SoundCloud
If you are tired of listening to mainstream and/or commercial music, give SoundCloud a try. Not only are some mainstream songs available for listening, but the platform is dominated by upcoming and underground artists/musicians. You also get a chance to listen to songs by not-so-well-known artists before they become a big hit!
Compatibility: Android and iOS.
Cost: Free.
Apple Music
With a vast library of over 30 million songs, Apple Music offers music streaming to subscribers. You have the option to create playlists and discover new songs under the 'For You' section that compiles recommendations from what you listen to. You can even stream featured content uploaded by artists and explore curated playlists at will!
Compatibility: Android and iOS.
Cost: R59.99 for one member | R89.99 for up to six members.
YouTube
Offering more than just music videos, this app gives you access to remixes, covers, full albums and classic recordings. You don't actually have to create a personalised playlist, you can search for artists, songs, videos or albums and the app will automatically generate a continuous streaming station for you, personalised through your preferences.
Compatibility: Android and iOS.
Cost: Free.
Tidal
Offering the capability to stream high-fidelity music, Tidal has gained its spot as one of the top music streaming apps due to the incredible sound quality. Featuring a library with over 25 million songs, you can even watch over 75 000 ad-free videos. What's more, you also get curated lists, music identification and music-discovering tools.
Compatibility: Android and iOS.
Cost: R139.99.
Spotify
Thanks to its recognisable interface, Facebook integration and over 30 million songs, Spotify has also earned itself a spot in this list of top music streaming apps. Not only is it great online but you also get access to some music, which is available for offline listening. The app now has a browse function that allows you to find cool playlists!
Compatibility: Android, iOS and Windows Phone.
Cost: R139.99.
Prime Music
Prime Music, which falls under the Amazon Prime umbrella, allows you to stream music you have bought from Amazon. You can also stream music stored on your phone or tablet. If you are a Prime subscriber, you get access to over a million songs and playlists, all ad-free. You can also download your favourite songs or albums and listen offline!
Compatibility: Android and iOS.
Cost: R139.99.
Google Play Music
With over 30 million songs, ad-free songs of different genres and artists to stream from, subscribers absolutely love Google Play Music. Allowing you to create your own radio station with all your favourite songs and artists, the app is definitely winning in the music-streaming department. The app also features a constantly-improving recommendations option based on your listening habits.
Compatibility: Android and iOS.
Cost: Free.
TuneIn Radio
Giving you access to over 100 000 international radio stations, what more could you possibly ask for music streaming wise? You get access to everything from music and talk shows to sports, news radio and podcasts! Who needs a radio anyway when you have your smartphone or smart device? The best part is that you can even listen to local radio stations!
Compatibility: Android and iOS.
Cost: Free.
Microsoft Groove
Microsoft rebranded Xbox Music to Microsoft Groove with the release of Windows 10. With the app, you get access to over 30 million songs, ad-free, options for custom radio stations, offline listening and cross-device syncing. Not only that, you can also download MP3s onto your OneDrive folder for listening offline or off the grid!
Compatibility: Android, iOS and Windows Phone.
Cost: Free.
Rhapsody
Rhapsody recently refreshed its interface as one of the longest-running, online music streaming providers. The app allows you to create or listen to custom radio stations of your favourite artists. You can also access a number of live radio stations through the new Rhapsody unRadio for a certain fee per month. The app/service is compatible with smart devices, speakers and game consoles.
Compatibility: Android, iOS and Windows Phone.
Cost: R139.99.
Please note that costs may change over time.
By Cleopatra Shava
