Key facts
- Jorja Smith won an Independent Music Award for her 2025 track 'The Way I Love You'.
- The awards ceremony took place on Tuesday night at London's Roundhouse.
- Robyn's album 'Sexistential' was named best independent album.
- Pauline Black was honored with the outstanding contribution to music award.
- Jalen Ngonda received the award for best breakthrough act.
- Jim Legxacy won best EP for 'black British music'.
British R&B singer Jorja Smith was among the artists recognized at this year's Independent Music Awards, taking home the prize for her track 'The Way I Love You'. The ceremony, held Tuesday night at London's Roundhouse, celebrates unsigned artists and small record labels.
Accepting her award, Smith expressed gratitude for her music journey and encouraged fellow artists, particularly those working independently. "Everyone should be so proud," she said, highlighting the achievements of those "doing everything independently."
Other notable winners included Swedish singer-songwriter Robyn, whose latest record 'Sexistential' was named best independent album. 2-Tone artist Pauline Black received the outstanding contribution to music award, while musician Jalen Ngonda was honored as best breakthrough act. Jim Legxacy secured the award for best EP for his work 'black British music'.
Music journalist Nicolas-Tyrell Scott commented that these awards demonstrate how emerging talent can achieve significant success without major label backing. He noted that artists like Jim Legxacy are gaining attention internationally.
While pursuing music independently can present challenges, such as a lack of dedicated branding teams compared to signed artists, the rewards can be substantial. Glasgow-born singer Riley, who chose an independent path, stated that it is "much more rewarding when it pays off," and that the stigma around independent music has shifted, with some artists now preferring autonomy over label control.
Gee Davy, CEO of the Association of Independent Music, praised this year's winners for their "extraordinary success" achieved through "collective strength" and a "spirit of collaboration."