Our journalism is always free, thanks to the support of our readers. In 2024, Indianapolis music lovers were treated to a plethora of great concerts, with Taylor Swift being a notable marquee act. But local artists also made their mark, carrying the torch for Naptown. As a local music journalist, I had the privilege of witnessing these moments firsthand. Here are seven of my favorite local music memories from the year.

Uncover the Hidden Gems of Indianapolis Music Scene

Everything, Now! Makes a Spectacular Comeback

It had been an astonishingly long decade since local rock 'n' roll heroes Everything, Now! last released new music. However, on June 22nd, this beloved band made a triumphant return. They celebrated the release of their 2024 album "Hideout Mountain" with an electrifying show at State Street Pub. The energy in the venue was palpable as fans rejoiced in the band's long-awaited return. This event was a testament to the enduring power and passion of local music.The band's performance was a masterclass in rock 'n' roll, with each song filled with raw energy and musical prowess. It was a night to remember, as the crowd sang along to every familiar tune. Everything, Now! showed that they are still at the top of their game, and their comeback was a cause for celebration among music lovers in Indianapolis.

I Made Rock ’N’ Roll Festival Shines a Light on Black Artists

Presented by GANGGANG and Forty5, the I Made Rock ’N’ Roll festival was a remarkable celebration of the role of Black artists in shaping rock ’n’ roll history. On May 18th at the American Legion Mall, the first-ever fest was a full day of Black rock in downtown Indy. Performances by Janelle Monáe, Gary Clark Jr., Robert Randolph, and more filled the air with good vibes.Thousands gathered to witness this historic event, which was chock full of talent and energy. The festival showcased the diversity and creativity of Black rock music, providing a platform for these artists to shine. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of Black voices in the music industry and a celebration of their contributions.

Mina Keohane Silences the Doubters

As the frontwoman of Mina & the Wondrous Flying Machine, Mina Keohane has faced her fair share of naysayers throughout her music career. One record producer even had the audacity to tell her, "Nobody is going to like this music." But in 2024, while composing her album "Quiet Little Wreckonings," Keohane embraced her unique songwriting style.With the support of her band, she blazed a confident path, proving her critics wrong. Her music is a reflection of her soul and her vision, and it resonates with listeners on a deep level. Mina Keohane's story is an inspiration to all aspiring musicians, showing that with determination and a true love for music, one can overcome any obstacle.

Music In Transit Video Series Continues to Thrive

Directed by local videographer Jake Huber, the Music In Transit series started in 2019 with the aim of shining a light on Indianapolis music talent and public transit. Over the years, it has welcomed a diverse range of artists, from punk bands to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.In its sixth season, the series featured performances from chicano band Los Aptos, blues troubadour Tommy Baldwin, funk rock powerhouse the Indigos, and more. These intimate sessions on parked IndyGo buses have become a beloved part of the Indianapolis music scene, providing a platform for local artists to showcase their talents to a wider audience.

Oreo Jones Makes a Solo Comeback

Despite being a part of local acts like 81355 and White Moms, local hip-hop mainstay Oreo Jones had been away from the solo scene for eight years until 2024's "Nephew." This project is a celebration of family, featuring contributions from notable collaborators such as rapper Flacoisbored, composer and vocalist Hanna Benn, songwriters Jordan Victoria and Oliver Hopkins, and producers Harry Otaku and Matt Riefler."Nephew" is a testament to Oreo Jones' talent and creativity as a solo artist. His music is a fusion of different styles and influences, creating a unique sound that is all his own. With this comeback, Oreo Jones has once again proven his place in the local hip-hop scene.

Swift City Sessions Highlights Local Music Talent

As Taylor Swift's Eras Tour descended on Indianapolis over the first weekend of November, local artists seized the opportunity through the Indy Arts Council's Swift City Sessions pop-up performances. Stationed across 13 downtown locations, more than 100 musicians and spoken-word artists showcased their talents in stripped-down sessions.Thousands of Swifties stopped to enjoy these performances, providing a boost to the local music scene. It was a wonderful collaboration between local artists and the larger music community, highlighting the talent and diversity of Indianapolis music.

Wishy's European Tour and Homecoming

Since releasing its impressive debut "Triple Seven" in August, Indianapolis indie rock band Wishy has been on an incredible journey. They have toured all over the U.S. and Europe, with West Coast dates scheduled for December. Recently, they returned home for a packed-out show at the Hi-Fi, which felt like another big step in the group's growth.Led by Kevin Krauter and Nina Pitchkites on vocals, Wishy's music is a blend of indie rock and raw emotion. Their performances are always filled with energy and passion, and their European tour has opened up new opportunities for them. This homecoming show was a celebration of their achievements and a sign of things to come.I hope this story has helped you feel more connected to our arts and culture scene. Our nonprofit newsroom relies on donations from people like you who share our passion. Your support helps us deliver stories that reflect our community. Now through December 31, your donation will be tripled thanks to our year-end matching gift campaign.Community-powered journalism can't exist without you. Please support our work today.Amanda KingsburyManaging Editor for Innovation, Mirror Indy