It's simply amazing how technology has made it easier for us to discover new things; from taking up a new hobby, to staying connected with family or friends who live thousands of miles away. Gadgets like the latest mobile phones and eBook readers, as well as social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter, has made learning and communication more accessible. It's no wonder why there are so many available apps being developed nowadays, especially those that cater to people who love music. Here are several free apps that makes it easy to discover new music, albums and artists. Note: These apps were tested using an Apple iPod Touch.
Pandora Radio allows music-lovers to create playlists tailored to their musical tastes. Simply search for your favorite musician, composer, song or genre, and the app automatically creates a personalized station that streams music based on your preferences.
TuneIn Radio connects you to radio stations, not only in your area, but also around the world. You can choose from a wide array of stations that play music in your favorite genre/s. You can also listen to talk shows that tackle various topics; from business to politics to sports.
NPR Music, or National Public Radio, is the app to download if you want to listen to indie music and some mainstream music as well. Keep abreast with the latest happenings through videos, blog posts and podcasts; they also have special and recurring features.
WQXR has been broadcasting from New York for over 70 years and is a part of New York Public Radio. Listeners of classical music will appreciate their line-up of programs as well as their video series and podcasts. For those who prefer more contemporary music, this app offers a radio stream called Q2.
Sky FM has a nice selection of channels to choose from categorized by style and popularity. Find out what other people are listening to by clicking the Community tab where you can read posts from Facebook and Twitter users. You can also add your favorite channels for easier access. This app is very easy to navigate and has a nicely designed interface. Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later.
AccuRadio is probably one of the most straight-forward music app I've downloaded to date. Channels are arranged by genre, from Adult Alternative to World Music. It also has a special channel called mymvy, where you can listen to music you don't usually hear over traditional radio stations and discover artists you may not be familiar with. Info about the song is displayed while you listen to it. You can also check out the lineup of artists for each channel and pause, play or forward the track list. You can further personalize your listening experience by choosing the artists you'd like to hear. Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Requires iOS 3.1.3 or later.
Songza requires you to sign-up the first time you use it. You can sign-up by connecting the app to your Facebook account or by using your email. A great feature is how the channels are arranged; by genre, activity (i.e. barbecuing), mood (i.e. introspective), decade, culture, and record-store clerk which culls interesting music suggestions (i.e. Dance Music That's Not Assaultive). You can play, pause and forward songs; like or dislike tracks and easily add songs to your collection. Searching for an artist or playlist is easy too and you can share your finds via Facebook and Twitter. Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Requires iOS 4.1 or later.
Live365 probably has the largest collection of online radio stations. The very simple interface makes it easy to navigate the various channels listed by genre; you can also check out the recommended stations. You can pause, play, move back and move forward as you listen to a track. You can also share what you're listening to through Facebook, Twitter and email. You can add songs to your preset and inform the DJ whether you like or dislike a particular track. Presets and other added features are available when you register. Going to the Settings menu lets you further customize the app, such as changing the theme color. Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Requires iOS 3.1.3 or later
