Music: Getting Started

In case you're just breaking into the music world, are looking for something new to listen to or are a grizzled music vet, here's some of my tips on what you should do to get started.

1) Find what interests you.

We all like some band or another who does a fast paced tempo with a mesh of epic power chords, pick tapping and what not, but others of us may just like to haer some simple acoustic strumming or maybe even electronic beats being made. It doesn't matter WHAT you listen to as long as it's something YOU want to listen to. If you're the person who lives a fast paced lifestyle, maybe Metal and Techno/Trance would be good for you, but i could be completely wrong and you like classical, it's whatever suits you best.

2) Don't limit yourself to the local radio.

Local radio only plays what is popular or favored. It's generally not the best place to find music unless you like hearing Ke$ha, GaGa, T-Pain, Akon, Kanye West or whoever suits you, it's generally not the best place for you to find something "new" to listen to, unless the DJ says it's a new artist, those come few and far between. 

3) WTF is an MTV?

Yes, i did say MTV. It's shocking that from the late '80's to now, "Music" Television went from music videos to reality shows about someone's big birthday party or whatever. If you're really going to get started in music, avoid this channel at all costs, it's very rare you find music that is new on here if any because they'll play what's popular.

4) Lo....Local Bands?

It's not going to be very hard to find a local band in your area. Ask around your school, your music stores and maybe the teachers. Most importantly you'd want to ask your friends if they're starting a band or doing a show, go to it, promote them to your friends and maybe you'd like what you hear.

5) Friends!

Ask your friends what they listen to, Maybe someone will tell you a musician who isn't in the mainstream, or maybe there will be some young up-and coming band you wouldn't know.

6) Who are these guys again?

Maybe you're in high school or college, and are remembering who you listened to in middle school or elementary and you liked them then, give them a spin again and see if you still are into that type of music.

7)Last. Fm

You like pop music but tired of the same musicians? You like Metal but you need something that gives an extra kick to it? use Last. FM. A hell of a lot of bands you've probably never heard of are on there as well as some classic bands too. type in a genre of music or a band name, and just let the music flow.

8) Oldies are still goodies

If you're still having trouble listening to the "young people music" don't be afraid to see what your mom and dad may or may not have been listening to from the 50's, 60's 70's or even the 80's(Well maybe not the 50's for your parents but probably your grandparents). Quite a bit of our bands that we listen to now-a-days are honoring some of the people who have paved the way for the bands of Today. If you'll take the effort to look for bands from that Era, you will be rewarded with some pretty awesome music.

Maybe these tips will help you to get started on what type of music you'll want to listen to if you want to expand your taste or keep going into the same genre you've been listening to for however long. just enjoy the music.

These tips may or may not help you to get started with your music selection or if you're looking for something completely new that'll help you too. Just be prepared to find new bands you'll come to know and love.