Over the course of the past few years, popstar-in-waiting Olivia Browse has been making an impact on the North West music scene with a genre-bending collection of releases. Based in Manchester, her infectious bubblegum-pop sound has been integral to her success, and her ability to incorporate different genres and influences into her music has truly set her apart from the rest.
Taking inspiration from a wide variety of artists, ranging from singer-songwriters such as Stella Donnelly and Kate Nash, to Britpop bands such as Pulp and The Smiths; even to modern pop artists like Charli XCX and Rina Sawayama, her music encompasses a vast range of inspiration in order to create something that is truly unique and true to Olivia’s style.
Olivia’s signature brit-pop/indie sound was cemented in her earlier singles, and her songwriting style really stands her out as a down-to-earth artist, writing about her experiences moving up from Essex; she works alongside her producer and partner Shtum to record her songs in her home studio. Throughout her releases, the diversity and creativity really shine, with her songs ranging from hyperpop to acoustic folk, yet still maintaining her original britpop and indie elements, showing the talent and chemistry shared between her and Shtum. Throughout the course of her career, Olivia has amassed nearly 90,000 streams on her releases on Spotify, and performed across the North West at various prestigious venues in Manchester, Liverpool and more.
Her 2022 release “love at first might as well” marked Olivia’s take on more pop-styled music, whilst still keeping to her unique sound – it’s been gaining a huge amount of traction, being added to a bunch of Spotify editorial playlists, getting radio play across the country, and even being put on BBC Radio Essex’s Best of 2022! Featuring Derby-based rapper Stakes, whose skilful flow and tactical rhyming schemes only add to the variety and diversity of Olivia’s music.
Her brand new single “debbie harry”, came out on the 18th of August and sees a return to her self-termed “sad bops”, touching on topics of nostalgia, alcohol and drug abuse, and the villainization of women in the media – her ability to convey subject matter such as these in a poetic and musical manner is only testament to her lyrical ability. With a gorgeous guitar sample leading the instrumentation, and a real groove on the rhythm of the track – it gives Olivia ample space for her vocal to shine and command the track. Her playful and sarcastic tone to the track really add the finishing touch for the song, proving her talent is in abundance.
Olivia’s debut EP “have you heard of olivia browse?” was released on the 29th of March 2024, and sees previous singles “debbie harry” and “love at first might as well” being joined by three new tracks, exploring genres and expanding Olivia’s dynamic sound – proving her worth as a songwriter, creative and musician; plus with production from the incredible Shtum, it sets a real benchmark and sets her as one to watch for the future of UK music.
“Olivia Browse is a Manchester based indie-pop artist who uses cleverly crafted lyrics, catchy melodies and an edge of honesty to create absolute ear worms that will have you dancing around your room or curled up in your feelings. From bubble-gum sweet 2000s nostalgia to all of the aching of being alone in your room, Olivia Browse’s music manages to encapsulate a whole spectrum of emotion, but what is always present is the wit and personality that shines through in each and every tune.” – @wherearethegirlbands
“Olivia Browse gives a slacker-pop edge to her solo songwriter output, with help from generous amounts of reverb and a strong sense of aesthetic. The catchiness of the songs helps – and it has all added up to make the London native a favourite on the Manchester music circuit.” – Joseph Stevens, RGM Magazine
“I admire her balls for not sticking to the status quo and writing about pleasant things like falling in love. I think a lot of young people will be able to extract something from this track; It’s haunting because it’s real shit that’s happening right now. Keep an eye peeled for Olivia Browse.” – Ella Hardy, Somebody Save Music
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