AIM AWARDS CELEBRATE INDIE EXCELLENCE

Barry Can’t Swim (pictured), Jorja Smith, Sampha and Heavenly Recordings were among the winners Thursday night (10/17) at the AIM Awards in London. The Association of Independent Music is a nonprofit trade organization representing the U.K.'s independent sector.

The award for U.K. Independent Breakthrough went to Scottish producer Barry Can’t Swim, following the critical success of his debut, When Will We Land (Ninja Tune). The set reached #12 on the U.K. album chart in 2023 and preceded a string of sold-out shows as well as a Glastonbury performance.

Smith took home Best Independent Album for her second set, falling or flying (FAMM), which reached #3 in the U.K. last October. Sampha was honored with Best Independent Track for “Spirit 2.0” (Young) and Best Independent Video for “Only.”

Heavenly Recordings, celebrating 20-plus years in business, won Best Independent Label. Sonic Cathedral took Best Boutique Label.

British rapper Potter Payper got Best Independent Breakthrough EP/mixtape for Thanks for Hating (EGA). Manchester MC OneDa, who released her debut via Heavenly earlier this year, was anointed One to Watch.

Influential sibling duo Sparks accepted the Outstanding Contribution to Music award and announced a new deal with Transgressive for its upcoming 28th studio album. Fellow veteran artist Neneh Cherry received the Innovator award.

The Music Venue Trust, co-founded by Mark Davyd and Beverley Whitrick, won Independent Music Champion for its work protecting grassroots music venues.

“When people think of independent music, they sometimes think small. But the global success and sheer breadth of talent on display tonight shows a sector at the peak of commercial and cultural achievement," said AIM interim CEO Gee Davy. "This community never ceases to amaze me with its collective spirit in celebrating each others' wins and recognizing that we rise highest when we rise together.”