The Algorithm is Killing Music Discovery

Ava Peters  

Music Journalist  

Recently, I’ve been feeling like all the music I listen to has been force-fed to me by algorithms. Discovering music seems harder to me than ever, when it is technically easier.   

Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and TikTok give us access to thousands of albums and songs constantly. More music than any record store ever could. However, it feels forced. The same artists appear, and the same songs trend. Similar music is being suggested for everyone.  

So how do you go about finding music organically?  

Purchasing physical media  

Although this does involve a certain amount of commitment to spending money, it’s the most obvious way to break away from the algorithm. There are cheaper ways to discover music this way, like checking CDs out from the library (if they still offer this as an option), or borrowing from a friend. Or even purchasing digital downloads of songs. Thrift stores, library book sales, and used media shops typically have heavily discounted used CD’s and vinyl.  

Buying music from stores instead of platforms, nothing is tailored to you. Owning music also changes how you engage with it. You’re more likely to listen to a full album and give it time because you invested in it.  

I also love buying new CDs from artists as soon as they drop and getting the signed versions. It adds more connection to the artist and the album. 

Know your label 

I sign up for release emails from my favorite artists, and I’ve recently also been signing up for new release emails from labels — if you find a current artist you’re into, get on their label’s mailing list.  

It can be fun, committing, and rooting for a certain label.  

Letting other people be the algorithm 

I still use Spotify; I cannot confidently get rid of it. Instead of looking at my “For You” and “Daily Mix.”  I have made a point to ask the people in my life about what they are listening to. This is the way music discovery worked before the internet. Trading playlists with my friends. Realizing that my friend and I have been listening to the same thing is so fun! It allows you to grow a deeper friendship with them. 

 Reading interviews with artists where musicians point you to new music, paying deeper attention to what plays in places you go, such as cafes, live shows, and the grocery store. Sign up for newsletters from music writers you enjoy. These sources are imperfect, and you won’t enjoy everything they suggest to you. This is what makes them valuable, and it’s what broadens your taste.  

Indulge in music websites  

Another way I have been trying to break out of the algorithm is by switching to music-focused websites such as Album of the Year and Bandcamp. They offer a completely different way of discovery. It feels more intentional.  

You can actively explore, read reviews, and see how people are actually engaging with music rather than just consuming it. Reading how someone loves or dislikes an album before you hear it adds curiosity.  

Album of the Year gives you a broader perspective. You can see how albums are being received critically and by listeners, compare opinions, and explore genres.  

What these different methods do, most importantly, is that they slow you down. They require you to choose what to listen to instead of passively listening to what’s given to you.