As 2026 nears, many are reflecting on their music streaming habits, particularly those using Spotify. The past year has seen artists boycott Spotify events over unfair compensation, and some, like King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, have left the platform due to CEO Daniel Ek’s investments in an AI military drone company.
Additionally, AI-generated music has appeared on the Billboard charts, and ICE recruitment ads have surfaced on Spotify and other platforms.
There’s a growing sense that music listening has become automated and lacking in passion. Even highly anticipated albums seem to fade quickly, and the joy of discovering and sharing music feels more like a task for algorithms.
However, there’s a resurgence in physical media, driven by younger audiences seeking a more intentional music experience. Across the internet, musicians, DJs, and radio hosts are providing personal, human-centric listening experiences.
For those looking to expand their music options in the new year, here are some platforms to explore:
Campus FM
Launched by Eric Lee in 2022, Campus FM offers access to college radio stations, known for spotting new music trends. Users can program up to 10 stations, with favorites like WXYC at the University of North Carolina and KVRX at the University of Texas.
Vintage Obscura Radio
An offshoot of the Vintage Obscura subreddit, this platform highlights lesser-known records. It features a livestream and a playlist of recently played songs, focusing on music from before the 21st century with limited views on YouTube.
YouTube
KCHUNG Radio
Founded in 2011, KCHUNG is an artist-run co-op in Los Angeles, offering a mix of music, art reviews, interviews, and discussions on social justice and politics.
Radio Nopal
This Mexico City-based station promotes music from Mexico and Latin America. Co-founder Diego Aguirre Fernández developed an open-source transmitter to help others start radio communities.
N10.AS
Operating from Montreal, N10.AS features a Y2K-inspired homepage and a diverse range of music, from techno to pop. It was founded in 2016 by students from Concordia University and Sebastian Cowan.
N10.AS Radio’s website features design elements reminiscent of early internet sites.
N10.AS Radio
N10.AS Radio
Radio Garden
Radio Garden, an Amsterdam-based app and platform, offers access to over 40,000 radio stations worldwide. Users can explore stations from various locations, making music discovery feel adventurous.
Radiooooo
A Paris-based platform, Radiooooo allows users to explore music from different parts of the world. It encourages submissions from underrepresented regions and time periods, though some features require a premium account.
Radio Alhara
Broadcasting from Bethlehem since 2020, Radio Alhara shares music and culture from the region, along with local journalism and political messages. Founded by Yousef and Elias Anastas, it offers a simple interface inspired by architecture.
YouTube
NTS Radio
Based in London, NTS Radio offers a diverse listening experience with about 40% of its content unavailable on Spotify. It features a wide range of shows hosted by DJs globally, including big names like Oklou and Sudan Archives.
Lookout.FM
Located in Southern California, Lookout.FM broadcasts “transmission art,” including experimental audio projects and sound art. It’s a platform for those seeking active, thoughtful listening experiences.
KPISS
Founded by New York DJ Sheri Barclay in 2015, KPISS is an online station known as “the AM radio of the internet.” It offers a cozy mix of jazz, pop, and rock, operating from various unique locations in Brooklyn.
dublab
Established in 1990, dublab is a pioneering LA-based internet radio station with over 180 shows. Its early broadcasts are archived by the Smithsonian, and it continues to inspire other platforms.
