It seems like Clear Channel radio stations are everywhere. No matter where you go, you hear the same songs played over and over again, ad nauseam — when they actually play music instead of commercials. I’m no detractor of pop music, but I get tired of hearing the same programming day in, day out.

I tune to the bottom of the FM dial and look for eclectic Internet radio stations like RadioIOAcoustic
. This “earthy, folksy, sophisticated, acoustic… a soothing mix of folk, alt-country, pop, rock, jazz, and blues” (their words, but I have to agree) is certainly an eclectic mix that has something for everyone. Their motto is “your world.your station.no boundaries.” and they live up to it. Many National Public Radio Stations also have varied and interesting music programs. One NPR program that originates at WXPN is David Dye’s World Cafe where you can hear such artists as Dr John, Jamie Cullum, kd lang, and so many others from so many genres, it’s impossible to list them.

If you’re adventurous and dare to go hunting on the ‘Net, you can find stuff like this: CafeExpress. You can find great music by many independent artists here: Indie Music. Do a search on “world music” and you’ll be amazed at what you find.

Re-tune your radio or fire up the streaming audio and explore. There’s a whole world of great music out there — if you dare to listen.