Sam Fender and Olivia Dean have achieved a significant milestone in UK music history, with their collaborative track "Rein Me In" now holding the record for the longest-running number one single by a British act. The song has spent 16 weeks atop the charts, surpassing the 1994 record set by Wet Wet Wet's "Love Is All Around."
Fender expressed his astonishment at the song's success, calling it "ridiculous" and an "excuse to party." He credited Dean's contribution for broadening the song's appeal, stating, "Olivia putting the alternative narrative on it made the song really universal – that opened the floodgates. There's two sides to the story. And, it's a toe tapper! It's officially a banger!"
The Official Charts' Interim Co-Managing Directors, Becca Monahan and Chris Austin, acknowledged the achievement, noting that few chart records have endured as long as the one previously held by Wet Wet Wet. They highlighted that "Rein Me In" has "captured the nation's imagination" and that its 16-week run at number one reflects its widespread impact.
Wet Wet Wet extended their congratulations to Fender and Dean, expressing pride in British artists who create music that resonates with the public. The band acknowledged the enduring legacy of "Love Is All Around," which held the record for over 30 years.
"Rein Me In" is featured on Fender's album "People Watching." Separately, Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger recently revealed himself to be a fan of Sam Fender, describing the "People Watching" album as "stunning" and noting the "lyrically interesting" nature of tracks like "Crumbling Empire."
Jagger also commented on Fender's second album, "Seventeen Going Under," acknowledging "good stuff" on it and praising Fender's ability to write songs with "good choruses" and "interesting lyrics reflective of his experience growing up." He further noted Fender's talent for creating "working class songs" while remaining "very pop orientated," suggesting Fender could be a strong collaborator for the Rolling Stones.
Sam Fender and Olivia Dean have smashed a chart record held by Wet Wet Wet as their song Rein Me In becomes the longest-running No.1 single by a British act (picured 2026 at the Brits)
Wet Wet Wet lead singer Marti Pelow [pictured in 1989) 
Pictured: Marti Pellow, Tommy Cunningham, Neil Mitchell, and Graeme Clark of pop band Wet Wet Wet in 2004)
Sam released the track more than a year ago on his solo album and he says watching its success has been 'ridiculous' and an 'excuse to party'
