Indie songs, short for independent music, are characterized by their unique sound, often featuring unconventional melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and a DIY ethos. Indie artists typically produce music outside of major record labels, allowing for more creative freedom and experimentation with different styles and genres.
Indie songs can cover a wide range of musical styles, from indie rock and folk to indie pop and electronic. What sets indie music apart is its focus on authenticity and artistic expression, often exploring themes of personal introspection, social commentary, and emotional depth.
Indie songs have gained popularity for their raw and honest approach to music-making, resonating with listeners looking for something beyond the mainstream. Indie artists often have a dedicated fan base that appreciates their unique sound and values their independence and creativity.
1. Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” is a song by the American rock band Nirvana, released in 1991 as the lead single from their second studio album, “Nevermind.” The song is credited with helping to popularize alternative rock and grunge music and is considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” is characterized by its loud, distorted guitars, powerful drums, and angst-filled lyrics. The song’s title and chorus were inspired by a deodorant brand and are meant to capture the rebellious spirit of youth culture.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and earning Nirvana a Grammy Award nomination. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” has since become an anthem for a generation and a defining song of the grunge era, cementing Nirvana’s place in rock music history.
2. Losing My Religion – R.E.M.
“Losing My Religion” is a song by the American alternative rock band R.E.M., released in 1991 as the lead single from their album “Out of Time.” The song is known for its distinctive mandolin riff, haunting melody, and introspective lyrics.
“Losing My Religion” is about unrequited love and the feelings of doubt and uncertainty that can accompany it. The song’s title is an expression meaning “losing one’s temper or civility” or “feeling frustrated or desperate.” However, the phrase was also used in the southern region of the United States to express being at wit’s end.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning R.E.M. several Grammy Award nominations. “Losing My Religion” has since become one of R.E.M.’s most popular and enduring songs, and is often regarded as one of the greatest songs of the 1990s.
3. Bitter Sweet Symphony – The Verve
“Bitter Sweet Symphony” by The Verve is a song released in 1997 as the lead track on their third studio album, “Urban Hymns.” The song is known for its orchestral arrangement, featuring a prominent string section, and its melancholic lyrics.
“Bitter Sweet Symphony” is about the struggles of life and the search for meaning and purpose. The song’s lyrics reflect on the fleeting nature of happiness and the inevitability of pain and disappointment. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “It’s a bittersweet symphony, this life,” captures the complex emotions of the human experience.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries. However, The Verve faced legal issues over the song’s use of a sample from an orchestral recording, leading to a controversial settlement. Despite this, “Bitter Sweet Symphony” has become one of The Verve’s most iconic songs, praised for its powerful lyrics and lush orchestration.
4. Such Great Heights – The Postal Service
“Such Great Heights,” released in 2003 by The Postal Service, is an indie-electronic gem that captivates with its dreamy melodies and introspective lyrics. Written by Ben Gibbard and Jimmy Tamborello, the song features Gibbard’s emotive vocals set against a backdrop of electronic beats and synthesizers. Its poignant lyrics explore themes of distance, longing, and the complexities of modern relationships. “Such Great Heights” became a defining track of the indie-electronic genre, celebrated for its lush production and heartfelt storytelling. The song’s evocative atmosphere and melodic charm have made it a beloved favorite among fans and a standout in The Postal Service’s discography.
5. Float On – Modest Mouse
“Float On,” released in 2004 by Modest Mouse, is an indie rock anthem celebrated for its optimistic and resilient message. Written by Isaac Brock, the song’s upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riff, and spirited vocals convey a sense of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. Its lyrics reflect on life’s uncertainties and challenges, urging listeners to remain optimistic and “float on” through difficult times. “Float On” became a commercial success, topping alternative rock charts and earning critical acclaim for its infectious energy and relatable themes. The song remains a timeless favorite, cherished for its uplifting spirit and memorable melodies that resonate with listeners.
6. Take Me Out – Franz Ferdinand
“Take Me Out” is a song by the Scottish rock band Franz Ferdinand, released in 2004 as the second single from their self-titled debut album. The song is known for its catchy guitar riff, energetic tempo, and danceable rhythm.
“Take Me Out” is about the excitement and anticipation of going out for a night on the town. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of youthful exuberance and freedom, with the chorus expressing a desire to break free from the monotony of everyday life and have a good time.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning Franz Ferdinand critical acclaim. “Take Me Out” has since become one of the band’s most popular and enduring songs, known for its infectious energy and memorable chorus.
7. Pumped Up Kicks – Foster the People
“Pumped Up Kicks,” released in 2010 by Foster the People, is a synth-pop indie rock song with a catchy melody that belies its darker subject matter. Written by Mark Foster, the song’s upbeat tempo and infectious chorus mask its lyrical content, which explores themes of youth violence and alienation. The lyrics tell the story of a troubled youth contemplating violence, juxtaposed against a backdrop of upbeat instrumentation and catchy hooks. “Pumped Up Kicks” became a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and sparking discussions about its complex themes and social commentary. The song remains a provocative and thought-provoking piece, highlighting Foster the People’s ability to blend catchy melodies with poignant storytelling.
8. No Rain – Blind Melon
“No Rain” is a song by the American rock band Blind Melon, released in 1992 on their self-titled debut album. The song is known for its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and positive lyrics.
“No Rain” is about feeling isolated and misunderstood, but ultimately finding solace and comfort in music. The song’s lyrics, with lines like “And I don’t understand why I sleep all day, and I start to complain that there’s no rain,” convey a sense of longing and yearning for connection.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “No Rain” is often regarded as Blind Melon’s signature song and has since become a classic rock staple, known for its uplifting message and infectious groove.
9. 1901 – Phoenix
“1901,” released in 2009 by Phoenix, is an indie rock anthem that combines infectious energy with nostalgic undertones. Written by Thomas Mars and the band members, the song’s driving rhythm, pulsating synths, and Mars’ distinctive vocals create a dynamic and uplifting atmosphere. Its lyrics reflect on the passage of time and memories of a bygone era, capturing a sense of longing and excitement for the future. “1901” became a critical and commercial success, solidifying Phoenix’s reputation for crafting catchy and introspective indie rock tunes. The song’s infectious melody and evocative lyrics have made it a favorite among fans and a standout in Phoenix’s discography.
10. Flume – Bon Iver
“Flume” is a song by American indie folk band Bon Iver, released in 2007 as the lead track on their debut album, “For Emma, Forever Ago.” The song is characterized by its haunting vocals, sparse instrumentation, and intimate lyrics.
“Flume” is about the end of a relationship and the feelings of longing and nostalgia that come with it. The song’s lyrics, with lines like “Only love is all maroon, gluey feathers on a flume,” evoke a sense of melancholy and introspection.
The song was well-received by critics and helped establish Bon Iver as a leading voice in indie folk music. “Flume” has since become one of the band’s most popular and enduring songs, praised for its emotional depth and atmospheric sound.
11. Skinny Love – Bon Iver
“Skinny Love,” released in 2007 by Bon Iver, is a haunting folk song that resonates with raw emotion and introspection. Written by Justin Vernon, the song’s sparse instrumentation, including Vernon’s soulful vocals and acoustic guitar, creates an intimate and melancholic atmosphere. Its poetic lyrics explore themes of heartbreak, vulnerability, and the fragility of love. “Skinny Love” gained acclaim for its haunting melody and emotional depth, showcasing Vernon’s ability to convey raw emotion through his music. The song has become a defining track in Bon Iver’s repertoire, revered for its authenticity and profound storytelling that continues to resonate with listeners.
12. Young Folks – Peter Bjorn and John
“Young Folks” is a song by the Swedish indie pop band Peter Bjorn and John, released in 2006 on their album “Writer’s Block.” The song is known for its catchy melody, whistling hook, and upbeat vibe.
“Young Folks” is a duet featuring lead vocals by Peter Morén and guest vocals by Victoria Bergsman of the band The Concretes. The song’s lyrics are about young love and the excitement of new beginnings, with the chorus expressing a desire to “feel like a number one.”
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries. “Young Folks” has since become one of Peter Bjorn and John’s most popular and recognizable songs, known for its infectious whistling and summery sound.
13. Two Weeks – Grizzly Bear
“Two Weeks,” released in 2009 by Grizzly Bear, is an indie rock song known for its lush harmonies, intricate instrumentation, and dreamy atmosphere. Written by Ed Droste and featuring Chris Taylor’s distinctive production, the song’s ethereal vocals and layered arrangements create a hypnotic and immersive listening experience. Its lyrics explore themes of longing and desire, capturing the complexity of relationships and emotional vulnerability. “Two Weeks” became a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its intricate composition and evocative storytelling. The song remains a standout in Grizzly Bear’s discography, celebrated for its sonic richness and introspective lyrics that resonate with listeners.
14. Your Ex-Lover Is Dead – Stars
“Your Ex-Lover Is Dead” is a song by the Canadian indie pop band Stars, released in 2004 on their album “Set Yourself on Fire.” The song is known for its lush instrumentation, emotional lyrics, and haunting vocals.
“Your Ex-Lover Is Dead” is about the end of a relationship and the conflicting emotions that come with it. The song’s lyrics, with lines like “I’m not sorry I met you, I’m not sorry it’s over, I’m not sorry there’s nothing to save,” convey a sense of closure and acceptance.
The song was well-received by critics and has since become one of Stars’ most popular and enduring songs. “Your Ex-Lover Is Dead” is praised for its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody, and has resonated with listeners around the world.
15. Maps – Yeah Yeah Yeahs
“Maps,” released in 2003 by Yeah Yeah Yeahs, is an indie rock anthem that captivates with its raw emotion and powerful vocals. Written by Karen O, Nick Zinner, and Brian Chase, the song’s driving guitar riff, pulsating rhythm, and Karen O’s impassioned vocals create a visceral and cathartic experience. Its lyrics explore themes of love, longing, and heartache, reflecting on the pain of separation and the desire to reconcile. “Maps” became a breakout hit for Yeah Yeah Yeahs, earning critical acclaim and becoming a defining song of the indie rock genre. Its intense emotion and memorable melody have made it a beloved favorite among fans and a timeless classic in alternative music.