How to Break Free of Spotify’s Algorithm

Music streaming services, such as Spotify, offer personalized playlists driven by algorithms that limit musical discovery to familiar sounds. This convenience comes at the cost of serendipitous discovery, which was once a more active and social process. Alternatives are emerging, including online communities and independent radio, that prioritize human curation and interaction to foster more diverse and engaging musical experiences. These initiatives emphasize community-based recommendations and the narrative aspects of music, contrasting sharply with the algorithmic optimization of major streaming platforms. Ultimately, a balance between algorithmic assistance and human curation is suggested to enrich the music listening experience.