BMUSIC'97 

Although it was originated with punk in the 1970s, is often associated with indie. From its beginning, punk was a movement that was created with a set of ideals and values. There are a number of cultural and philosophical traits which could be more useful in pinpointing what "indie" means than could any specific musical or commercial trait. The concept of a "sell-out" is a value of punk rock: If an indie artist changes his or her musical style to a commercially viable sound to make more money or become famous, they are considered "sell-outs," meaning they changed their values for money. Such an indie artist would be rejected from the indie community. Issues of sincerity, authenticity, and independence are addressed in such situations.