Independents Win Big At Grammys, Including Album Of The Year

NEW YORK (Top40 Charts/ Shore Fire Media) - Independent artists and labels made a remarkable showing at this year's Grammy Awards, winning in a broad swath of categories, including 30 "Best Album" awards, plus the night's biggest honor, Album of the Year. The nod for Album of the Year, for Taylor Swift's 'Fearless' (Big Machine), marked the second Album of the Year win in a row for independent labels, following 2009's winner 'Raising Sand' (Rounder).

Indies scored a total of 43 awards in the Pop, Rock, Alternative, Country, New Age, Jazz, Gospel, Tropical Latin, Tejano, Norteno, Bando, Americana, Bluegrass, Blues, Folk, Hawaiian, Native American, Zydeco/Cajun, World, Spoken Word, Comedy, Surround Sound, & Classical genres, and also scored for Best Recording Package.

Jim Mahoney, Vice President of the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM), said: "Independents proudly shared the stage at tonight's Grammys, well represented in nominations and Awards. We celebrate the genre diversity offered by independents and applaud our talented artists and the labels who support them"

Original Signal recording artist Butch Walker performed with Taylor Swift during the telecast, and said: "It was an honor to share the stage with my fellow independent artist Taylor Swift, and it's great to see the Grammys recognizing indies in so many categories across the board this year."

A2IM board member and Alligator Records Founder Bruce Iglauer said: "Buckwheat Zydeco and Alligator Records are thrilled with the first Grammy victory of his 30-year career. This is a victory not only for a great American roots artist, but also for the independent label community, which has shown a decades-long commitment to recording and promoting the world's music traditions, and not just chasing today's hits."

Glassnote Records President Daniel Glass said: "We are thrilled and proud of PHOENIX's Grammy Award. This is an inspiring year for Glassnote, PHOENIX and all independents. Its gratifying that a great album and effort is recognized."

New West Records President Cameron Strang said: "We are honored to be Steve Earle's record label and congratulate Steve on his much deserved Grammy for his album Townes. The Independent part of the business is more important than ever and it is very gratifying to see so many incredibly talented independent artists and labels recognized by the Academy."