The emergence of indie rock as a genre has helped categorize artists who belong to independent record labels. These musicians, due to their refusal to appeal to the mainstream, have boycotted the corporate rock scene to maintain more creative control. Readers learn about the debate behind whether indie bands later picked up by major labels should still be considered indie and why some see them as sell outs. Detailed sidebars, an essential albums list, and annotated quotes from artists and critics are also included to expose readers to the musicians responsible for the inception and continuance of indie rock.