Today, indie music is one of the most popular genres in music, but the origins of this sound go as far back as the 1960s to bands like The Kinks. This sound evolved over the next couple of decades until a distinctive genre known as indie was established in the early 1980s. For some musicians, as important as the music that the band creates, it is also important that they should be signed to independent record labels to ensure they do not have to 'sell out' and compromise their artistic vision.
Early indie success stories like REM and The Pixies became popular in the USA. Meanwhile, in the UK, The Smiths were to release their debut album in 1984, also called The Smiths, and go on to become on of the most influential bands on the indie music scene.
Throughout the 90s a new sound called grunge developed. Leading this new sound was Pearl Jam and Nirvana, who became especially popular with younger listeners. Lo-fi was another sound that developed. The sound, most commonly associated with Beck, prioritises eschewing popular tastes and using simplistic recording techniques.
However, with the ever-increasing popularity of indie rock bands and the increased exposure that the internet provided, the new millennium saw bands such as Death Cab For Cutie and Modest Mouse signing for major labels. Nevertheless, other bands like Bright Eyes were able to acquire commercial and critical success while remaining signed to independent record labels.
Today indie music is popular in many parts of the world, with independent music scenes in every major city. Some indie music scenes have helped cultivate talent - in Manchester during the late 80s the Madchester scene saw bands such as James, Happy Mondays and The Stone Roses rise to prominence. Whether or not indie bands choose to sign with major or independent labels, many agree that it is essential these bands remain in control of the music they make.
Early indie success stories like REM and The Pixies became popular in the USA. Meanwhile, in the UK, The Smiths were to release their debut album in 1984, also called The Smiths, and go on to become on of the most influential bands on the indie music scene.
Throughout the 90s a new sound called grunge developed. Leading this new sound was Pearl Jam and Nirvana, who became especially popular with younger listeners. Lo-fi was another sound that developed. The sound, most commonly associated with Beck, prioritises eschewing popular tastes and using simplistic recording techniques.
However, with the ever-increasing popularity of indie rock bands and the increased exposure that the internet provided, the new millennium saw bands such as Death Cab For Cutie and Modest Mouse signing for major labels. Nevertheless, other bands like Bright Eyes were able to acquire commercial and critical success while remaining signed to independent record labels.
Today indie music is popular in many parts of the world, with independent music scenes in every major city. Some indie music scenes have helped cultivate talent - in Manchester during the late 80s the Madchester scene saw bands such as James, Happy Mondays and The Stone Roses rise to prominence. Whether or not indie bands choose to sign with major or independent labels, many agree that it is essential these bands remain in control of the music they make.
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