Home · Entertainment · Sep 23 archive
Jorja Smith Wins Independent Music Prize for 'The Way I Love You
Developing
In Short: At the Independent Music Awards held at London's Roundhouse, British R&B singer Jorja Smith received recognition for her track 'The Way I Love You'.
At the Independent Music Awards held at London's Roundhouse, British R&B singer Jorja Smith received recognition for her track 'The Way I Love You'.
Smith expressed her gratitude and highlighted the achievements of other independent artists, emphasizing the importance of their collective success.
Gee Davy, CEO of the Association of Independent Music, noted that this year's winners showcased 'extraordinary success' through 'collective strength' and 'spirit of collaboration'.
Smith was visibly excited as she accepted her award, encouraging the audience to applaud the other nominees and winners.
Motown-inspired musician Jalen Ngonda won the prize for best breakthrough act, while Glasgow-born country singer Riley shared her journey of pursuing music independently.
Music journalist Nicolas-Tyrell Scott told BBC Newsbeat that these awards demonstrate emerging talent can achieve significant success without major label support.
Swedish singer-songwriter Robyn's album 'Sexistential' was named best independent album, and Pauline Black received the outstanding contribution to music award.
What this adds
The Independent Music Awards highlighted the success of independent artists and their ability to create cultural and commercial value without major label backing.
What's still developing
- Gee Davy, CEO of the Association of Independent Music which organised the event, said this year's winners demonstrated "extraordinary success" through "collective strength". She credited a "spirit of collaboration" as "a key reason why our members continue to create cultural and commercial value far beyond their scale".
- "Everyone should be so proud," the Walsall singer said, especially those "doing everything independently".
- "I can't believe I've been able to just have this space to create, the same way I've been doing since I was like, 11." Sexistential, the latest record from Swedish singer-songwriter Robyn, was named best independent album at the ceremony, which also honoured 2-Tone heavyweight Pauline Black with the outstanding contribution to music award.
- Glasgow-born country singer Riley initially decided to pursue music independently and found her signed peers had teams who supported branding as well as music.