What Exactly Is Indie Music?

If you're an aspiring indie musician aiming to break into the music industry, understanding the basics of indie music and navigating its unique path are crucial first steps. To succeed, you must ask yourself some key questions: What type of artist do you want to be? How far do you want to take your career? And do you want to handle things independently, or will you seek professional help along the way? These questions will help set your direction, shape your goals, and ultimately lead you to the crucial question of Indie vs. Major Record Labels: Which is best for you?
What Is Indie Music?
The term "indie" is short for "independent," meaning music created by artists without the support of major labels or corporations. Indie artists often release their music on smaller, independent labels or even entirely on their own. While some indie artists, like Arcade Fire, have transitioned to major labels, indie is less about genre and more about self-sufficiency and creative autonomy.
Indie music spans many genres and styles, drawing inspiration from various sources, making it difficult to pigeonhole. Indie labels often differ from major labels in one key aspect: their primary focus is on the music, not just commercial success. Indie labels allow artists greater creative freedom, which can foster the development of alternative subcultures and genres, including indie rock, punk, grunge, and more.
Indie Labels vs. Major Labels: Which is Right for You?
Indie publishers are the industry's new puppies. They are far better at adapting to changing cultural environments. Indie labels may not be able to offer the same level of financial support or large-scale opportunities as major corporations, but their sole focus is on the music. They give their artists more loving direction than major labels, allowing them more creative freedom. Indie labels have historically played a significant role in the formation of alternative music subcultures such as alternative rock, punk, and grunge.
While there is often more freedoms and emphasis on the music at independent labels, they can't always support artists in breaking into the mainstream. For example, you're far less likely to hear an indie artist playing over a PA system in a shop, providing the background music at top roulette sites, or in advertisements.
With that being said, many independent music genres are quite popular, with many indie pop and indie rock performers achieving notable success. Even among our 2019 musicians to watch, indie artists far outnumbered major label artists. If you're looking for new indie music or independent music tracks, researching labels is a great place to start.
Choosing between an indie and a major label depends on your goals, resources, and desired level of control over your music. Here’s a breakdown:
- Indie Labels: Indie labels are often more agile and open to adapting to cultural changes. They focus more on the music than on commercial metrics and offer artists more creative input. However, their financial backing and promotional reach are usually more limited than major labels.
- Major Labels: Major labels provide substantial financial resources, large-scale marketing, and industry connections, which can catapult an artist to fame. However, they also demand more control over the artist's image, creative output, and sometimes even career direction.
Indie labels have been integral in building the foundation of various alternative music movements, and even today, indie artists frequently appear on "ones to watch" lists. If you're interested in checking out emerging indie talent, consider exploring playlists that focus on independent music across streaming platforms.
Identifying the Right Path for You
If you're uncertain about which type of label to approach, consider researching where your musical influences are signed. This can provide valuable insight into the industry path they’ve taken. Here are some guiding points to consider:
- Self-Release: Some artists choose to go completely independent, handling distribution through platforms like TuneCore, DistroKid, and Bandcamp. This allows them to retain full control and profits but requires additional work in terms of promotion, legal matters, and production quality.
- Indie Label: Partnering with an indie label can offer you access to resources and industry insights without losing creative control. Indie labels tend to be more supportive of an artist’s unique vision and often work with smaller teams, providing a more personal touch.
- Major Label: While some indie artists eventually sign to major labels for broader reach, it typically comes with a trade-off in creative freedom. Major labels manage business and legal responsibilities, freeing up the artist’s time to focus on music creation, but it may come with contractual limitations.
Building Your Indie Career: Tips and Strategies
Becoming a successful indie artist requires more than just releasing music. Here are some essential steps to get your career off the ground:
- Create a Unique Sound: One of the defining characteristics of indie music is its diversity. Draw on different influences and experiment to develop a unique sound that stands out. Remember, indie fans are often attracted to innovation and authenticity.
- Leverage Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are critical tools for indie artists. Use them to share your journey, connect with fans, and promote your work. Engaging content and regular updates can build a loyal following.
- Network and Collaborate: Attend local gigs, join music groups, and collaborate with other indie artists. Networking can open doors to opportunities, and collaborations often lead to new fanbases and fresh inspiration.
- Consider Crowdfunding: Platforms like Patreon, Kickstarter, and GoFundMe allow fans to support artists directly. Crowdfunding can help you finance albums, tours, and music videos while maintaining your independence.
- Utilize Digital Distribution Platforms: Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Bandcamp make it easier to reach a global audience. Familiarise yourself with playlisting strategies, as playlists can significantly increase your music's exposure.
- Perform Live: Live performances are essential for building a fan base and generating revenue. Start small with local gigs, then gradually expand your reach. Indie fans appreciate seeing artists in intimate settings, so even small venues can make a big impact.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
The indie versus major label debate has no one-size-fits-all answer. Each path has its benefits and drawbacks. Major labels offer substantial financial and promotional support, but they also demand greater control over the artist’s image and sound. Indie labels provide more freedom and a personalized approach but may lack the resources of major labels. Self-releasing provides total control and independence, but it requires a strong DIY spirit and a willingness to juggle multiple roles.
To make the right decision, weigh your priorities as an artist, be clear about your long-term goals, and consider both the creative and practical aspects of each option. Ultimately, staying true to your music and building a supportive fan base are keys to sustaining a successful indie career.