The Top 10 Indie Artists You Need to Know
If you're a fan of indie music, then this article is for you. We've compiled a list of the top 10 indie artists that you need to know. From up-and-coming acts to already-established names, these artists are making waves in the indie scene and are sure to delight your ears. So without further ado, let's get started.
1. Big Thief
Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Big Thief is an indie rock quartet that has been steadily making a name for themselves. Their music is a blend of indie, folk, and rock with emotional and honest lyrics that are incredibly relatable. Their debut album, Masterpiece, was released in 2016 and received critical acclaim from various music outlets. Since then, they have released multiple albums, all of which have been met with positive reviews. If you're looking for a band that is both raw and vulnerable, then Big Thief is the one for you.
2. Soccer Mommy
Soccer Mommy is the stage name of singer-songwriter Sophie Allison. With her unique voice and introspective lyrics, Allison has quickly become a rising star in the indie scene. Her debut studio album, Clean, was released in 2018 and received praise from critics and fans alike. Her music is a blend of indie rock and bedroom pop, and her talent for storytelling through song is undeniable. If you're looking for an artist who is unapologetically themselves, then Soccer Mommy is the one for you.
3. Snail Mail
Snail Mail is the solo project of musician Lindsey Jordan. Hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, Jordan has been making music since she was a teenager. Her music is a blend of indie rock, punk, and emo with lyrics that deal with themes of growing up and self-discovery. Her debut album, Lush, was released in 2018 and was met with critical acclaim. If you're looking for an artist who is unafraid to tackle tough subjects, then Snail Mail is the one for you.
4. Japanese Breakfast
Japanese Breakfast is the solo project of musician Michelle Zauner. Her music is a blend of indie pop and dream pop with lyrics that deal with themes of grief, love, and identity. Her debut album, Psychopomp, was released in 2016 and received widespread critical acclaim. Since then, she has released multiple albums, all of which have been met with positive reviews. If you're looking for an artist who is unapologetically themselves and unafraid to experiment with their sound, then Japanese Breakfast is the one for you.
5. Julien Baker
Julien Baker is a singer-songwriter from Memphis, Tennessee. Her music is a blend of indie folk and emo with lyrics that deal with themes of mental health, addiction, and faith. Her debut album, Sprained Ankle, was released in 2015 and was met with critical acclaim. Since then, she has released multiple albums, all of which have been praised for their emotional honesty. If you're looking for an artist who is unafraid to tackle tough subjects and wear their heart on their sleeve, then Julien Baker is the one for you.
6. Phoebe Bridgers
Phoebe Bridgers is a singer-songwriter from Los Angeles, California. Her music is a blend of indie folk and indie rock with lyrics that deal with themes of heartbreak, loss, and self-discovery. Her debut album, Stranger in the Alps, was released in 2017 and was met with critical acclaim. She has since collaborated with other artists and released multiple albums, all of which have been praised for their emotional depth. If you're looking for an artist who is unafraid to explore their emotions through their music, then Phoebe Bridgers is the one for you.
7. Waxahatchee
Waxahatchee is the stage name of singer-songwriter Katie Crutchfield. Hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, Crutchfield's music is a blend of indie rock and folk with lyrics that deal with themes of heartbreak, identity, and self-discovery. Her debut album, American Weekend, was released in 2012 and was met with critical acclaim. Since then, she has released multiple albums, all of which have been praised for their emotional honesty. If you're looking for an artist who is unafraid to share their vulnerabilities through their music, then Waxahatchee is the one for you.
8. Hurray for the Riff Raff
Hurray for the Riff Raff is a band led by singer-songwriter Alynda Segarra. Their music is a blend of indie folk, country, and blues with lyrics that deal with themes of identity, resistance, and social justice. Their music is both powerful and poetic, and their live performances are known for their energy and passion. If you're looking for an artist who is unafraid to use their music to make a difference, then Hurray for the Riff Raff is the one for you.
9. Angel Olsen
Angel Olsen is a singer-songwriter from St. Louis, Missouri. Her music is a blend of indie folk and indie rock with lyrics that deal with themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Her debut album, Half Way Home, was released in 2012 and was met with critical acclaim. Since then, she has released multiple albums, all of which have been praised for their emotional depth. If you're looking for an artist who is unafraid to explore the complexities of human emotion through their music, then Angel Olsen is the one for you.
10. Lucy Dacus
Lucy Dacus is a singer-songwriter from Richmond, Virginia. Her music is a blend of indie rock and indie folk with lyrics that deal with themes of love, heartbreak, and identity. Her debut album, No Burden, was released in 2016 and was met with critical acclaim. Since then, she has released multiple albums, all of which have been praised for their emotional honesty. If you're looking for an artist who is unafraid to share their vulnerabilities through their music, then Lucy Dacus is the one for you.
That concludes our list of the top 10 indie artists you need to know. These artists are making waves in the indie scene and are sure to delight your ears. Whether you're looking for vulnerability, introspection, or social justice, these artists have you covered. So sit back, relax, and let the music take you away.