Jorja Smith Wins Best Track at Independent Music Awards
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Jorja Smith took home the prize for her 2025 track The Way I Love You at the Independent Music Awards.
By Naomi de Souza and Eleanor Doyle, BBC Newsbeat
Published 23 September 2026, 12:02 BST | Updated 47 minutes ago
Smith, visibly excited, reflected on her "crazy" music journey and celebrated other artists during her acceptance speech at London's Roundhouse.
"Everyone should be so proud," she said, "especially those doing everything independently."
The annual awards recognize unsigned artists and small record labels. Robyn's Sexistential was named best independent album, while Pauline Black received the outstanding contribution to music award.
Motown-inspired musician Jalen Ngonda won best breakthrough act, and Jim Legxacy took home best EP for black British music.
Music journalist Nicolas-Tyrell Scott emphasizes these awards showcase the potential for independent artists to reach massive success, citing Jim Legxacy's growing attention in both New York and LA.
Riley, a Glasgow-born country singer, initially pursued music independently, noting the lack of label support can be a disadvantage, but also highlights the rewarding nature of self-promotion.
Gee Davy, CEO of the Association of Independent Music, praised the winners for their "extraordinary success" through "collective strength" and "a spirit of collaboration".
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