This week Consequence enters its 17th year of existence.

As probably most other independent publishers can attest, the last year has been a challenging one. I’d argue the most challenging one yet. In the last 12 months, Google rolled out multiple core updates to its algorithm, which has especially impacted small- and medium-tier publishers. Facebook further deprioritized news. Elon wrecked Twitter. And there’s much uncertainty about how the emergence of AI will impact the publishing industry and media consumption going forward. It’s all led to much anxiety and many sleepless nights about the future of this industry and publications such as ours that remains very much unsettled.

And yet through these challenges has emerged many intriguing opportunities. Earlier this year, we began exploring the possibility of establishing a publisher collective with fellow independent brands. While we’re still shaping what exactly this collective will look like, the numerous conversations I’ve already had with the folks behind publications has been inspiring. Despite the aforementioned obstacles, there remains an immensely dedicated group of individuals who are passionate about covering music and pop culture, amplifying new talent, and writing about art in ways no algorithm or AI could replicate. I’m proud to be part of that group.

Over the last 17 years, Consequence has grown, evolved, and diversified, launched new verticals and undergone a name change. It has featured a masthead of countless great writers and editors, some who have gone on to do amazing things elsewhere, and others who are still making their mark here today. But at its core, Consequence’s mission statement remains unchanged: to bridge the gap between the underground and mainstream, and to cover art with enthusiasm, not pretension. 17 years later, I think we’re still doing a pretty good job living up to that aspiration.

I’d be remiss not to thank our readers. Some of you have been with us since the beginning, others of you have only joined us more recently. No matter how long you’ve been a reader, thank you. This was never the plan 17 years ago when I was just a 19-year-old kid randomly starting a Blogspot named after a Regina Spektor song. Back then it was a thrill when we cracked a 100 daily readers! The number of daily readers may have grown since then, but my gratitude for those of you who visit has not. I don’t—and never will—take your support for granted.

As for how you can support Consequence on our 17th birthday? Subscribe to our Consequence Daily newsletter. Follow us our various social media channels. Download our mobile app (available on both Apple and Android). Buy a piece of merch from our shop. And spread the word! We’re 17 years old, but there may be folks who haven’t heard of us.

Additionally, in the coming weeks we’ll be launching a premium section of the site where you’ll be able to create an account, customize your front page, and access other exclusive features. Once we’ll roll that out, please consider joining, as it’ll be another important way to support us.

Long live independent music. Long live independent media.