The April 2025 edition of the Hot Press Magazine Readers’ Poll “proved to be one of the most closely-fought in recent memory with over 25,000 votes cast from Hot Press readers and music fans of every persuasion.”

The 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 categories included tracks, albums, debut projects, live acts, songwriters, and more, across multiple genres.

Results included Best Musician: Accordionist Sharon Shannon who performs regularly in the UK.

The Henry Girls were nominated in the Best Folk/Trad Category
“The Henry Girls” are sisters Karen, Lorna and Joleen McLaughlin (Ireland), who perform a variety of Irish traditional and contemporary music.