We discovered an amazing French initiative that shines a well-deserved light on indie artists: Indies First. Here’s what you can do to be a part of this awesome movement!
You know that we, Sound Eaters, are indie kids at heart. That’s why we are very enthusiastic about this news: Indies First is back for a whole month, and trust us, you don’t wanna miss it.
What’s Indies First?
As you may know, the music industry is dominated by big names and algorithm-fed playlists. Mainstream media and radio tend to favor safe, familiar names, and this leaves very little room for emerging, independent artists. This has to stop, and that’s where Indies First comes in.
This French movement was created by the FELIN (the French Federation of independent labels and distributors). Its mission? Put indie artists forward, say « Adieu » to mainstream music, and invite people to discover new songs.
Every October, the FELIN curates a fab selection of 30 records in various genres. Many record shops participate in this event by highlighting these releases in their stores and promoting local artists featured in the selection.
And yeah, we know what you’re thinking: this absolutely deserves cake!
We imagined a marvelous lemon chiffon cake filled with an addictive Swiss meringue buttercream. A pure lemony miracle that your taste buds will never forget. Just like Indies First! We brought this beauty to the FELIN team and spent an amazing time with these hard-working gals, chatting about our latest music discoveries while happily stuffing our mouths with cake.
Our top pick from Indies First Selection: Shannon Wright
We chose to shed some light on Shannon Wright’s latest record, Reservoir of Love, a gorgeous album packed with heart, grit, and goosebump moments. And look a that beautiful cover! Many thanks to Vicious Circle Records, who graciously gave us a copy.
How YOU can be part of the game
Love indie music? Wanna help your favourite labels and artists get more shine? You can totally make a difference:
- Support your local indie record shop(s): go pay a visit to your favorite record shop, buy physical copies of the “Indies First” selection. Ask the staff what’s new and what’s featured. Remember: your dollars will keep this movement alive.
- Listen & share new music: discover the “Indies First” releases! Stream them, buy them, add them to your playlists. And when you find something great, share it on social media and tag the label/artist. Show them some luuuv!
- Spread the word: post about your new indie discoveries, use hashtags, and tell your friends so others can follow along and discover this super cool initiative, too.
Whatever you do, don’t just stick to what you already know. You might find something totally unexpected and amazing by discovering the Indie side of the Force.
Let’s do this, people!
