Have you ever called into an internet show or live stream? What about a radio show?There’s something about those live, unfiltered conversations that today’s podcasts and algorithm-driven playlists simply can’t replicate. Internet shows and podcasts seem to exist in their own bubbles, always on the brink of bursting with the slightest external pressure. The spontaneity, the thrill of discovery—these elements are being lost in a world increasingly dominated by scripted narratives and commercial agendas.
The true treasure hunt for music is more than just finding the next hit track. It's about community, thinking on your feet, and embracing a culture that isn’t pre-packaged for mass consumption. Let’s be real—it’s not just about the music that’s promoted for political or monetary gain; it's about the music and culture that gets actively suppressed for the very same reasons. And sometimes, a few good songs can change the game overnight.
Remember, the public didn’t want Jimi Hendrix. He wasn’t initially embraced; he was too raw, too different, too ahead of his time or maybe just a little loud for the mainstay music intellectuals that thought Country Rock was the peak of culture at the time. But it’s precisely that rejection that ultimately fueled his genius. The gatekeepers of the time didn’t see the value in what he was doing—just like today, where algorithms and curated playlists suppress the unexpected, the unpolished, the revolutionary. But once people heard him, they couldn’t unhear the raw, unfiltered talent. The same goes for today’s underground scenes—sometimes, the music that challenges the status quo is the very thing we need most. The gatekeepers of today are the great digital manipulators of data and purveyors of content, they have the unchecked ability to "make or unmake" or censor vs. promote who they will. Hence, the technology of our phones and tablets shapes how we speak to each other, share news, and is determining how culture and entertainment evolves.
In a world obsessed with screens, it’s more important than ever to have memorable conversations. Personally, I’ve scaled back my use of mainstream apps to curb that instinctual reach for social media. This small act of resistance has helped me stay present, reconnecting with the music and conversations around me. Remember, the middlemen of technology platforms make full use of the intricately detailed profile it has fashinoed about you and your life.
Our phones plug into that manipulation machines of large companies, that rent your data to any corporation or person that wants you to buy a particular thing or vote a particular way or become a fan of particular cultural entity. Some have grown weary of these routine predations, based on what we say near our phones, stare at or listen to for a few seconds - these business models can feel like they are designed to engage in automated mass extortion.
This is why I'm balancing my media diet with independent platforms. If you’re tired of big-tech spoon-feeding you the same recycled content disguised-playlists, take a detour. Dive into free-form with organizations such as WFMU, where the DJs are driven by passion, not algorithms. It’s like wandering into a secret record shop where every track is a door to another world. Or explore SoundCloud, Alternative Tentacles, and Mixcloud, where the real crate-diggers and tastemakers reside. For me, mixcloud is a goldmine for rare sets - for example I found a DJ that is influenced by Japanese record labels that have been quietly preserving American soul, jazz, and funk from the 50s to 70s. The 45s from these labels are the result of a small record company that continues to scour the U.S. for forgotten vinyl treasures, reissuing tracks that the algorithms would never surface.
Ultimately, it’s not just about discovering new songs; it’s about reclaiming the thrill of music as a form of rebellion and self-expression. True music discovery is unscripted, unpredictable, and often messy—and that’s precisely where the magic lies. It's about rejecting the sanitized, pre-packaged culture that’s sold to us and embracing the raw, authentic, and sometimes uncomfortable sounds that truly move us. Yes, sometimes there is a pop, a hiss, or a drummer hits the side of drum - but if you hear it, it means you are actually listening to the music.
The best tracks aren’t just sounds—they’re capable of sparking change and turning the world on its head. Because sometimes, all it takes is a few good songs to rewrite the rules.
Here are few reasons to break from the entertainment monopolies:
1. Engage in Conversations That Go Beyond the Surface
Instead of discussing the latest viral Netflix series or trending TikTok sound (which everyone else is talking about), bring up a lesser-known artist, DJ mix, or underground music platform. Sharing your passion for discovering music beyond the mainstream shows that you’re curious, open-minded, and not just echoing popular opinions. This positions you as someone who appreciates depth and originality, making you more memorable in a sea of surface-level small talk.
2. Stand Out as a Thought Leader
In professional settings, referencing eclectic music discoveries can highlight your ability to think outside the box. It suggests that you’re not just relying on what’s spoon-fed by algorithms, whether in music or in business strategies. This mindset positions you as a leader who values authenticity and independent thinking, making you a great collaborator for creative or disruptive projects.
3. Create Deeper Connections with Colleagues and Clients
If you’re networking at a conference or meeting new clients, discussing niche music scenes or rare tracks can be a refreshing change from typical business talk. It also invites people to share their own passions, making the interaction more genuine and engaging. I have had people email me after conferences to learn about the artists that are related in some way to what they listen to. It is fun to open up the world to a person's The passion. It shows you’re thoughtful and pay attention to people’s interests, which builds rapport and can lead to stronger relationships.