10 Best Places to Discover New Music: From Streaming to Chicago Record Stores & More
By Dennis M. Kelly – Image by Martine from Pixabay
Are you in a rut and having trouble finding great new music? Well, here are our top 10 suggestions to help you break that rut and fill your life with fresh new music again.
1. Streaming & Discovery Platforms (Bandcamp, SoundCloud, Spotify, YouTube)
These platforms are central to modern music discovery, each offering unique features to help you find new artists and tracks:
Bandcamp: Known for its direct artist-to-fan model, Bandcamp allows artists to set their own prices and offers features like album-of-the-week highlights and genre-specific recommendations.
SoundCloud: SoundCloud’s algorithm recommends your tracks to listeners with similar tastes, and features like the “Track Station” provide curated playlists based on songs you enjoy.
Spotify: Spotify’s “Discovery Mode” enhances track visibility in algorithmic playlists, leading to increased saves and follows.
YouTube Music: YouTube Music offers personalized “Taste Match” playlists and integrates concert alerts, connecting fans with artists through shared musical preferences. For a visual demonstration of YouTube Music’s discovery features, including its “Taste Match” playlists, you might find this video insightful:
2. TikTok
Viral clips on TikTok often turn obscure tracks into global anthems overnight. Its algorithm thrives on niche trends, making it a surprisingly powerful way to uncover new artists. Many artists gained mainstream success by way of TikTok, including, Olivia Rodrigo, Doja Cat, and Steve Lacy.
3. Local Record Stores
Record shops like the ones listed below are gateways into local and global music scenes. Staff picks, in-store performances, and crate-digging make them perfect for discovering hidden gems.
4. Chicago College Radio Stations
Stations like WNUR, WKKC, WLUW, WHPK, WZRD, WCRX, and WIIT keep music discovery alive through eclectic, DJ-curated shows. They highlight emerging talent and offer sounds you won’t find on mainstream stations.
5. Open Mics, Live Shows & Festivals
Checking out local open mics, opening acts at concerts, or exploring side stages at festivals can introduce you to rising stars. Lollapalooza had a ton of great new artists this year and the BMI stage always introduces festivalgoers to new music on their stage. The live experiences often help people connect with new music quicker.
6. TV, Film & Video Game Soundtracks
Music supervisors and game developers curate tracks that often become cultural touchstones. From indie films to blockbuster games, soundtracks are an underrated source of discovery. Soundtracks in games like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, GTA, and FIFA have introduced generations of players to new artists.
7. Podcasts & Music Shows
Many podcasts feature niche music or spotlight independent artists through interviews and live sessions. They often introduce you to scenes and genres outside the mainstream. NPR’s All Songs Considered, and Song Exploder are two great examples.
8. Record Label Samplers & Compilations
Following your favorite labels on their social media accounts or even subscribing to their newsletters will often lead you to discover their full roster. Label compilations are curated roadmaps to new music in a style you already love.
9. Twitch & Livestream Communities
DJs, producers, and streamers often play unreleased tracks or fan-submitted music live. It’s interactive and lets you be part of music discovery in real time. Soulection and Deadmau5 provide one-of-a-kind content highlighting new music, premiering tracks and even in the case of Deadmau5, shares works in progress; you can’t get any newer than that.
10. Local Libraries
Many libraries (including the Chicago Public Library) offer free access to CDs, vinyl, and even streaming platforms like Hoopla and Freegal. They’re a surprising, budget-friendly way to explore both classic and brand-new music.
How do you find new music? Let us know at info@chicagomusic.guide
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