The Hot Press Yearbook 2020 is out now – featuring Fontaines D.C., Dermot Kennedy, Lankum, Saint Sister, The Murder Capital and Loah as our cover stars.

Described as “the Bible” by experts as various as Dave Fanning, Louis Walsh, Eleanor McEvoy and Tom Dunne, the Yearbook is THE essential guide to the music, entertainment and media industry in Ireland.

In our cover story, we take an in-depth look at how Irish music has soared to dazzling heights in 2020 – with Irish acts tearing up the charts at home and abroad. One of the big shifts that has taken place in the industry over the past decade is that live music has become the primary source of income for most acts. We talk to leading agents Steve Strange of X-Ray and Sarah Besnard of ATC Live about their approach to Irish acts – and also look at what is happening in A&R in Ireland and further afield.

We also share Stuart Clark’s panel discussion from the Hot Press MIX (Music Industry Xplained) Course Wrap Night, featuring Trevor Dietz, Luan Parle, Jenny Headen and Ruth Scott – with big breaks, radio airplay, PR, festivals, merchandise, music colleges and the rise of Fontaines D.C. all up for debate. Elsewhere, Spotify UK & Ireland Head of Music, Sulinna Ong, sits down with Peter McGoran, to discuss the evolution of streaming culture, and how it can benefit musicians.

In a special introduction, editor Niall Stokes, reflects on a remarkable year in Irish music, celebrating the continuing success being achieved by Irish artists and bands around the world. However, he also points out the fly in the ointment: the cost of living in our major cities, especially Dublin, is beginning to drive our artists away.

The Hot Press Yearbook also includes a Who’s Who of the key movers and shakers in the Irish music, media and entertainment industries; and a complete listing of all the major businesses and services in what is one of Ireland’s most important industries.

Pick up your own copy of the Hot Press Yearbook 2020 in-stores or online now: