Exploring Music Streaming Services: Why I Chose Deezer and Other Choices

When it comes to music streaming, it's easy to get caught up in the myriad of options available. Whether it's Spotify, Pandora, or another service, each platform offers a unique experience. In this article, we'll delve into why some individuals choose certain streaming services over others, focusing on the experiences of three different users.

Spotify: The First Impression

For many, Spotify is the gateway to the world of music streaming. It was the first app I ever tried, and I found it appealing enough to stick with. Unlike others, I didn't feel the need to actively seek out a different service. I discovered Spotify on my PlayStation 4 (PS4) while playing around, and it quickly became my go-to for gaming sessions and grinding.

One of the things I appreciated about Spotify was the cross-device integration. I downloaded the app to my iPad, but most of the time, I accessed it through my PS4. Despite this, my song list and playlists were seamlessly shared across all my devices. This convenience made it more of a no-brainer to continue using Spotify.

Deezer: The Integrative Choice

My preference leans towards Deezer, particularly because of its seamless integration with my Logitech Duet media player. Although I have Spotify on my device, most of the time, I use it for my kids. Spotify doesn't offer support for streaming to the Duet media player, whereas Deezer does. This is a significant advantage for me, as I can enjoy music uninterrupted across all my audio devices.

Another factor that sets Deezer apart is the extensive library of music available. Before Spotify became more expansive, Deezer provided access to a wide range of lesser-known artists like Pink Floyd. While the music catalogs of both platforms are now nearly identical, Deezer's early support for such artists made it stand out for me.

Personal Preferences and Rants: YouTube and JpopAsia

My personal experience with music streaming isn't always straightforward. I have a varied musical taste that includes K-pop, J-pop, and American pop radio music, with K-pop being my current preference. While I occasionally use music programs to discover new music, my primary desire is to listen to what I want to hear without interference.

Unfortunately, many music programs fall short in meeting these demands. They may have extensive 'genre' coverage, but often include songs that I dislike. Similarly, their algorithm for suggesting 'like' artists often fails to satisfy my taste. For example, I might select a lesser-known artist like Jurassic 5 or Ugly Duckling, only to encounter a significant lack of their music in subsequent playlists.

Another issue I face is the fragmented album and song offerings. For instance, while I might find certain songs from a group like Girls' Generation (G.S.E), other versions or remixes might be missing. These inconsistencies add to the frustration of not finding the music I want to listen to.

The Google Play Music Experience

Google Play Music is one of the services I've consistently used over the years. With an Android phone and tablet, as well as a Google Home device, the cross-device integration is seamless. Unlike some other platforms, I can easily create custom playlists or drag-and-drop albums and songs into a playlist as needed. This flexibility is a significant advantage for me.

However, it's worth mentioning that there are other platforms I've tried and eventually abandoned, including Pandora. While I still occasionally enjoy using music programs to discover new music, my primary focus is on maintaining and listening to my own curated playlists.

In conclusion, the choice of a music streaming service often comes down to personal preferences and specific needs. Whether it's the first app you try, the one that integrates seamlessly with your devices, or the one that offers the music you love, the decision can be highly individualized.