What Is Indie Rock? We Asked 33 Artists, Labels, and Critics

Key Points:

• The definition of indie rock is highly contested, with no consensus among 33 influential artists and industry figures; some see it as music released on independent labels, while others view it as a broader ethos or sound.
• Historically, indie rock referred to rock music released independently of major labels, often characterized by lo-fi production, DIY ethics, and regional scenes, but over time it has evolved into a more nebulous term encompassing diverse styles and commercial statuses.
• Many contributors emphasize the spirit of independence, experimentation, and community over strict musical characteristics, noting that indie rock can include bands on major labels or those with polished production if they maintain an independent attitude.
• The term's meaning has shifted generationally and geographically, with distinctions between American and UK interpretations, and its use as a marketing category or demographic signifier has diluted its clarity.
• Despite disagreements, indie rock is often associated with guitar-driven music, a rejection of mainstream commercialism, and a sense of authenticity and grassroots connection, though its boundaries remain fluid and subjective.