Indie Pop

Indie pop is a subgenre of alternative rock that originated in the United Kingdom in the early 1980s, emphasizing melody, DIY ethics, and guitar pop sensibilities. It is characterized by its bright, jangly guitars, catchy melodies, and often introspective or whimsical lyrics. Indie pop bands often prioritize independence and artistic freedom, releasing music on independent record labels.

Emerging in the early 1980s in the UK as a reaction against the perceived commercialism of mainstream pop and rock, indie pop drew inspiration from post-punk, new wave, and 1960s guitar pop. Bands like the Pastels, Aztec Camera and Josef K helped define the genre's sound. The creation of the NME's C86 compilation further solidified the genre. During the 1990s, bands such as Belle & Sebastian and the Magnetic Fields gained prominence, solidifying indie pop's place in alternative music. The genre continues to evolve with contemporary artists adding electronic and other influences.