Music Resource Group (MRG) has announced the finalists of the 4^th annual Independent Music Awards (IMA) program. The list of finalists in 18 music and design categories include solo artists, bands and graphic designers from the United States, Canada, England, France and Switzerland.

For the first time, finalists in the IMA's, a program that develops new markets for independent artists, labels & releases, will have their nominated tracks streamed from a dedicated Jukebox. Designed to expose the nominees and their music to industry professionals and targeted consumers, the songs are sorted by genre so that listeners can easily preview each track nominated in that category.

According to Program Director Martin Folkman, the decision to develop an area for people to hear the finalists’ material and to learn more about them is intended to widen exposure and opportunities for all of those nominated. "Making all the finalists music available is a critical component that's in keeping with the intent of the program," Folkman said. Our goal is to build new markets and opportunities for these incredible artists. The Jukebox creates an opportunity for them to connect with new fans and industry."

The finalist's jukebox will be promoted online, in print and at industry events.

According to Folkman finalists are also encouraged to reach out to their own fan bases and support teams and direct them to the Jukebox to discover other noteworthy independent talent. "Indie artists need to promote and support each other and independent music as a more than viable alternative to a majors only world," says Folkman. " There's strength in numbers."

Winners of the 4^th annual Independent Music Awards will be officially announced in early January in a special 8-page gatefold section which will appear in the 2005 edition of The Musician’s Atlas, the best-selling music industry resource.

A CD compilation of the winning tracks will be promoted to radio, industry and fans. Their music will be featured on a dedicated IMA Winners Jukebox. To hear the music of the 3rd Independent Music Awards winners click here.

Created and coordinated by Music Resource Group, the Independent Music Awards are co-sponsored by Borders Books & Music. In Spring 2005, Borders plans to expand its previous support of the program by promoting IMA program winners through a variety of multimedia and retail marketing programs and events.

More details about IMA winners and the program will be available during the first quarter of 2005.