Sam Fender and Olivia Dean Break UK Chart Record with Rein Me In

Sam Fender and Olivia Dean’s collaborative single “Rein Me In” has shattered the UK’s longest-standing chart record, securing 19 non-consecutive weeks at the top of the Official Singles Chart. The achievement, confirmed on July 31, 2026, surpasses the 18-week reign of Frankie Laine’s “I Believe” in 1953, a record that had endured for 73 years.

Timeline of a Chart Milestone

“Rein Me In” first debuted on Fender’s 2025 album *People Watching* before a reimagined version featuring Dean was released in June 2025. The track spent 35 weeks climbing the charts, ultimately reaching the summit in February 2026. During its 19-week tenure at No. 1, it faced competition from high-profile releases, including Shakira and Burna Boy’s “Dai Dai,” which held the top spot midweek before settling at No. 2. Other tracks that briefly displaced it included Harry Styles (“American Girls,” one week), Olivia Rodrigo (“Drop Dead,” one week), Ariana Grande (“Hate That I Made You Love Me,” one week), and Taylor Swift (“I Knew It, I Knew You,” one week).

The song’s journey to the record was marked by its resilience and cultural resonance. It became the longest-running No. 1 of the 2020s after 14 weeks, overtaking Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” (2025), and surpassed Drake’s “One Dance” (2016) as the longest-running No. 1 of the 21st century after 16 weeks. It also claimed the title of the longest-running No. 1 by a British act, eclipsing Wet Wet Wet’s 1995 record for “Love Is All Around.”

Official Response and Industry Recognition

The Official Charts Company acknowledged the feat as a “fantastic moment to celebrate British creativity,” with interim co-managing directors Becca Monahan and Chris Austin highlighting the significance of Fender and Dean as “homegrown British artists” competing on a global stage. Fender, who called the achievement “completely lost for words,” credited Dean and fans for the song’s success, stating, “Can’t believe we broke the UK record!”

Dean, who secured her second No. 1 with the track, saw her career propelled by the collaboration. The song won Song of the Year at the 2026 BRIT Awards and became a catalyst for her Grammy, MOBO, and BRIT Award wins. Fender, meanwhile, earned his first No. 1, marking a career milestone for the North Shields artist.

Chart Context and Fan Engagement

The record-breaking week saw “Dai Dai” at No. 2, followed by Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” at No. 3. Olivia Rodrigo’s “Stupid Song” and ANORT/54 Ultra’s “Talk to You” completed the top five. The song’s peak on the Billboard Hot 100 was No. 64, with its current position at No. 69.

Fender’s team engaged fans in the record attempt, encouraging downloads of the track for 59p. Nineteen fans who purchased it before a deadline were entered to win an Official Charts Fan award, while 19 others could win a “Rein Me In” T-shirt. The campaign underscored the track’s grassroots support, which Fender described as “an excuse to party.”

Artistic and Cultural Impact

“Rein Me In” originated as a track from Fender’s *People Watching* album, later reworked as a pop-rock ballad with Dean’s contribution. The collaboration transformed the song into a “universal” narrative, with Fender noting that Dean’s “alternative perspective” added depth to the lyrics. The track’s theme—a raw exploration of a relationship’s breakdown—resonated with listeners, contributing to its longevity on the charts.

Fender’s live performances, including a viral rendition at London Stadium in June 2025 and a homecoming show in Newcastle, further cemented the song’s popularity. The collaboration also highlighted the evolving dynamics of UK music, with Fender and Dean representing a new era of cross-genre and cross-generational success.

The record’s significance extends beyond chart statistics. It reflects the enduring influence of British artists in a globalized industry and the power of fan-driven support in shaping musical legacies. As the song continues its historic run, its impact on the UK music scene remains proof of its artistry and the collective effort of its creators and supporters.