10 Irish Artists Like Hozier: The Best Irish Musicians to Listen to Next
If you're a fan of Hozier, chances are you're drawn to emotionally powerful songwriting, soulful vocals, poetic lyrics, and music that feels deeply connected to Ireland's storytelling tradition. While Hozier has become one of Ireland's biggest global music exports, he's far from the only Irish artist creating beautiful, heartfelt music.
From folk-inspired singer-songwriters to indie bands blending traditional Irish influences with modern sounds, here are 10 Irish artists and bands that every Hozier fan should add to their playlist.
1. Dermot Kennedy
Few modern Irish artists have achieved the international success of Dermot Kennedy. Born in Dublin, Kennedy built a devoted following through raw acoustic performances before breaking through with his debut album Without Fear. His music blends folk storytelling, pop melodies, and hip-hop-inspired rhythms, creating a sound that feels both intimate and arena-ready. Like Hozier, Kennedy's lyrics often explore love, loss, hope, and resilience with remarkable emotional honesty. His best-known songs include Outnumbered
, Power Over Me
, Giants
, and Kiss Me
.
2. Kingfishr
One of Ireland's most exciting emerging bands, Kingfishr have rapidly become festival favorites thanks to their soaring folk-rock sound and distinctly Irish identity. Formed in Limerick, the trio combines rich harmonies, atmospheric production, and storytelling rooted in Irish landscapes and culture. Their music captures the same blend of modern alternative folk and traditional influences that has made Hozier so beloved. Popular tracks include Killeagh
, Flowers-Fire
, Eyes Don't Lie
, and Shot in the Dark
.
3. David Keenan
For fans of Hozier's poetic side, David Keenan is an essential listen. Hailing from Dundalk, Keenan has earned praise for his lyrical depth and literary songwriting style. His music draws inspiration from folk, rock, spoken word, and Irish storytelling traditions, resulting in songs that feel deeply personal and intellectually rich. Keenan's distinctive voice and fearless songwriting have made him one of Ireland's most respected contemporary artists. Notable songs include James Dean
, Altar Wine
, Evidence of Living
, and Postcards from Cork
.
4. Amble
Amble are part of a new wave of Irish folk artists capturing audiences with stripped-back acoustic arrangements and heartfelt songwriting. The trio's music emphasizes storytelling, harmonies, and emotional authenticity, qualities that resonate strongly with Hozier fans. Their songs often explore themes of relationships, personal growth, and everyday Irish life. As their audience continues to grow, tracks like Lonely Island
, Mary's Pub
, and Of Land and Sea
, have helped establish them as one of Ireland's most promising folk acts.
5. Lisa Hannigan
Lisa Hannigan has long been one of Ireland's most cherished singer-songwriters. After first gaining recognition as a collaborator with Damien Rice, she launched a successful solo career defined by delicate vocals, intricate arrangements, and deeply emotional songwriting. Hannigan's music blends folk, indie, and chamber-pop influences into something uniquely atmospheric. Fans of Hozier's softer, more intimate moments will find much to love in songs such as Lille
, Passionfruit
, What'll I Do
, and Undertow
.
6. James Vincent McMorrow
James Vincent McMorrow combines folk roots with modern indie, soul, and electronic influences. Emerging from Dublin's music scene, he first gained attention with the acoustic-driven album Early in the Morning before evolving into a more experimental artist. Like Hozier, McMorrow possesses a distinctive vocal style and a gift for emotionally resonant songwriting. His most well-known songs include Higher Love
, We Don't Eat
, Get Low
and Rising Water
.
7. Ye Vagabonds
Brother duo Ye Vagabonds have become one of Ireland's leading contemporary folk acts. Their music draws heavily from traditional Irish folk while incorporating modern songwriting sensibilities and stunning vocal harmonies. Their work captures the spirit of Irish musical heritage while remaining fresh and relevant for contemporary audiences. Hozier fans who appreciate folk traditions will likely enjoy songs such as The Foggy Dew
, Blue Is the Eye
, I'm a Rover
and The Hare's Lament
.
8. Saint Sister
Saint Sister bring a unique and ethereal sound to Ireland's music landscape. The Dublin duo blends folk, electronic textures, harp arrangements, and atmospheric production to create what they have described as atmosfolk
. Their music shares Hozier's ability to balance modern sounds with Celtic influences and emotional storytelling. Essential listening includes Causing Trouble
, Tin Man
, Madrid
, and Corpse
.
9. Damien Rice
No list of Irish artists similar to Hozier would be complete without Damien Rice. Widely regarded as one of Ireland's greatest singer-songwriters, Rice became internationally known for his intensely emotional performances and minimalist folk arrangements. His influence can be heard throughout modern Irish songwriting, including in many artists who followed him. Songs such as The Blower's Daughter
, Cannonball
, 9 Crimes
, and Volcano
remain modern classics and showcase his extraordinary gift for conveying vulnerability through music.
10. The Frames / Glen Hansard
The Frames and their frontman Glen Hansard have been central figures in Irish music for decades. Hansard's passionate songwriting and unmistakable voice helped establish The Frames as one of Ireland's most beloved rock bands before his acclaimed solo career and Academy Award-winning work on Once. Much like Hozier, Hansard combines emotional depth with powerful vocal performances and literary songwriting. Essential songs include Falling Slowly
, Star Star
, Revelate
, and The Cost
.
Why Hozier Fans Love These Irish Artists
What connects these artists isn't just their Irish roots—it's their commitment to authentic storytelling, emotional honesty, and musicianship. Whether it's the soulful intensity of Dermot Kennedy, the poetic songwriting of David Keenan, the folk traditions of Ye Vagabonds, or the timeless artistry of Damien Rice and Glen Hansard, each offers something that resonates with the qualities that make Hozier such a compelling artist.
If you've had Hozier's music on repeat and are searching for your next favorite Irish musician, these 10 artists are the perfect place to start.
