How Does It Feel to Be Loved?

2026年8月20日

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History and Features of HDIF

How Does It Feel to Be Loved? (HDIF) is a renowned nightclub based in Greater London, United Kingdom. Founded in 2006, the club is celebrated for its eclectic mix of indie pop, Northern Soul, and Motown music. The name of the club is inspired by the lyrics from The Velvet Underground’s song “Beginning to See the Light.” Ian Watson, the founder and a former journalist for Melody Maker, describes the club’s ethos on its website: “We love pop, we love guitars that jangle, we love foot stomping melodies and huge choruses.”

HDIF began in April 2002 at The Buffalo Bar in Islington, initiated by Watson. Currently, it takes place on the third Saturday of each month at The Phoenix in Marylebone, central London. Over the years, HDIF has been hosted at various venues across the city, including the 100 Club on Oxford Street, The Canterbury Arms, The Windmill and Jamm in Brixton, Buffalo Bar in Highbury, The Grosvenor in Stockwell, Nambucca in Archway, The Shacklewell Arms in Dalston, The Crypt in Camberwell, and the Montague Arms in Peckham. Notably, it was held at The Canterbury Arms from 2003 to 2015, making it Brixton’s longest-running indie club night.

The club has received widespread acclaim from the press, with NME describing it as a “legendary indie club,” and The Quietus calling it a “much-loved indie pop institution.” Flavorpill praised it as “one of London’s most enduring and influential underground indie get-togethers,” and in January 2015, Time Out named it one of “London’s best indie nights.”

Musical Influence and Impact

HDIF has significantly influenced the indie music scene through its live shows and DJ sets. Since July 2005, it has promoted live performances under the “HDIF Presents” banner, featuring a diverse array of bands. In March 2020, HDIF adapted to the digital age by launching online Virtual Dance Parties, featuring a host of notable DJs.

The HDIF record label, launched in September 2006, has released a compilation album featuring artists who have performed at the club. The label has continued to support indie music by releasing albums from various artists. Since 2011, HDIF has been part of the End of the Road Festival, offering both a children’s “Forest Disco” and a late-night set for adults.