Which term refers to music that is produced without the backing of a major label?

The term that refers to music produced without the backing of a major label is "indie music." This genre is characterized by its independence from major record labels and often reflects a more personal or artistic approach to music-making. Indie artists typically have more creative control over their sound and promotional strategies, allowing them to explore diverse styles and themes that may not align with mainstream commercial expectations.

In contrast to indie music, major label music is produced with significant backing from large recording companies, which can heavily influence the sound and direction of the music to cater to a wider audience. Pop music is a genre that often receives widespread commercial support and is characterized by its mass appeal, while mainstream music represents the more commercially successful and widely promoted music often distributed by major labels. Therefore, indie music embodies the spirit of artistic independence and self-production, making it distinct from other types of music in the industry.