Indie music developed in North America and the UK during the 1980s out of alternative rock, although elements of indie rock can be found as early in the 60s in the music of bands such as The Kinks. What exactly constitutes indie rock is contested by musicians and critics, with some claiming that indie rock bands should be signed to independent record labels while others claim that the artistic aesthetic and sound is more important.
An important aspect of being an indie act was remaining in total creative control of records produced, and this was demonstrated by the bands that had success in the early days of the indie rock movement. In the 1980s bands such as The Pixies and REM achieved considerable success in America and abroad while The Smiths, who released their self-titled debut album in 1984, were considered the quintessential indie rock band in the UK.
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.
As indie music became more popular and the internet offered the opportunity for more people than ever before to access this music, the 2000s saw more indie bands being courted by major record labels. Modest Mouse and Death Cab For Cutie were just two bands that moved to major labels after the new millennium. However, some bands – Bright Eyes for example – stuck to independent labels and still achieved commercial as well as critical success.
Many cities have developed their own independent music scene. Some of these, such as Madchester which flourished in Manchester during the late 80s, helped establish a wave of new talent – Happy Mondays, James and The Stone Roses are just a few Manchester bands associated with Madchester. Although more indie bands are now signing up with major record labels, many believe that as long as they don’t relinquish control over the sound of their music they can still legitimately be called indie.
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