I've heard the term "indie" thrown around a lot these days and I'm wondering what the definition of indie is. I take this to be a reference to a musician, small record label, or film company with no affiliation with a large corporation. I read this article by Bob Baker, the author of "Branding Yourself Online: How to Use the Internet to Become a Celebrity or an Expert in Your Field" and the "Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook." He defines INDIE as: I - Inspired He said that to embrace the indie mood, you have to be inspired. You have to know in your gut that music is what you're meant for. You need to gain energy when you write, record and perform your music. When this kind of natural inspiration comes to you, it's a sure sign that you're on the right path. And you will need this desire to overcome the ups and downs of the independent musical journey. N - Non-traditional indie musicians don't mind learning what came before and are happy to listen to the "rules" that others say they are required to have a successful music career. However, the smartest independent artists keep their minds flexible and constantly ask themselves questions about how the supposed "rules" of the past really apply to them. They actually develop a mentality that seeks the road less traveled. And when they spot a good idea that is outside the traditional path, they pursue it fearlessly and unapologetically. D - Determined Successful independent artists are set on their goals and determined to achieve them. They still leave room to deviate from the original plan when necessary, but they are steadfast in their desire to produce more and better music, reach more fans, sell more CDs, etc. With this attitude, obstacles become short-term learning experiences. the path to higher levels of success.I - InnovativeBeing an indie means thinking outside the proverbial box and looking at new opportunities from every angle. It means not promoting yourself in the same way that a thousand other acts have done.