The Association of Independent Music has announced the first wave of nominees for the 2026 Independent Music Awards, with New York electronic act Fcukers topping the list on three nominations — Best Independent Album, Best Independent Track and Independent Breakthrough.

A group of artists follow with two nominations each: Robyn, Jalen Ngonda, Jim Legxacy, Jorja Smith, Nova Twins, Romy and Tiana Major9. Other acts in contention include Geese, Arca, Fat Dog, Bicep and Thundercat.

On the label front, Young tops the tally with five nominations, ahead of XL Recordings and Ninja Tune with four each. FAMM and Marshall Records each picked up three nods.

AIM chief executive Gee Davy said the nominee list reflects the range and originality driving the UK’s independent music scene, calling it proof that the sector remains one of the industry’s most dynamic spaces. She added that this year’s ceremony will introduce a refreshed format following last year’s 15th-anniversary edition.

Two categories — Best Independent Record Store and Best Live Performer — will be decided by public vote, with winners revealed at the ceremony.

Key nomination categories:

  • Best Independent Track: Debby Friday, Fcukers, Genesis Owusu, Jalen Ngonda, Jim Legxacy, Jorja Smith, Nova Twins, Robyn, Romy, Tiana Major9
  • Best Independent Album: Bicep, Blawan, Fcukers, Geese, Mitski, Nova Twins, Prostitute, Robyn, SCALER, Thundercat
  • Independent Breakthrough: Fat Dog, Fcukers, Jalen Ngonda, Tiana Major9, Ego Ella May
  • Best Independent Mixtape/EP: Bricknasty, Jim Legxacy, Naima Bock, Strandz, TTSSFU
  • One To Watch: Ashaine White, Alewya, Lauren Auder, Mandy Indiana, Native James

The 2026 Independent Music Awards will take place at London’s Roundhouse on September 22, sponsored by Amazon Music, Merlin and Meta.