Music That Matters: Finding Music Without Spotify

For years, music streaming platforms have changed how we listen to music. While apps like Spotify and Apple Music make listening convenient, more listeners are turning away because of the recycled recommendations and trend-driven sounds they constantly serve up. There is an entire world outside of these two platforms that offers intentional and personal ways to find music.

1. Artist-First Platforms

If you are seeking out a discovery platform for music, one space for this is Bandcamp, which invites listeners to discover music that aligns with their interests and tastes. Multiple categories and filters allow users to explore new artists within the respective genre. This platform also allows artists to create their own online store where they can directly sell their music. Other examples include Audiomack, Boomkat, and Jamendo. All of these streaming options make music feel very personal, which you might enjoy better than your generic music apps.

2. Human Curated Radio Stations

If you are seeking out a discovery platform for music, one space for this is Bandcamp, which invites listeners to discover music that aligns with their interests and tastes. Multiple categories and filters allow users to explore new artists within the respective genre. This platform also allows artists to create their own online store where they can directly sell their music. Other examples include Audiomack, Boomkat, and Jamendo. All of these streaming options make music feel very personal, which you might enjoy better than your generic music apps.

3. Music Blogs

There are numerous music blogs and online communities out there that spotlight smaller independent artists that nobody has ever heard of, but can be introduced to by subscribing to them. Our online magazine, The MIC Mag, features independent artists by offering meaningful exposure. Some other popular blogs are Drowned in Sound, Beat Breakdown, Aquarium Junkyard, Stereogum, and Spin.

4. Reddit Forums

Reddit has a huge music community as well, allowing artists to submit themselves to forums to be discovered and heard instead of being overlooked by mainstream media. There are so many different sub-categories in Reddit, which makes it easier to navigate when searching for a certain genre or artist that you prefer. This is a great alternative to discovering music you've never heard before.

5. Podcasts

Music isn't the only thing fans listen to. Podcasts have been around for a while, but more and more people are starting to listen and appreciate them. There are multiple types of music podcasts. Genre-specific, band-specific, general, and many more. There is a podcast out there for any music fan to tune into. Most podcasts often feature new artists who have releases to help promote their art. This makes it easier to connect with an artist you don't know since you can hear their story.  Some are by big mainstream artists, and some are just made by the fans who are passionate about music.

4. Local Concerts/Open Mics

Having trouble looking for music you like on streaming platforms? The truth is, music is everywhere and closer to you than you think. Attending open mic nights, local shows, even karaoke nights, and hearing local artists perform is another way to discover great music without having to pay for a subscription. Websites like Eventbrite and Facebook make finding open mic nights easier. Or, can follow The MIC NJ Newsletter, where they give you a curated rundown of local shows across NJ, NY, and PA! Hearing music live not only introduces you to new sounds but also connects you to the people making the music and the others exploring with you.

LONG STORY SHORT: It takes curiosity and intention, but finding music outside of major streaming platforms is possible. It all starts with the willingness to look and explore to find new sounds and music that intrigues you. These methods are just a start to how you can find new music and be so personally connected with the artists and their story behind why they make music. Understanding the backstory and meaning behind artists and their music enhances the experience for the listener rather than listening to mainstream artists on repeat.