Why Independent Artists Are Being Nominated For More GRAMMY Awards Than Ever Before

Today, more than ever before, independent artists have access to resources that have been historically reserved for major artists and major record labels. Indie artists can secure quality production, manufacturing and distribution, marketing and promotion, touring and endorsements with relatively less effort than 10 years ago.

Social media and the blogosphere has become the quintessential publicity platform for indie artists, resulting in YouTube sensations, blog buzzers, and insta-artists. What’s more, traditional outlets such as radio, TV and film has been more accepting of indie artists than ever before; with bands being featured on reality shows and commercials and indie artists being included in movie soundtracks.

Every year The Recording Academy awards over 80 categories for creative excellence in the music industry, from “Album Of The Year” to “Best Engineered Album”. As more and more independent artists become aware of The Recording Academy (thanks to the Academy’s outreach and education efforts) the number of independent artist becoming members is increasing.

As a result, there has been more independent artists recognized in GRAMMY Award nominations. In the past 4 years, independent artists have been leading the way in GRAMMY Award nominations. In 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 at least half the nominees of GRAMMY Awards were independent artists. In 2009 and 2011 indie artists took home half of the GRAMMY Awards.

GRAMMY Awards are not based on radio airplay, record sales, or the number of gigs performed. The GRAMMY Awards are awarded to nominees based on votes from members of The Recording Academy (including other independent artists). It is therefore an important part of the process to network with members of The Recording Academy in the campaign to win a GRAMMY Award.

For information about joining The Recording Academy visit http://www.grammy.org/recording-academy/member-benefits

Check out this infograph:

Source: http://www.grammy.org/recording-academy/awards/road-to-grammy-gold