Since December 2024 I have deleted Spotify, and don't use any other streaming subscription services. This is because I think artists should be fairly compensated for their work. This is what I've been listening to instead:
Radio
Seeing as it's the 20s again, I figure radio should have a resurgence (though I've been listening my whole life). This is now how I consume 90% of my music.
I listen to a mix of BBC and internet/independent radio stations. BBC Radio 6 music is my station of choice all the time, and I listen to BBC Radio 3 unwind, which only plays relaxed ambient music (and instrumental piano all afternoon) when I'm trying to concentrate/work during the day.
The only issue with BBC radio (6) is that they play the news every hour on the half hour, and on the hour at 07:00, 08:00 and a few other times. I don't enjoy listening to the news, since it's really horrid and unhelpful -- I get my news and engage with politics in other, more deliberate and active ways. I'll talk about how I solved this p
Bandcamp
Live radio shows
There's something weirdly charming about tuning in to catch a radio show, knowing it isn't saved and that this is your only chance to hear it. It's exciting!! Always listen with a piece of paper to hand to jot down tracks you like for further listening, because once it's gone it's gone.