Independent music’s biggest night returned to London for its 15th year. Find out what happened.

The AIM Independent Music Awards 2025 returned to the Roundhouse in London for its 15th anniversary, bringing together artists and labels to celebrate the strength and diversity of the independent music sector. What began as a small ceremony a decade and a half ago has grown into one of the UK industry’s most anticipated events, not just rewarding creativity but spotlighting activism, innovation, and community.

The evening’s big winners reflected the breadth of today’s independent scene. Fontaines D.C. were crowned with Best Independent Album for Romance, further cementing their place as one of the UK and Ireland’s most important guitar bands of the past decade. Their label, XL Recordings, also triumphed as Best Independent Label. Meanwhile, Ezra Collective and Yazmin Lacey picked up Best Independent Track for “God Gave Me Feet for Dancing,”.

Industry icons were also honoured, Gilles Peterson received the Outstanding Contribution to Music, while Cosey Fanni Tutti was recognised with the Innovator Award for her decades of groundbreaking, uncompromising artistry.

Performances throughout the night turned  brought the independent artist ethos to life. Rising Isle of Wight band Coach Party, fresh off a string of successful festival appearances and tours, were among them, performing two of their latest singles ‘Disco Dream’ and ‘Girls!’. 

Also performing was Moonchild Sanelly who injected her set with colour and charisma, weaving through the audience and turning the Roundhouse into a dancefloor, while MRCY and Ayanna Witter-Johnson added depth and variety.

The night was also charged with political urgency. Many artists used their platform to highlight global issues, particularly the conflict in Palestine, with members of Fontaines D.C. and others wearing badges or carrying statements of solidarity. Protest imagery and slogans could be spotted across outfits and stage visuals, a reminder that in the independent sector, music and activism often go hand in hand.

Closing the ceremony, AIM CEO Gee Davy spoke about the power of independence: “This is a community built on creative freedom, resilience, and innovation,” she said. “Tonight proves once again that independent artists are setting the pace, pushing the boundaries, and shaping the future of music.”

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