Olivia Dean Tops Triple J Hottest 100 Countdown

The annual triple j Hottest 100 countdown—an event that’s become something of a musical holiday for Australians—wrapped up on January 24, 2026, capping off a year of fierce competition, diverse sounds, and a few record-breaking surprises. After months of anticipation and millions of votes cast by fans across the globe, the coveted number one spot for 2025 went to Olivia Dean with her song “Man I Need,” marking a triumphant moment in the British singer-songwriter’s career and reflecting a year where her music resonated deeply with listeners far and wide.

Voting for this year’s Hottest 100 opened in late 2025 and closed just over a week before the big reveal, according to Rolling Stone AU/NZ. The lead-up was filled with speculation and excitement, as early signs pointed to one of the most competitive and unpredictable countdowns in recent memory. With 26 debut entries and a record number of back-to-back appearances by artists, the 2025 list showcased both fresh talent and returning favorites, making for a tense finish as the final votes were tallied.

As the live broadcast unfolded, it quickly became apparent that this year’s Hottest 100 was not just about the music, but about the community it brings together. From backyard barbecues to beachside parties, Australians tuned in en masse, eager to see where their favorite tracks would land. The atmosphere was electric, with social media buzzing over every new entry and surprise placement.

Olivia Dean’s dominance in the countdown was unmistakable. Not only did she clinch the top spot with “Man I Need,” but her presence was felt throughout the list. “Nice To Each Other” landed inside the top ten, while “So Easy (To Fall In Love)” and “Lady Lady” made strong showings as well. According to Rolling Stone AU/NZ, Dean’s consistent high placements signaled more than just a fleeting surge of popularity—it was a testament to her broad appeal and the sustained support she received from triple j listeners. Few artists in the 2025 countdown matched that level of consistency, making her victory all the more impressive.

“Man I Need” edged out fierce competition from a mix of local and international acts. Keli Holiday’s “Dancing2” took the runner-up spot, while Tame Impala’s “Dracula” rounded out the top three. Playlunch’s “Keith” and RAYE’s “WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!” completed the top five, reflecting a year where pop and electro sounds dominated the airwaves. Australian artists made a particularly strong showing, with acts like The Tullamarines, Ninajirachi, and Spacey Jane staking their claim alongside global heavyweights such as Tyler, The Creator and Lorde.

The diversity of the 2025 list was one of its defining features. According to Rolling Stone AU/NZ, the countdown included 26 debut entries—a clear sign that new voices are breaking through and making their mark. The list also set a new record for back-to-back appearances, highlighting the enduring popularity of certain artists. Whether it was homegrown talent or international stars, the Hottest 100 offered a snapshot of a music scene that’s both vibrant and ever-evolving.

But the Hottest 100 wasn’t just about the music. This year, the event once again partnered with the homelessness charity We Are Mobilise, raising more than $176,000 to support people doing it tough across Australia, as reported by Rolling Stone AU/NZ. The partnership added a philanthropic dimension to the festivities, reminding listeners that their participation in the countdown could make a real-world difference.

The excitement didn’t end with the top 100. Fans looking to keep the party going had plenty to look forward to, with Double J set to revisit the Hottest 100 of 2005 on Sunday, January 25, 2026. Then, from Tuesday, January 27 to Friday, January 30, triple j’s Hottest 200 of 2025 would air, featuring 20 songs a day from 8am to 4pm. The grand finale was scheduled for Saturday, January 31, when the entire Hottest 200 would play in full from 10am local time—a fitting celebration for a year that saw so many memorable tracks and moments.

Looking at the full list, it’s clear that listeners’ tastes are as eclectic as ever. Songs like “Please Don’t Move To Melbourne” by Ball Park Music, “No Broke Boys” by Disco Lines & Tinashe, and “12 to 12” by sombr found their way into the top ten, each bringing something unique to the table. Meanwhile, established acts like Tame Impala, Spacey Jane, and G Flip continued to command attention with multiple entries across the chart.

For many, the Hottest 100 is more than just a countdown—it’s a cultural touchstone, a moment to reflect on the year’s highs and lows through the lens of music. The 2025 edition was no exception. With millions of votes cast, the event once again sparked nationwide debate, celebration, and plenty of friendly arguments about which songs truly deserved their place in the sun.

The competitive spirit was palpable, but so too was the sense of camaraderie among fans and artists alike. As Rolling Stone AU/NZ put it, the stage was set for a tense finish, with artists vying for top-ten spots, record-breaking moments, and a shot at Hottest 100 glory. And while only one song could take the crown, the real winner was the community that came together to celebrate the music that defined their year.

As the dust settles on another Hottest 100, attention now turns to what the next year will bring. If 2025’s countdown is any indication, the future of Australian and international music is as bright—and unpredictable—as ever. For Olivia Dean and the many artists who made their mark, it’s a moment to savor and a springboard for whatever comes next.

With a mix of nostalgia, excitement, and hope, the triple j Hottest 100 continues to prove why it’s one of the most beloved traditions in Australian music. Here’s to another year of unforgettable songs, passionate fans, and the magic that happens when a nation comes together to celebrate the soundtrack of its life.