Local Artists on Vinyl: Supporting Independent Music Through Record Purchases

A Renaissance of Indian Music on Vinyl

In an age of digital streaming and algorithmic playlists, there’s something uniquely special about holding vinyl records in your hands. It’s a tactile experience—a moment to pause, appreciate, and connect with music on a deeper level. For Indian independent artists, this resurgence of vinyl culture has become more than just a nostalgic trend; it’s a lifeline that fosters artistic growth and sustainability.

India’s independent music scene has been growing steadily, with a wave of talented musicians carving out their space in genres like alternative rock, electronic, folk fusion, and experimental sounds. Artists like Parekh & Singh, known for their dreamy indie-pop aesthetic, and Prateek Kuhad, whose heartfelt songwriting has garnered a global audience, are leading this charge. Both have embraced the vinyl albums format, creating records that offer a richer, more immersive way to experience their artistry.

Emerging Voices in Vinyl Culture

Meanwhile, newer voices like Priya Ragu, whose Tamil-infused R&B has earned international acclaim, and Nate08, a rising star in India’s burgeoning electronic and funk scenes, have also embraced vinyl music as a way to deliver their innovative soundscapes. Ditty, with her eco-conscious storytelling, and Kamakshi Khanna, whose soulful vocals pair beautifully with lush instrumentation, continue to redefine the boundaries of Indian independent music records—and their work is a perfect fit for the warmth of analog sound.

Legacy Bands and Their Vinyl Journey

For fans of bands with a longer legacy, artists like Indian Ocean, pioneers of the Indian rock-fusion genre, and Soulmate, India’s premier blues band, have embraced the vinyl resurgence. Their timeless music finds new life on records, offering listeners a chance to rediscover their classics. Modern rock and indie acts like The F16s and Aswekeepsearching also bring their dynamic soundscapes to vinyl albums, providing a medium that does justice to their layered compositions.

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Why Supporting Vinyl Matters for Independent Artists

Buying vinyl records isn’t just about enjoying music differently—it’s an act of support. For local music artists, releasing a record is a significant investment. Vinyl pressing is expensive, and each sale directly impacts an artist’s ability to fund future projects, tours, and more. Unlike streaming, where payouts per play are minuscule, vinyl purchases provide tangible revenue and a sense of validation for their creative endeavors.

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Building a Community Through Vinyl Collectors and Events

Supporting independent music records on vinyl isn’t just about individual purchases; it’s about fostering a community that values art and its creators. Vinyl collectors, pop-up events, and listening parties have become spaces where fans and artists interact, share stories, and celebrate music together.

As more Indian artists embrace vinyl albums, fans have an opportunity to contribute to a sustainable music ecosystem while enjoying music in its most authentic form. The next time you come across a vinyl release by an Indian indie artist—be it Priya Ragu, Indian Ocean, Nate08, Soulmate, or many others—consider adding it to your collection. It’s more than just owning a piece of vinyl music; it’s about supporting a dream, a voice, and a movement that’s reshaping India’s musical identity.

The Shift to Intentional Listening with Vinyl

Moreover, the rise of vinyl culture represents a shift back to intentional listening. In a world of shuffle modes and fleeting trends, vinyl encourages fans to slow down and experience an album as the artist intended, from the first track to the last. This connection is vital for independent music musicians who often pour their hearts into crafting cohesive, meaningful bodies of work.

Jameson Connects in partnership with Azadi Records, powered by Jameson Ginger Ale.

The views expressed are those of the author and do not reflect the opinions of Jameson Connects.

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About the author

Nehal Shah

Nehal is the founder-director of India Record Co. A vinyl store that provides artists with the opportunity to turn their music into vinyls and fosters a culture around the analog medium. A DJ and curator, she hosts listening sessions around the country, with multiple artists to bring underrepresented classics to her community.