We might have hoped that 2022 would see a return to what people call ’normality’ after the pandemic. But that word doesn’t seem to apply anymore. In a thoroughly mixed-up, shook-up world, it seems tat there is no end to the outrages. The role of music in that context is varied. It can be a balm to soothe the troubled soul. It can be a rite of passage. It can be a form of escapism. It can bring joy and induce happiness. It can celebrate the simple fact that we are alive and in a position – some of us at least – to enjoy ourselves. Or it can help us to focus on the issues that really matter: injustice, the climate crisis, the attack on democracy, the rise of totalitarianism and its sister far right ideologies – the better to enable us to fight the good fight going forward into he unknowable future.

It’s fair to say that in 2023, music in Ireland did all of that and more. Really and truly, there has been a tsunami of phenomenal music being made here – and across the world – in spite of the madness and the mayhem.

So, we’re calling on all music fans to help us celebrate the best acts, tracks, albums and more – as we proudly reveal our star-studded shortlist for this year's Hot Press Readers' Poll! With a dazzlingly diverse selection of talent on offer right across the country, homegrown music has never been so brilliant and exciting – as evidenced by the highly competitive shortlist for The Hotties 2023.

Every year, we invite our readers to have their say on their favourite Irish album, debut album, track, musician, group, most promising act, electronic act, hip-hop act, folk act, comedian and DJ, plus all their highlights on the international front.

The nominations for 2023 have been pouring in since January. Did all your favourites make the shortlist? The competition is fierce – but there can only be one winner in each category! So get on down to it and vote now for all your favourites. The future depends on you!