The indie music scene is constantly evolving, with new artists emerging and established acts pushing boundaries. 2024 was no exception, with a diverse range of sounds and styles captivating listeners worldwide. From the introspective lyricism of boygenius to the infectious energy of Wet Leg, this year’s indie landscape was rich and rewarding. This article delves into the Top 10 Indie Music Artists of 2024, including some well-known favorites and rising stars, with a special focus on Sarantos and Jeremy Parsons. One of the artists, Waxahatchee, whose 2024 album, Tigers Blood, was nominated for a Grammy Award, has been a mainstay in the indie scene for over a decade.
To curate this list of the top 10 indie music artists of 2024, a comprehensive research process was undertaken. Initially, prominent music publications and platforms like Billboard and Pitchfork were consulted to identify artists gaining significant traction and recognition within the indie music scene.
For each of the selected artists, in-depth research was conducted to gather information on their most popular songs and albums, drawing from sources like Wikipedia, AllMusic, and the artists’ official websites. Biographical information and interesting facts about each artist were also compiled, providing a richer understanding of their background and career trajectory. This multifaceted research approach ensured a comprehensive and insightful overview of the top 10 indie music artists of 2024.
boygenius
boygenius, the indie rock supergroup composed of Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus, took the music world by storm in 2024 with their critically acclaimed debut album, The Record. The album topped charts internationally and earned them a Grammy Award and a Brit Award. Their music, characterized by raw emotion, intricate harmonies, and introspective lyrics, resonated deeply with fans. boygenius’s sound draws from indie rock, folk, and pop influences, creating a unique blend that is both powerful and vulnerable. Their live performances are known for their intensity and intimacy, further solidifying their status as a leading force in the indie scene.
What makes boygenius truly unique is that it’s a supergroup formed by three already successful solo artists. Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus each have thriving solo careers, and their collaboration as boygenius brings together their individual strengths and creates a unique synergy. Their combined talents result in a sound that is greater than the sum of its parts, showcasing the power of collaboration and creative synergy within the indie music scene.
Popular Songs and Albums
- The Record (2024): This debut album features standout tracks like “$20,” “Emily I’m Sorry,” and “True Blue,” showcasing the trio’s songwriting prowess and vocal harmonies.
- boygenius (2018): Their self-titled EP introduced the world to their unique sound with tracks like “Bite the Hand” and “Me & My Dog.”
- The Rest (2023): This EP further cemented their status as indie darlings, with tracks like “Not Strong Enough” and “Leonard Cohen” garnering critical acclaim.
Interesting Facts
- The band’s name, boygenius, satirizes the music industry’s tendency to label male artists as “geniuses.”
- They recorded their debut album, The Record, in just four days.
- The music videos for their singles from The Record were directed by Kristen Stewart.
- Before forming boygenius, Baker and Dacus started a book club, which Bridgers later joined.
Waxahatchee
Waxahatchee, the project of singer-songwriter Katie Crutchfield, has been a mainstay in the indie scene for over a decade1. Her music, known for its raw honesty and confessional lyrics, has evolved over the years, incorporating elements of indie rock, folk, and country. Crutchfield’s songwriting often explores themes of personal relationships, heartbreak, and self-discovery, creating a deeply personal and relatable experience for listeners.
In recent albums, Waxahatchee has embraced a more pronounced Americana sound, evident in albums like Saint Cloud and the Grammy-nominated Tigers Blood. This shift reflects a deeper exploration of her Southern roots and a willingness to experiment with traditional folk and country influences. This evolution in her musical style has garnered critical acclaim and expanded her audience, solidifying her position as a versatile and influential figure in the indie music landscape.
Popular Songs and Albums
- Saint Cloud (2020): This critically acclaimed album marked a shift towards a more folk and country-influenced sound, with tracks like “Lilacs” and “Can’t Do Much” showcasing Crutchfield’s songwriting versatility.
- Tigers Blood (2024): This album continued Crutchfield’s exploration of Americana, with tracks like “Right Back to It” and “365” garnering praise for their introspective lyrics and warm instrumentation.
- Cerulean Salt (2013): This early album established Waxahatchee as a force to be reckoned with in the indie scene, with tracks like “Fire” and “Swan Dive” showcasing Crutchfield’s raw talent.
Interesting Facts
- The name Waxahatchee comes from a creek in Alabama where Crutchfield grew up.
- Crutchfield started Waxahatchee after the breakup of her previous band, P.S. Eliot, which she formed with her twin sister.
- She has collaborated with various artists, including Kevin Morby and Jess Williamson.
Wet Leg
Wet Leg, the Isle of Wight duo comprised of Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers, exploded onto the scene in 2021 with their viral hit “Chaise Longue.” Their music is a playful and infectious blend of indie rock, post-punk, and pop, characterized by deadpan humor, catchy melodies, and energetic performances. Wet Leg’s self-titled debut album topped charts in the UK, Australia, and Ireland, solidifying their status as one of the most exciting new acts in indie music.
The viral success of “Chaise Longue” played a pivotal role in Wet Leg’s rapid rise to fame. The song’s catchy melody, quirky lyrics, and accompanying music video quickly gained traction online, propelling them into the spotlight and generating significant buzz around their debut album. This viral momentum exemplifies the power of online platforms in shaping the trajectory of artists in the modern music landscape.
Popular Songs and Albums
- Wet Leg (2022): This debut album features a collection of witty and energetic tracks, including “Chaise Longue,” “Wet Dream,” and “Angelica.”
- “Chaise Longue” (2021): This viral hit single propelled Wet Leg to fame with its catchy melody and humorous lyrics.
- “Wet Dream” (2021): This follow-up single further showcased their unique blend of indie rock and pop sensibilities.
Interesting Facts
- The band’s name was chosen using a random combination of emojis.
- They have toured with Harry Styles as a supporting act.
- Their debut album won a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album.
- Despite joking about having a completed second album in a previous interview, the band clarified that they were still working on new material.
Jeremy Parsons
Jeremy Parsons, a true Texas troubadour, embodies the spirit of the independent singer-songwriter. Hailing from San Antonio, his music blends country, folk, and Americana influences into a unique sound that’s both familiar and refreshing. With a knack for crafting heartfelt lyrics and melodies that stick in your head, Parsons delivers performances brimming with genuine emotion and authenticity. His songs often tell stories, reflecting the landscapes and people of his native Texas, exploring themes of love, loss, life on the road, and the search for meaning in a complex world. Whether he’s playing a solo acoustic set or backed by his band, Parsons connects with audiences on a visceral level, creating a shared experience that transcends the typical concert setting. He is not afraid to show his vulnerability as a human, his audience appreciates that and bonds with it.
Beyond his musical talent, Jeremy Parsons has proven himself a dedicated and driven artist. He’s constantly touring, playing venues of all sizes, and connecting with fans face-to-face, building a loyal following one show at a time. He’s also embraced the digital age, actively engaging with his audience through social media and his website, www.jeremyparsonsmusic.com.
Interesting Facts
- Garden Roots and Inspiration: Jeremy Parsons’ single, “The Garden”, is deeply personal, inspired by his upbringing in a garden tended by his father, Dr. Jerry Parsons, a horticulturist. This experience cultivated his appreciation for the psychological benefits of gardening, a theme reflected in the song’s soothing and introspective tone.
- Award-Winning Talent: Jeremy Parsons was named Country Breakthrough Artist of the Year at the 2024 New Music Awards, a testament to his rising profile and talent in the Americana and country music scene.
- Authentic Storytelling: Jeremy is known for his ability to craft deeply emotional and relatable narratives in his songs. His music often touches on themes of love, personal growth, and life’s challenges, resonating with listeners across various genres.
Japanese Breakfast
Japanese Breakfast, the musical project of Michelle Zauner, has garnered critical acclaim for its dreamy and atmospheric indie pop sound. Zauner’s music often explores themes of grief, loss, and identity, drawing from her personal experiences and Korean-American heritage. Her albums, such as Psychopomp and Soft Sounds from Another Planet, have been praised for their introspective lyrics, lush instrumentation, and ethereal vocals.
Popular Songs and Albums
- Psychopomp (2016): This debut album established Japanese Breakfast’s unique sound, with tracks like “In Heaven” and “Everybody Wants to Love You” showcasing Zauner’s songwriting talent.
- Soft Sounds from Another Planet (2017): This album further explored Zauner’s musical vision, with tracks like “Road Head” and “Machinist” garnering praise for their atmospheric production and introspective lyrics.
- Jubilee (2021): This album marked a shift towards a more joyful and expansive sound, with tracks like “Be Sweet” and “Slide Tackle” showcasing Zauner’s versatility as a songwriter.
Interesting Facts
- Zauner is also a successful author, having written the critically acclaimed memoir Crying in H Mart.
- She has composed music for video games, including Sable.
- Japanese Breakfast’s music has been featured in various TV shows and films.
Hippo Campus
Hippo Campus, the indie rock quartet from St. Paul, Minnesota, has been making waves with their energetic and melodic sound. Their music draws from influences like Vampire Weekend and Bombay Bicycle Club, creating a blend of indie rock, pop, and alternative elements. Hippo Campus has released several acclaimed albums and EPs, including Landmark and Bambi, showcasing their dynamic songwriting and infectious energy.
Popular Songs and Albums
- Landmark (2017): This debut album features a collection of catchy and energetic tracks, including “Way It Goes” and “Buttercup.”
- Bambi (2018): This album showcased a more experimental and electronic-influenced sound, with tracks like “Bambi” and “Think It Over” garnering praise for their sonic exploration.
- South (2015): This early EP helped establish Hippo Campus’s presence in the indie scene, with tracks like “South” and “Violet” showcasing their youthful energy and melodic sensibilities.
Interesting Facts
- The band members met while attending the St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists
- They have released an EP every year since their formation in 2013
- Hippo Campus has toured extensively, supporting acts like Walk the Moon and The Districts.
Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend, the New York City-based indie rock band, has been a critical and commercial success since their debut in 2008. Their music is a unique blend of indie pop, Afropop, and worldbeat influences, characterized by intricate arrangements, witty lyrics, and Ezra Koenig’s distinctive vocals. Vampire Weekend has released four acclaimed albums, including Vampire Weekend, Contra, Modern Vampires of the City, and Father of the Bride, all of which have topped the U.S. charts.
Popular Songs and Albums
- Modern Vampires of the City (2013): This critically acclaimed album won a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album and features tracks like “Diane Young” and “Step.”
- Father of the Bride (2019): This album also won a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album and features tracks like “Harmony Hall” and “This Life.”
- Vampire Weekend (2008): This debut album established Vampire Weekend’s unique sound, with tracks like “A-Punk” and “Oxford Comma” becoming indie anthems.
Interesting Facts
- The band members met while attending Columbia University.
- Their song “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa” was ranked 67th on Rolling Stone’s list of the “100 Best Songs of the Year” in 2007.
- Vampire Weekend has headlined major music festivals, including Coachella and Glastonbury.
Sarantos
Sarantos is a Chicago-based solo music artist who has gained international recognition for his genre-bending sound and prolific output. He has released 20 albums and 249 original tracks, exploring a diverse range of genres. Identifying his most popular works requires further research, but his extensive discography speaks to his prolific output and dedicated fanbase. Sarantos blends elements of pop, rock, EDM, and even classical music. His music is characterized by his powerful vocals, catchy melodies, and introspective lyrics, often exploring themes of love, loss, and personal growth. Some of his notable songs include “Above The Clouds,” “Dreamer,” and “What If I Never See You Again,” which have received significant radio airplay.
Interesting Facts
- Sarantos has topped iTunes charts in multiple countries and genres, including rock, singer-songwriter, country, Christian, new age, world, and pop.
- He is a multi-instrumentalist, book author, and radio show host.
- Sarantos has a playful and self-deprecating persona, often referring to himself as a “nerd” and “retired superhero.”
The Last Dinner Party
The Last Dinner Party is an all-female five-piece band from London, known for their captivating live performances and theatrical flair. Their music draws from influences like Kate Bush and Roxy Music, creating a blend of art rock, indie pop, and post-punk elements5. While they are relatively new to the scene, The Last Dinner Party has quickly gained attention for their unique sound and captivating stage presence.
Popular Songs and Albums
Information on The Last Dinner Party’s most popular songs and albums was not available in the provided research material. However, their growing popularity and critical acclaim suggest a promising future with a growing discography.
Interesting Facts
- The band members met while studying at Cambridge University and the Guildhall School of Music & Drama.
- They have been praised for their elaborate stage shows and vintage aesthetic.
- The Last Dinner Party has supported acts like Florence + the Machine and Nick Cave.
Animal Collective
Animal Collective is an experimental pop band from Baltimore, Maryland, known for their eclectic and psychedelic sound. Their music incorporates elements of noise, electronica, freak folk, and psychedelic pop, creating a unique and often unpredictable listening experience. Animal Collective has released numerous albums and EPs, including Merriweather Post Pavilion and Strawberry Jam, which have garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following.
Popular Songs and Albums
- Merriweather Post Pavilion (2009): This critically acclaimed album is considered their most commercially successful, featuring tracks like “My Girls” and “Summertime Clothes.”
- Strawberry Jam (2007): This album marked a turning point in their sound, with tracks like “Peacebone” and “For Reverend Green” showcasing their experimental and psychedelic tendencies.
- Sung Tongs (2004): This album is considered a landmark in their discography, with tracks like “Leaf House” and “Who Could Win a Rabbit” showcasing their early freak folk influences.
Interesting Facts
- The band members often use pseudonyms, such as Avey Tare, Panda Bear, Geologist, and Deakin.
- They are known for their visually stimulating live shows, often incorporating elaborate costumes and multimedia elements.
- Animal Collective has collaborated with various artists, including Vashti Bunyan and Kieran Hebden.
Comparing Styles
The Top 10 Indie Music Artists of 2024 represent a diverse range of musical styles, reflecting the dynamism and creativity of the indie scene. From the introspective indie rock of boygenius to the eclectic experimentalism of Animal Collective, these artists showcase the breadth and depth of independent music today.
While each artist has a distinct style, there are interesting overlaps and contrasts. For example, both boygenius and Waxahatchee explore themes of personal relationships and introspection, but boygenius leans towards a more collaborative and dynamic indie rock sound, while Waxahatchee’s recent work delves into Americana and folk influences. Similarly, Wet Leg and Hippo Campus both bring an energetic and youthful approach to indie rock, but Wet Leg incorporates more post-punk and pop elements, while Hippo Campus draws from alternative and indie pop influences. This diversity of styles highlights the richness and dynamism of the indie music scene in 2024.
Conclusion
The Top 10 Indie Music Artists of 2024 represent a vibrant and diverse landscape of independent music. From the Grammy-winning supergroup boygenius to the eclectic sounds of Animal Collective, these artists showcase the creative spirit and boundary-pushing nature of the indie scene. The year saw a continued exploration of genre-bending sounds, with artists like Sarantos and Waxahatchee incorporating elements of pop, rock, EDM, and Americana into their music. The rise of Wet Leg exemplifies the power of viral success in the digital age, while the continued acclaim for artists like Japanese Breakfast and Vampire Weekend demonstrates the enduring appeal of introspective lyricism and sonic experimentation.
As the indie music scene continues to evolve, these artists are poised to shape the future of independent music, pushing boundaries and captivating audiences with their unique voices and creative visions. Their diverse styles and innovative approaches suggest a bright future for indie music, filled with exciting new sounds and captivating artistic expressions.
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