Discover Lesser Known Musical Artists: Strategies and Tools
The digital age has both democratized and complicated music discovery. It's easier than ever to find new, lesser known artists from various genres and countries, but it also means sifting through a vast ocean of music to find the gems. This article explores different strategies and tools to help you find and support independent musicians you'll love.
1. Music Websites and Platforms
Some music websites and platforms are specifically designed to help you discover new and lesser known artists. Services like Pitchfork and NPR celebrate unique and up-and-coming music, whereas sites like Number One Music and ReverbNation cater directly to independent musicians, often providing a space for artists to showcase their work.
ReverbNation, for instance, is a network where artists can share demos, tour dates, and connect with fans. By browsing their home page, you can discover new artists and even follow ones that resonate with you. Another great resource is Pitchfork, which often highlights emerging artists through their editorial coverage and recommendations.
2. Utilizing Social Media and Streaming Platforms
Don't underestimate the power of social media and streaming platforms in discovering new music. Spotify, for example, has a feature called Discover Weekly which provides a personalized playlist of lesser known artists based on your listening history. Similarly, SoundCloud is a treasure trove of independent music, often containing material that hasn't yet reached commercial radio. Shazam, another useful tool, allows you to identify songs you hear while watching TV or anywhere else, which can lead you to new artists from surprising genres.
3. Word of Mouth and Local Venues
Word of mouth and local live venues are essential in finding lesser known artists. Many artists are part of a tight-knit community and are willing to share recommendations with others who share their taste in music. Attending local concerts and listening to what other patrons recommend can often uncover hidden gems.
Don't limit yourself to your immediate area. Planning a road trip to a nearby city and visiting several venues in different neighborhoods can expose you to a diverse range of music and artists. Whether it's a pop-up show in a small bar or a sold-out venue filled with die-hard fans, live music experiences can provide intimate performances and help you connect with artists on a personal level.
For instance, if you're a fan of alternative or indie rock, hopping from venue to venue in a bigger city can yield unexpected musical discoveries. Artists may be playing off-stage gigs that aren't widely advertised, or they might be part of a local scene that buzzes with creativity and innovation.
4. Online Communities and Forums
Forums and online communities can also be a goldmine for finding lesser known artists. Websites like Songkick allow you to discover upcoming shows and new artists in your area. Social media groups and music-related forums often share recommendations and discussions about lesser known talent.
Conclusion
Discovering lesser known artists is a rewarding process that can introduce you to new and exciting musicians from diverse backgrounds. Whether through dedicated music websites like ReverbNation and Pitchfork, leveraging the power of social media and streaming platforms, tapping into word of mouth and live performances, or participating in online communities, there are countless ways to uncover hidden musical treasures. Embrace the journey and support the artists who are shaping the future of music.