After many hours going through the submissions for this year’s A New Local Hero Search, we have finally whittled it down to the final 4.

Please take a listen to the artists’ live recordings, which were recorded at WAMA

Aaron Coughlan:

Aaron Coughlan is a 21-year-old singer-songwriter from Waterford City who began releasing his own music in February 2026. With his third single of the year due for release on August 21, Aaron is building momentum with his original music and live performances.

He is continuing to gig around Waterford with the aim of reaching new audiences and growing his profile as an artist. Winning the competition would help Aaron invest in studio time towards his goal of recording and releasing a full album.

Listen here.

Carrie Fitz:

Carrie Fitz is a singer-songwriter from Tramore, County Waterford, whose music blends elements of pop, rock and country. Writing and performing for over two years, Carrie is known for her upbeat, lively songs and her love of performing live and connecting with new audiences.

This year, Carrie has performed at Kaleidoscope Festival and Heatwave Festival Waterford, while last year saw her take to the stage at Spraoi Festival and Tramore Summer Sessions.

Listen here.

Hannah English:

At just 16 years old, Hannah English from Waterford City is already making her mark as a singer-songwriter. Hannah has always dreamed of pursuing music as a career and currently has three original songs available across all major streaming platforms.

Winning the competition would allow Hannah to spend more time doing what she loves most — being in the studio, creating new music and developing her sound.

Listen here.

Shane Barry:

Waterford-based singer-songwriter and producer Shane Barry returned to releasing music in 2026 following a quieter year, with new material being released both under his own name and through his Americana project, The Night Post.

His 2026 solo release, ‘Later Than You Think’, features his regular backing band and showcases his signature sound, blending straight-up pop with influences from the 1960s to the 1980s. Shane released his debut solo album, ‘Songs from the Silver South’, in 2023, followed by the live album ‘A Thursday Night Live’ in 2025.

Following a successful year of sold-out performances, including the Roots Festival, Shane is currently preparing two new EPs for release this autumn, with a support slot with The Blades in Bank Lane set for November.

Listen here

Vote Now.

Submit your favourite artists in the form below. Please note that the public vote is only part of the final vote, as all four acts will also go through a WLR judging panel.

Search for A New Local Hero is part of Irish Music Month – Irish Radio Supporting Irish Artists – brought to you by Hot Press and the IBI in association with WLR FM, supported by Coimisiún na Meán Sound & Vision Scheme, funded by the Television Licence Fee