indie abstract

The emergence of “indie” pop musicians in the past two decades has affected the style and identity of contemporary pop culture. When individuals listen and relate to the music produced by the indie artists, their identity begins to encompass the ethics found in the music. As a result, they begin to promote themselves as representations of the independent style, whether it’s through their personality, clothing, or even their general attitude. This is manifested in the recent accelerated success of thrift stores and chain stores such as Urban Outfitters, which promote the image of the “indie style”. The explosion of cardigans, thick-rimmed glasses, and v-neck cut shirts can easily be correlated with the growth of independent pop bands. The boy band idol of the 90’s with his spiked, frosted tips has slowly been replaced with a new popular identity: the skinny, awkward indie musician with his vest and … The reason for this shift of popular identity could be a sign of changing ethical values in society. As such, my paper will be a reflection on the recent attachment of the public to “independent” ideals, aesthetics, and ethics, as well as what this shift means for our changing society.