Their duet reaches 19 weeks at number one, surpassing a record set in 1953
Category: Arts & Culture
Sam Fender and Olivia Dean have made music history, as their hit single "Rein Me In" has now spent 19 non-consecutive weeks at number one on the UK Official Singles Chart, breaking a record that stood for 73 years. The Official Charts Company confirmed this milestone on July 31, 2026, marking the end of Frankie Laine's long-held record for his 1953 classic "I Believe," which spent 18 weeks at the top.
This achievement highlights the duo's remarkable success and reflects the current vibrancy of British music. "Rein Me In" initially entered the charts in June 2025 and steadily climbed to the top, finally reaching number one on February 20, 2026. Since then, it has faced tough competition from major artists like Harry Styles, Olivia Rodrigo, Ariana Grande, and Taylor Swift, yet it has always managed to reclaim its position at the summit.
Accepting a special record breaker award from the Official Charts Company, Fender expressed his gratitude, saying, "Completely lost for words, thank you so much to Olivia Dean and the fans for making this song the juggernaut that it is. Can’t believe we broke the U.K. record!" His appreciation for Dean and their fans reflects the collaborative spirit that has characterized their success.
Since its debut, "Rein Me In" has not only topped the charts but has also been recognized as the longest-running number one single of the 2020s. It surpassed Alex Warren's "Ordinary" and Drake's "One Dance" to claim this title. In its sixteenth week at number one, it also overtook Wet Wet Wet's "Love Is All Around" and Bryan Adams' "(Everything I Do) I Do It For You," establishing itself as the longest-running number one by a British act.
The song's remarkable run can be attributed to its slow-burn success. Initially, it hovered around the top 20 before finally reaching the pinnacle in February. The ascent was not without challenges, as it faced stiff competition from chart-toppers like Shakira and Burna Boy's "Dai Dai," the anthem for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which managed to reach number two during its reign.
Fender's "Rein Me In" is featured on his third album, "People Watching," which won the Mercury Prize in 2025. The song was re-released as a duet with Dean in June 2025, solidifying their partnership. At the 2026 Brit Awards, the song was awarded Song of the Year, beating out other prominent tracks like Raye's "Where Is My Husband!" and Dean's own "Man I Need." Dean herself won four Brit Awards that night and has also been recognized internationally, receiving her first Grammy earlier this year.
Becca Monahan and Chris Austin, interim co-managing directors of Official Charts, commented on the significance of this achievement, stating, "For Rein Me In to break a record that has stood for 73 years is remarkable in itself, but it feels especially important to see two homegrown British artists write a new chapter in Official Chart history together." This sentiment captures the pride felt within the music industry as it celebrates British talent.
Looking ahead, Fender and Dean’s success with "Rein Me In" sets a high bar for future artists. The song's impact on the charts could inspire a new generation of musicians striving for similar achievements. As British music continues to compete on a global stage, this record serves as a reminder of the potential for homegrown talent to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Currently, "Rein Me In" sits at number 69 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, illustrating its international appeal. Dean has also made waves in the U.S. music scene, with two top 10 songs under her belt. Meanwhile, Fender's ascent in the industry marks a notable moment for British artists, who are increasingly gaining recognition overseas.
The continued success of "Rein Me In" is a cause for celebration within the UK music community. As the song remains at the top of the charts, the anticipation builds for what’s next for both artists. With Dean’s album "The Art Of Loving" recently shortlisted for the 2026 Mercury Prize, her momentum shows no signs of slowing down. The music industry will follow closely closely to see how both artists continue to evolve and inspire.
As the music world reflects on this historic achievement, it is clear that Sam Fender and Olivia Dean have not only broken records but have also cemented their places in the annals of British music history. The Official Charts Company has recognized their accomplishment as a defining moment, one that will be celebrated for years to come.