Top 10 Indie Bands You Should Be Listening To

 “Indie music? What the heck is that?”

How often have my friends asked me that question when I share a song? Indie music has never been popular in the mainstream, and that might be the point. After all, "Indie" is everything underground, far from the commercial studios and their massive plastic influence. In the past, Indie or Independent musicians were confined in their basements or bedrooms. Now…! they are still there, but we can hear their amazing music anyway, thanks to the Internet. 

And wow, what music! These artists are passionate, creative, and fearless. They don't shy away from taking risks and redefining boundaries. The only downside? They’re hard to find, so I’m bringing you a list of indie musicians worth listening to. I want them to be known so that more people can tell them about the fantastic music they produce. 

In the last few years, indie music has gained more attention. People are starting to wonder what it is and where they can find more. Whether you're a newbie to indie or a music expert, take a moment to check out this list of artists you can’t miss.

What Defines a Good Indie Artist?

Indie is about innovation and experimentation. There’s no one "right" sound, nor are there strict rules to follow. The only requirement is that artists are free to create whatever resonates with them, and we, as listeners, feel that authenticity.

This list is based on innovation and a variety of sounds. These are artists who influence musical trends, but, of course, my personal feelings and tastes play a role here, too. After all, indie music—and perhaps all music—is about the emotions and thoughts it stirs in you.

Top 10 Indie Artists of 2024

So, Here are 10 artists you absolutely need to have on your playlist!

Number 10
Dayglow
Genre: Indie Pop, Synth-Pop

To open the list, we have Dayglow, a band that blends dreamy synths, upbeat melodies, and a healthy dose of feel-good vibes. It’s the kind of music you put on a long, long ride and just let the time go, feeling plenty of joy. Because that is the only way to describe Sloan Struble’s songs. His vocalist and songwriter paint of color each one of his creations with sincere delight.

Songs like Can I Call You Tonight? perfect describes his dreamy and groovy rhythm. You should also hear False Direction, Close To You, and Something.

Spotify: Dayglow | Spotify

Number 9
Khai Dreams
Genre: Indie Pop, Lo-Fi, Bedroom Pop

This is the most chill, happy, sweet, and mellow group on all the list. Each one of their songs will make you melt down. It makes you feel like young love in the best movie ever. His sound is a mix of lo-fi and bedroom pop with relaxing beats. If I could define it in just one word, it would be warm. 

Some songs that highlight nostalgia are  Thought and Thought, Sandals, and Ultimately. But if you really want to boost your mood and feel just plenty of happiness, go for Sunkissed.

Spotify: khai dreams | Spotify

Number 8
I Don't Know How But They Found Me (IDKHBTFM)
Genre: Indie Pop, New Wave, Alternative Rock

Quirky, fun, sarcastic, and a little theatrical, IDKHBTFM is unlike anything else on the scene. Their blend of indie pop and new wave with retro influences makes them stand out. They combine indie pop with retro influences and a taste of the 80s. Led by Dallon Weekes, their music is filled with clever lyrics and a playful sense of irony

Some songs I love are What I Love?, SPORT DVL, and  Do it all the time. These guys are worth checking out.

Spotify: I DONT KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME | Spotify

Number 7
Tipling Rock

Genre: Indie Rock, Surf Rock

It can sound weird, but Tipling Rock brings the beach straight to your ears with their surf rock-infused indie sound. Their music has this laid-back, breezy vibe that’s perfect for chilling out or imagining you’re far, far away. It always makes me smile when I listen to them. Their sound is refreshing, and their lyrics are almost corny. The only reason this is low on the list is because they don’t have many songs.

My favorite song that I will dedicate to my husband thousands of times is Staring. You should also listen to Low Tide Love and A Side/ B Side.

Spotify: Tipling Rock | Spotify

Number 6
COIN

Genre: Indie Pop, Synth-Pop

Coin makes the kind of indie pop that gets stuck in your head in the best way possible. Their songs are fun, energetic, and perfect to sing along! Talk Too Much is a hit that you will love at the first listen. With bouncy beats and catchy hooks, COIN knows how to bring good vibes.

My personal favorites are Chapstick, Simple Romance, and Cemetary. Each of them is so catchy that you will find yourself with the lyrics in your head even after days of listening to them!

Spotify: COIN | Spotify

Number 5
The Neighbourhood
Genre: Indie Rock, Alternative R&B

The Neighbourhood is the definition of moody cool. With their atmospheric blend of indie rock and R&B, they create this hazy, mysterious vibe that pulls you in. It was the first indie group that I discovered, so I have all their songs in a special place in my heart. Songs like Softcore and Prey are phenomenal for those intense, sad nights. However, my favorite song of all time is Cry Baby, whose simple lyrics have defined my sense of love since I was a teenager.

You can also enjoy their track "Sweater Weather," which became a massive hit, and for good reason—it’s the perfect soundtrack for rainy days or late-night drives. Expect smooth vocals, moody beats, and lyrics that hit deep.

Spotify: The Neighbourhood | Spotify

Number 4
Tame Impala
Genre: Psychedelic Rock, Indie Pop

Oh, how I love this group. Tame Impala is a surreal, psychedelic, indie rock wonderland.  Kevin Parker, the genius behind the project, creates dreamy, immersive soundscapes that transport you to another dimension. His music is full of swirling synths and trippy vibes that blend perfectly with introspective lyrics.

If you want to feel you are lost in space and heavy like the ocean at the same time without drugs, just close your eyes and play his album Current. Don’t you dare skip The less I know, the better, and New person, same old mistakes.

Spotify: Tame Impala | Spotify
Number 3
The Score
Genre: Indie Rock, Alternative Rock

Their music has this electric energy that makes you feel unstoppable. I personally use their songs when I want to be inspired and exercise like a legend. Their powerful, uplifting sound has no comparison with any other group.

What album should you listen to? ATLAS, a thousand times ATLAS. Go there and try Revolution and Never going back, so you know what I’m talking about.

Spotify: The Score | Spotify

Number 2

Saint motel

Genre: Indie Pop, Indie Rock

Yes! That is right! Saint Motel combines indie rock with retro vibes and modern sounds, and they will trap you in every one of their songs. They just feel like bursts of energy that will make you roll down the car windows and sing along.

I absolutely recommend the album The Original Motion, which includes masterpieces like A Good Song Never Dies, Bullet, and Van Horn.

Spotify: Saint Motel | Spotify 

Honorable Mentions

Before finishing, I need to recommend these big fellows. Each one of them is starting his journey and has very few songs, but it is totally worth listening to. I leave you with my personal recommendations to meet them:

1. Alec Benjamin
   Genre: Indie Pop, Singer-Songwriter
   Song: Let me down slowly
   Soft, emotional, sincere, a heartbreaking whisper. 
   Spotify: Alec Benjamin | Spotify
   
   

2. Alfie Jukes
   Genre: Indie Pop, Alternative Pop
   Song: Cigarette
   A voice that makes you chilled-out, raw, honest, a slightly darker introspection.
   Spotify: Alfie Jukes | Spotify
   
   

3. Connor Kauffman
   Genre: Indie Folk, Indie Pop
   Song: Bleed
   Strong, heartbreaking, a punch in the wall that ends with a sight.
   Spotify: Connor Kauffman | Spotify
   
   

Final winner

And finally!

Half Alive
Genre: Indie Pop, Alternative Rock

Half Alive is one of my personal favorites, but it is also an incredible band that takes you on a journey with every song. Their sound blends indie rock, pop, and electronic elements that just hit the right spot in your head.

I can't stop recommending songs like Fall that always get me emotional. Summerland reminds me of times I didn't even have, and Creature is simply spiritual in a way I didn’t know rock could be. 

If you're into indie music that’s fun yet meaningful, Half Alive is your go-to band.

Spotify: half•alive | Spotify 

Final thoughts

Indie music is all about discovery, so I probably left behind many great groups that deserved to be on the list. Don’t feel frustrated if I didn’t mention THE group that deserves all the recognition in the world. Instead, check the comment section and share your own favorites. We might take those names to give them a solo post that allows more people to know them. 

Also, let me know what was your favorite number from the top. Each one of these artists is worth listening to and can be a good introduction for your friend who doesn’t know what indie music is.