What does the word independent mean to you, PM? Why would a band actively discourage a deal with a major label and choose, or create, an indie one?

You cannot see it as a genre because you cannot see the thought behind the action; the meaning behind a series of letters.

The reason most bands are Indie is because they can't get signed. In case you hadn't noticed, many, many bands jump at the chance to sign to a major label.

You're missing out on a huge part of music. Where the artists you listen to are your friends. I'll keep my 5 dollar shows and 3 dollar 7"s.

LOL

Way to answer the question, dood.

...

There are heaps of examples of artists deciding that they don't want to sign with a major label and starting their own record label or signing with an independent record label.

Take Laura Burhenn from Georgie James for an example. She couldn't wait for any labels to review her work and edit stuff etc. so she decided to start her own label, which released her solo album as well as an EP from Georgie James.

A major reason why artists go for independent labels is so that they can have greater creative freedom. I mean. Would Sleepytime Gorilla Museum ever be signed to Sony BMG? Unlikely. Too weird... :P

Because the style they play isn't mainstream, believe me they would love to be members of Maroon 5. Or some other band like that.

You're either trolling or just an idiot.

he's trolling

but really you should expect to come under fire if you're pro mainstream in the INDEPENDENT music forum.