They represent a new wave of Black indie artists who defy traditional genre ... RUN D.M.C. served as more than just musical icons for a young white kid like myself; they were a cultural force ...

Despite their love of indie music and varied inspirations ... work a hundred times harder than the average white guy, because people see as Black artists and just chuck us in the R&B space.

In honor of Black Music Month, The Forefront Group hosted The Future Of Indie Music conversation, and invited guests to Los Angeles’ The Gathering Spot to collect gems dropped from a dynamic panel.