Indie labels unite for Independents Day 08

While some argue that major labels are digging their graves, independent labels the world over feel they’ve got something to celebrate: none other than their very independence. On July 4, members of the Worldwide Independent Network (WIN) will hold the first-ever ‘Independents Day,’ a multi-layered event that aims to garner recognition and funds for the international independent music industry and related charities.

Trade organizations from the territories involved in the event will hold individual celebrations as part of the larger event headed by WIN. The festivities will kick off in New Zealand and close in the U.S., hitting up the U.K., Japan, Italy, Australia, South Africa, France, Austria and Spain along the way. Although celebrations will vary from country to country, the entire event will culminate in the largest-ever independent music and music collectibles auction. The auction, to be held on eBay, will feature rare, autographed or otherwise appealing recordings and artist paraphernalia. Some confirmed items include an ultra-rare Interpol 7" box set and a Thom Yorke signed CD.

The event is also slated to feature limited-edition independent music compilations and polls of the best in independent music. Independents Day USA, for instance, hosted by the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM), will release a digital-only album composed of rarities and live recordings to be sold exclusively on July 4th weekend. The Australian celebration, organized by the Australian Independent Records Association (AIR), will hold an auction, sell an album, and also let the public cast votes to rank the top 10 best independent albums from a list of 50 nominees.

The proceeds of the event will head toward independent music-related causes. A portion will benefit charities such as MusiCares and the Musicians Benevolent Fund. Other money from the event will go toward independent music initiatives in certain developing nations, bursaries to international trade fairs, and efforts to work with schools and colleges.

"Independents Day 08 is the first event of its kind, bringing together the best in music making and a global auction," said WIN president, Alison Wenham, in a statement. "We hope it raises lots of money and awareness for the charities, and for the sector to continue to push at the margins of creativity."

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