I listen to a lot of web radio. The music of my niche downtempo stations washes over me, provides a soundtrack to my life, and tips me off to artists I might want to hear more of.
I am not always aware of how recently music was issued: there’s a mix of retro and current music blended seamlessly by talented DJs, so I haven’t actively pursued ‘keeping up’ with new releases or distinguishing new-to-me music from actually-new-music. But it turns out that I am keeping up a bit, thanks to web radio. (A new colleague recently recommended a station playing 1980s-1990s music, and I told him I’m trying to focus on music released after 2010 now, which just made him laugh.)
I went into my phone’s music app to look at what they deem new & popular (selling well). I was shocked that I recognize and enjoy some of the songs.
How did that even happen? I think Antennae Bayern – Chillout (https://www.antenne.de/webradio/chillout) has worked many of these songs into my head without me noticing.
Here are three that I was surprised to recognize (and have purchased).
Hozier: Too Sweet (from the 2024 album, “Unheard”)
There is something about the simplicity of the guitar lines that hooks me. It’s a very satisfying song. (Also: do not date the protagonist of this song: he will always be hung over, will criticize your delicious green juice, and you’ll have to drive him to too many medical appointments later in life.)
Teddy Swims: the Door (from the 2023 album, “I’ve Tried Everything by Therapy, Pt. 1”)
Gospel-ly, danceable, singable in the shower. I could not have guessed his appearance (friendly neighborhood bear with even more tattoos). Lose Control from last year is also familiar to me.
Myles Smith: Stargazing (Take My Heart Don’t Break It) (2024)
Upbeat and cheerful.
It is so encouraging to listen to music that is enjoyable to me and succeeding – despite the fact that I like it!