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Background music systems, radio, YouTube: how consumers discover new music

Radio is the most popular way consumers discover new music, according to a new study. A survey by market research company Nielsen found that 48 per cent of music fans in the United States found new songs and artists via radio stations, while seven per cent went to YouTube for their search for tracks. 10 per cent came across previously unheard artists via recommendations from their friends.

The report, which questioned 3,000 online consumers, highlighted the increasing number of mediums used by listeners to discover new songs. 53 per cent of teenagers used iTunes to hear new tracks, while 54 per cent of all respondents said they would be more likely to buy music if a friend recommended it to them. Music, chat rooms and social networks were also listed as channels consumers used to find music.

Speaking about the survey, David Bakul, senior manager at Nielsen, commented:

“While younger listeners opt for technologically advanced methods, traditional methods of discovery like radio and word-of-mouth continue to be strong drivers. With so many ways to purchase, consume and discover great new music it’s no wonder that the consumer continues to access and enjoy music in greater numbers.”

At Soundnet, we’ve also seen that our background music systems are used by consumers to find new music. Pub, restaurant and bar patrons often discover tracks and artists through the background music in their favourite venue. Indeed, new statistics from music-discovery service Shazam revealed that over five billion songs had been discovered by the application. The app identifies songs played on background music systems, television and radio stations.

Contact one of the Soundnet team and discover what new music your customers could soon be discovering with our background music systems.

Tagged in: Pub Background Music