Jorja Smith recently accepted an award at this year's Independent Music Awards for her song "The Way I Love You." The event took place at London's Roundhouse on Tuesday night and celebrated unsigned artists and small record labels. Smith thanked the audience for the opportunity to create music, mentioning that she has been making music since she was just 11 years old. She also encouraged the crowd to applaud other nominees and winners, highlighting the importance of recognizing talent across the board. Swedish singer-songwriter Robyn's latest album, Sexistential, was named best independent album at the ceremony. The album reflects Robyn's signature style of blending electronic and pop elements with deeply personal lyrics. Pauline Black, a prominent figure in the 2-Tone music movement known for its fusion of ska and punk, received the outstanding contribution to music award. Jalen Ngonda, whose music draws inspiration from Motown's soulful sound, won the best breakthrough act prize, marking a significant step in his career. Jim Legxacy was honored with the best EP for black British music, a category that celebrates emerging talent in the UK's diverse music scene. His EP included hit tracks like "06 Wayne Rooney," which showcases his ability to blend storytelling with contemporary sounds. The recognition of these artists highlights the growing influence of independent music and the importance of platforms that support creative freedom and innovation. Gee Davy, CEO of the Association of Independent Music, which organized the event, stated that this year's winners demonstrated "extraordinary success" through "collective strength." She credited the "spirit of collaboration" as a key reason why members of the association continue to create cultural and commercial value despite their relatively small scale. The awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also emphasize the power of community and shared effort in the music industry.