Six National Finalists Revealed For New Local Hero 2026 Live Finale

Tickets are on sale now for the showcase at The Academy, Dublin, Oct 28th.

Six of Ireland's most exciting emerging music acts have been chosen as finalists in the a New Local Hero 2026.  We are counting the days to the final at The Academy in Dublin on Wednesday, 28th October.  Who's coming?  

This final shortlist, follows a nationwide talent search led by Hot Press and the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI).  An industry judging panel selected the six acts from a shortlist of 21 regional Local Heroes.

The six acts, listed alphabetically, are:

• Groev (Galway Bay FM)
• Rebecca Lane (FM104)
• RunTheRed (LMFM)
• Shimmer Boy (Cork's 96FM)
• Sitting Room (KFM)
• WineMom (Radio Nova)

A €10,000 Prize Package

So what happens next? All six finalists will perform live on the night. One act will be crowned A New Local Hero 2026. The winner will receive a prize package worth €10,000, including €5,000 in cash and a further €5,000 worth of industry support. That includes recording at Camden Recording Studios in Dublin, mixing and mastering, and the release of a single through Irish independent label Rubyworks.

A €2,500 Wildcard Award Still Up For Grabs By All 21 Local Heroes

While six acts will perform at the national finale, the competition is far from over for the remaining Local Heroes. All 21 regional finalists are still eligible for the Irish Music Month Wildcard Award. That includes East Coast FM winner Niamh Beatrix. 

You can still have your say as the Wildcard Award is decided by a public vote. Why not listen to the competing artists and support your favourite!

Cast Your Vote Here 

Irish Music Month…Irish Radio Supporting Irish Artists - brought to you by Hot Press and the IBI in association with East Coast FM supported by Coimisiún na Meán Sound & Vision Scheme, funded by the Television License Fee.