Fans of indie music will soon have a new destination on BBC Sounds, with the BBC planning to launch a dedicated 24-hour Radio 6 Music stream focused entirely on indie rock and pop.
The new station extension, available exclusively through BBC Sounds, is expected to launch in summer 2026 and will be accessible via the BBC Sounds app, website and smart speakers.
How to access the new 6 Music Indie stream
Once launched, listeners will be able to access the service through BBC Sounds.
On the BBC Sounds app
- Download or open the BBC Sounds app.
- Sign in with a BBC account.
- Search for “6 Music Indie” or browse the music stations section.
- Tap play to start listening.
On a web browser
Visit BBC Sounds on your desktop or mobile browser and search for the new stream.
On smart speakers
The service will also be available through supported smart speakers. Users should be able to request the station through BBC Sounds voice commands once it launches.
What music will it play?
The stream will focus on indie rock and pop from the 1980s through to the 2010s, alongside newer grassroots artists.
The BBC says listeners can expect artists including:
- Arctic Monkeys
- Florence + The Machine
- Oasis
- Pulp
- The 1975
- The Killers
- The Smiths
- The Stone Roses
- The Strokes
- The xx
- Wolf Alice
Around 70% of the playlist will feature UK artists.
Alongside music, the stream will include archive interviews, classic BBC live sessions, themed music programming and a dedicated show spotlighting emerging British artists and independent music venues.
Listeners will also be able to hear a simulcast of 6 Music’s weekly Indie Forever programme, which airs on Friday evenings.
Why is the BBC launching it?
According to the BBC, the new service is designed to celebrate the station’s indie roots while giving listeners a more focused destination for guitar-based music.
Samantha Moy, Head of BBC Radio 6 Music, said the stream would honour the station’s beginnings while continuing 6 Music’s tradition of storytelling and music discovery.
The BBC believes the service will appeal particularly to listeners aged 25 to 45 and offer a dedicated home for fans of indie music without changing the main 6 Music station.
Is it replacing BBC Radio 6 Music?
No.
The Indie stream will sit alongside the existing Radio 6 Music service rather than replacing it. The main station will continue to broadcast its usual mix of alternative music, specialist shows and presenters.
The new stream is designed as an additional listening option for fans who want a more concentrated indie soundtrack throughout the day.
When does it launch?
The BBC has confirmed plans for a summer 2026 launch.
Media regulator Ofcom approved the proposal in April, concluding that the new stream would not have a significant impact on commercial radio competition.
An exact launch date has not yet been announced.
COMMENTS