You responded in your droves to our call for nominations – now it's time to reveal the shortlists for the Hot Press Readers' Poll 2025, and invite you to vote for your favourites!

This now-legendary Readers' Poll – also known as the Hotties – allows you, the music fans, to have your say, and celebrate the artists and projects that brought some inspiration and light to your year.

This year's shortlists reflect the dazzling variety of sounds and ideas we all connected to over the past 12 months, including tracks, albums, debut projects, live acts, songwriters, and more – across multiple genres.

But the poll also extends beyond music – with categories for comedians, radio DJs, films, TV shows, and books...

As part of the Hot Press Readers' Poll, you also get to cast your vote for the Hot Press Live Venue of the Year Award – with the winner set to be honoured at the IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year Awards on March 25.

All of the shortlists are bursting with talent – but remember, there can only be one winner in each category. So, vote now for your favourites – and decide who will be crowned victorious in the Hotties 2025...