The first nominees for this year’s Independent Music Awards (AIM) have been revealed, including a sweeping number of dance music artists.

The 15th edition of the AIM Awards will take place at London’s Roundhouse on September 23, celebrating independent musicians from the UK and beyond.

This year, Ezra Collective, Fcukers, and anaiis have each received “milestone” double nominations, leading the shortlist for 2025.

Elsewhere, artists including Fontaines D.C., John Glacier, Oklou, Maverick Sabre, TAAHLIAH, and Moonchild Sanelly are all up for the ‘Best Independent Album’ category.

Up for the ‘Best Independent Track’ Award this year are Ezra Collective & Yazmin Lacey with ‘God Gave Me Feet For Dancing’, JIALING’s ‘Freaky Horns’, Jim Legxacy’s ‘father’, and Miso Extra & Metronomy’s ‘Good Kisses’, amongst others.

Both hard techno DJ Sara Landry and Glaswegian producer corto.alto have been nominated as breakthrough acts, while Fcukers and Shygirl each receive nominations for ‘Best Independent EP/Mixtape’. 

After its introduction last year, the AIM Awards will bring back its ‘Best Independent Record Store’ category in 2025, as voted on by the public.

“I’m inspired by the extraordinary creativity flowing from the UK’s independent music community,” says Gee Davy, CEO of AIM. “Every year, our sector delivers music that speaks to hearts, minds and dancing feet – and this year’s nominees are no exception.”

“Independence in music means freedom to create, innovate and build careers and businesses on our own terms,” he added. “The independent sector is where culture meets commercial success, and our 2025 nominees perfectly embody that intersection.”