Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
The Association of Independent Music (AIM) has today revealed the nominees for the 2026 Independent Music Awards, with New York electronic group Fcukers leading this year’s field with three nominations.
Celebrating the artists, labels and releases shaping the future of independent music, the awards recognise the creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to define the UK’s world-leading independent music sector. This year’s nominees span globally renowned artists and the next generation of breakthrough talent, reinforcing the Independent Music Awards’ reputation as the industry’s definitive tastemaker awards.
Topping the nominations are Fcukers, whose acclaimed debut album Ö released on Ninja Tune has driven a remarkable breakthrough year, earning nominations for Best Independent Album (in association with Spotify), Best Independent Track (in association with Meta) and Independent Breakthrough (in association with Amazon Music). Robyn‘s celebrated return with her first album in eight years, Sexistential, sees the pioneering artist nominated in Best Independent Album and Best Independent Track, plus groundbreaking producer Arca also recognised in Best Independent Remix for her take on Sexistential’s title track.
A host of other artists receive two nominations apiece – neo-soul singer Jalen Ngonda (Daptone Records), rapper/producer Jim Legxacy (XL Recordings), R&B star Jorja Smith (FAMM), alternative rock duo Nova Twins (Marshall Records), electronic dance pop artist Romy (XL Recordings) and alternative R&B artist Tiana Major9 (+1 Records).
They are joined by nominees including indie rock breakthroughs Geese (Partisan Records), avant-garde producer Arca, English seven-piece Fat Dog, singer-songwriter Mitski (Dead Oceans), Belfast dance duo BICEP (Ninja Tune), and genre-bending funk visionary Thundercat (Brainfeeder), with independent artists thriving across the full spectrum of genres.
The nominations underline the strength of the UK’s independent label community. Young leads this year’s field with five nominations across multiple categories, followed by XLRecordings and NinjaTune with four. FAMM and Marshall Records each receive three nominations, demonstrating the continued impact of independent labels in championing some of the world’s most exciting artists.
Across six artist and release categories, this year’s shortlist spans established global stars, breakthrough talent and genre-defying innovators, reflecting the extraordinary breadth and ambition of today’s independent music scene.
The shortlisted categories announced today are:
Gee Davy, CEO, AIM said: “We’re thrilled to share the first nominees list for the 2026 Independent Music Awards, showcasing just some of the broad spectrum of success and authenticity flowing from the UK’s independent music community. The array of artists and genres on display here demonstrates once again that the independent music sector is the most exciting, authentic and groundbreaking place in the industry.
Following our 15th Anniversary edition of the Awards last year, we have a fresh new look and feel, reflecting the consistent evolution of the independent music sector. We look forward to sharing more new features at the ceremony at London’s Roundhouse as we celebrate the success that comes from the collective strength of our mighty community.”
The Best Independent Record Store category will return this year, nominated by the public, allowing fans to have their say on the importance of these cultural hubs. Entries can be submitted here.
Additionally, the Best Live Performer category will once again invite the public to vote for their favourites – with voting open here.
The winners of the 2026 Independent Music Awards will be announced at The Roundhouse in London on 22 September, bringing together artists, labels and music industry leaders to celebrate another outstanding year for the UK’s world-leading independent music community.
AIM would like to thank its Annual Platinum Partners Amazon Music, Merlin and Meta for their continued support for the independent music community and the Independent Music Awards.
