowers.  

Yes, that feeling may be hard to grasp at first, which is why Dean eases into a chorus, “I’m taking ba-ba-ba-baby steps.” The production takes on an echoey effect, almost as if Dean is convincing herself that spending time alone is what she needs, treating it as a remedy. Even though it can be tricky, at least Dean is making an effort to take the first step.

The second verse highlights the beauty of self-care, “There’ll be roses on the shelf / ’Cause this house gon’ love itself.” Dean’s lyrics beautifully illustrate how love doesn’t always come from others; instead, even the smallest gestures, such as bringing yourself flowers or taking the time to dance carelessly, can turn everyday moments into something meaningful. Gentle acts can evolve into something bigger, becoming a symbol of strength and confidence that unlocks new kinds of love.  

Her soulful voice takes over the bridge, “If I fall forwards (Mm) / At least I have that (Mm).” The journey to regaining her self-confidence may be long, but it will be worth it. Dean knows that she will emerge stronger, and the self-exploration will enable her to learn to love parts of herself she didn’t know existed. In the era of performativity, where social critics can smell inauthenticity from a mile away, Dean leaves nothing but roses and class in her midst.  

“Baby Steps” is a reminder for us not to get trapped in an endless cycle of external validation, but to embrace ourselves as we are. Dean takes us on a journey of not waiting around for an imaginary lover to sweep her off her feet; she books the flight despite that absence, as she is not waiting around for a hypothetical someone to fulfill her needs. She knows her time is valuable and she is not wasting it. What may seem like a small “baby step” for Dean is a giant leap for those of us contemplating buying those tickets or flowers.