Let’s be honest: there’s nothing worse than a classic rock station playing the same 20 songs on a loop. You love the music, but the repetition gets old, fast. The cure for playlist fatigue is finding a station run by true music lovers, not just an algorithm. The best radio station for 60s and 70s music should surprise you, digging deep into album tracks and reintroducing you to forgotten favorites. We’ve found the top 60s and 70s classic rock radio stations (and even some great 60s 70s 80s radio stations) that get it right.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize playlist variety: A great station respects the entire album, mixing iconic hits with the deep cuts and B-sides that true fans appreciate, so you hear more than the same few songs on repeat.
- Find your perfect listening method: Classic rock is accessible everywhere, so explore traditional FM radio, station websites, dedicated mobile apps, and smart speakers to find what works best for you.
- Look for more than just music: The most memorable stations build a community with engaging DJs, artist spotlights, and listener requests that create a deeper, more personal connection to the songs.
The Best Radio Stations for 60s & 70s Classic Rock
Finding a great classic rock station can feel like uncovering a hidden gem in a vintage record store. The right one does more than just play the hits you’ve heard a thousand times; it takes you on a journey through one of music’s most iconic eras. A truly great station mixes the anthems from legends like Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones with the deep cuts and B-sides that only true fans know and love. It’s about creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh, reminding you why this music has stood the test of time.
Whether you’re looking for a station that dives deep into album rock, one that’s perfect for a long drive, or a platform to discover new-to-you classics, there’s a frequency or stream out there for you. We’ve put together a list of the best classic rock radio stations that specialize in the golden age of the 60s and 70s. These stations are curated by people who are passionate about the music and dedicated to delivering an authentic listening experience. So, turn up the volume and get ready to explore some of the best classic rock the airwaves and the internet have to offer, including our very own curated streams right here at rBeatz.
rBeatz Radio: For Discovering Hidden Gems
If you’re looking to connect with the classics while also discovering something new, rBeatz Radio is your perfect destination. We pride ourselves on a diverse and dynamic playlist that honors the giants of 60s and 70s rock. Our streams are designed for true music enthusiasts, blending the chart-topping hits you can’t help but sing along to with lesser-known tracks that deserve a spot in your rotation. Because we are a hub for global artists, our classic rock selection has a unique energy, celebrating the sounds that inspired generations of musicians. It’s the ideal place to rediscover old favorites and find your next obsession, all in one spot.
SiriusXM Classic Vinyl: Hear Full Albums, Not Just Singles
For those who believe the album is a complete work of art, SiriusXM’s Classic Vinyl is essential listening. This premium channel is dedicated to album-oriented rock from the 60s and 70s, moving beyond the singles to play the tracks that make an album whole. It’s a listening experience designed for purists who appreciate the narrative and flow of a full record. You’ll hear the iconic LPs from artists like Pink Floyd, The Who, and Fleetwood Mac played the way they were intended to be heard. It’s a fantastic subscription service for anyone wanting to dive deeper into the music.
KSHE 95 (St. Louis): Go Beyond the Hits with Deep Cuts
A true rock and roll institution, KSHE 95 in St. Louis has been on the air for decades, earning a legendary reputation among classic rock fans. What sets KSHE apart is its commitment to deep playlists. The station is known for digging into artist catalogs to play a wide variety of tracks, ensuring you won’t just hear the same 40 songs on a loop. Listeners love KSHE for its dedication to showcasing both massive hits and incredible hidden gems. It’s a station with a rich history that continues to deliver an authentic and varied classic rock sound for its loyal audience.
WNEW.FM 102.7: The Original Free Form Rock Station
Emerging from the vibrant music scene of the late 1960s, WNEW.FM 102.7 became a legendary name in rock radio for its revolutionary “free form” style. This approach gave DJs the creative freedom to curate their own playlists, moving beyond just the chart-toppers to showcase a wide spectrum of tracks. Instead of a rigid, pre-programmed list, listeners were treated to a more personal and eclectic mix that reflected the DJ’s passion and expertise. This commitment to variety made it one of the most respected classic rock stations of its time, creating a listening experience that felt authentic and unpredictable. While the original station is a piece of history, its legacy inspires many who seek a more diverse listening experience.
WXYG The Goat: For True Deep Cuts
If you’re the kind of fan who knows every track on an album, not just the singles, then WXYG The Goat is for you. Based in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, this station has built a reputation for its dedication to playing “deep cuts.” This means you’re more likely to hear hidden gems from bands like Wishbone Ash or Spooky Tooth than the same mainstream hits you’ve heard a million times. It’s a station curated for the true music aficionado who appreciates the lesser-known B-sides and album tracks that often get overlooked. Tuning into The Goat feels like listening to a mixtape made by your most knowledgeable classic rock friend, always ready to surprise you with something you haven’t heard in ages.
KWUZ Hippie Radio 97.5: Independent Colorado Rock
Nestled in Salida, Colorado, KWUZ Hippie Radio 97.5 is a fiercely independent station that embodies the free spirit of classic rock. It prides itself on an eclectic mix that goes far beyond a standard playlist, blending deep cuts with beloved classics. What makes this station truly special is its unique programming, featuring shows like “Breakfast with the Beatles” and rebroadcasts of classic “American Top 40” episodes with the legendary Casey Kasem. This blend of music and nostalgia creates a distinct personality that you just can’t find on corporate radio. It’s a perfect example of how a local, independent station can build a community around a shared love for great music.
102.5 KZOK: Seattle’s Classic Rock
As Seattle’s classic rock authority, 102.5 KZOK has earned a loyal following for consistently delivering a high-quality listening experience. The station strikes a perfect balance, mixing the anthems that defined a generation with deeper tracks that keep the playlist feeling fresh and engaging. It’s a reliable go-to for anyone in the Seattle area who wants a station that respects the genre and its listeners. KZOK proves that a major market station can still have a great playlist that feels curated and thoughtful. For fans who appreciate both the hits and the hidden gems, tuning into KZOK is always a solid choice for a dose of pure classic rock.
WCSX (Detroit): Hear Detroit’s Rock Legacy
Broadcasting from the heart of the Motor City, WCSX 94.7 FM is pure Detroit rock and roll. The station’s identity is deeply connected to the city’s hardworking, music-loving roots, and its playlist reflects that. WCSX delivers a powerful mix of timeless hits from artists like Bob Seger, Alice Cooper, and Ted Nugent, alongside the foundational tracks of the 60s and 70s. It’s the quintessential voice of classic rock in a city that helped define the genre. Tuning into WCSX feels like tapping into the raw, unfiltered energy of one of America’s greatest music cities.
WDRV 97.1 FM (Chicago): Your Perfect Driving Soundtrack
Known as “The Drive,” Chicago’s WDRV 97.1 FM has perfected the art of the driving playlist. This station provides the ultimate soundtrack for hitting the open road, your daily commute, or just a weekend cruise. The song selection is expertly curated to create a feeling of freedom and momentum, featuring artists like Tom Petty, The Eagles, and Bruce Springsteen. It’s more than just a collection of songs; it’s a carefully crafted experience that makes you want to roll down the windows and turn the volume up. For rock lovers on the move, The Drive is a go-to choice.
Radio Paradise: Enjoy Commercial-Free, Listener-Curated Rock
If you’re tired of constant ad breaks, Radio Paradise offers a refreshing alternative. This listener-supported streaming service is completely commercial-free, allowing the music to flow without interruption. While not strictly a classic rock station, its eclectic mix is heavily rooted in the genre, blending iconic tracks from the 60s and 70s with modern indie, folk, and world music. The result is a beautifully curated stream that’s perfect for music discovery. Radio Paradise is run by a husband-and-wife team, giving it a personal, human touch that you won’t find on algorithm-driven platforms.
AccuRadio’s 60s/70s Lite Hits: Build Your Perfect Playlist
For moments when you want the classic rock sound with a more laid-back feel, AccuRadio’s “1960s & 70s Lite Hits” channel is a perfect choice. This free, curated stream focuses on the softer side of the era, featuring early adult contemporary classics from artists like Carole King, James Taylor, and America. It’s ideal for background listening while you work or relax. One of the best features of AccuRadio is the ability to skip songs, helping you create a personalized vibe that perfectly matches your mood without being too overpowering.
Over 1,400 Channels to Explore
AccuRadio’s biggest strength is its massive library. With over 1,400 channels, it’s a true playground for anyone who loves to explore different genres and eras. While you might come for the classic rock, you can easily find yourself stumbling upon niche channels dedicated to everything from 70s funk to obscure psychedelic rock. This extensive selection ensures you can always find the right music for your mood, whether you’re working, relaxing, or hosting a get-together. It’s this commitment to variety that makes it a fantastic tool for music discovery, allowing you to explore a world of sound that goes far beyond a standard radio dial and helps you build a more diverse musical palate.
Customize Your Listening with Blends and Bans
One of the most frustrating parts of traditional radio is having no control over the playlist. AccuRadio solves this by putting you in the driver’s seat. If a song or artist comes on that you’re just not feeling, you can ban them from that channel forever. This simple feature is a game-changer, letting you fine-tune your stations until they’re a perfect reflection of your taste. You can also skip as many songs as you want, so you’re never stuck listening to something you don’t enjoy. It’s a level of personalization that helps you create a listening experience that feels uniquely yours, turning a passive activity into an interactive one.
Featured Artists and Related Channels
AccuRadio does more than just play songs; it helps you connect with the music on a deeper level. Many channels highlight featured artists, offering a focused look into their catalog and influence. This is a great way to learn more about the musicians behind your favorite tracks and understand their impact on the genre. The platform also suggests related channels, making it easy to find new streams based on what you already love. This thoughtful approach to curation is perfect for anyone who enjoys the journey of music discovery, as it constantly provides new paths to find artists and sounds that resonate with your personal style.
ROCKRADIO.COM: Find Your Favorite Rock Decade
If you want to immerse yourself completely in the transformative sounds of the 1960s, ROCKRADIO.COM has you covered. Their dedicated 60s Rock channel focuses exclusively on the music of that decade, from the British Invasion and Motown-influenced rock to the psychedelic sounds of the late 60s. It’s a fantastic resource for anyone who wants a deep, focused listening experience without the 70s arena rock that often dominates classic rock stations. This specialized stream is perfect for exploring the decade that started it all.
iHeart Classic Rock: Tune In From Anywhere in the US
As one of the biggest names in radio, iHeart offers a reliable and easily accessible classic rock station for listeners across the country. The iHeart Classic Rock channel delivers a steady stream of hits from the genre’s most celebrated artists. Beyond the live radio feed, the platform also provides a wealth of content, including artist-specific playlists and podcasts that tell the stories behind the music. It’s a great all-in-one option for anyone looking for a straightforward and high-quality classic rock experience from a trusted nationwide provider.
Live On-Air Personalities
One of the best parts of traditional radio is the connection you feel with the on-air hosts, and iHeart brings that experience to its digital platform. Their classic rock station features live personalities who guide you through the music, sharing stories and adding a human touch that you just don’t get from an algorithm. You can tune in to hear hosts like Doc Reno, Gunner, and Maria Milito, who bring their passion for rock to the airwaves every day. This approach makes listening feel more like a shared experience, creating a sense of community around the music you love and making the station feel alive and dynamic.
Exclusive Classic Rock Podcasts
If you want to go beyond the music and explore the stories behind the legends, iHeart offers a solid lineup of exclusive podcasts. You can catch highlights from the ‘Jim Kerr Rock & Roll Morning Show’ or explore the cultural impact of The Beatles with ‘Ken Dashow’s Beatles Revolution.’ These shows provide a deeper context, helping you appreciate the artists and their work on a new level. For music fans who love to learn, these podcasts are a great companion to the live stream. And if you’re always on the hunt for more audio stories, you can also explore the diverse collection of rBeatz podcasts, covering artists and scenes from around the globe.
Curated Playlists for Every Mood
Sometimes you need a specific soundtrack for a specific moment, and iHeart’s curated playlists deliver just that. The platform offers a variety of classic rock playlists designed for different activities and moods. If you just want the essentials, the ‘Classic Rock Mix’ has all the biggest hits in one place. Need some motivation for the gym? The ‘Classic Rock Workout’ playlist features high-energy tracks from artists like Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix to get you moving. This feature allows you to easily find the right vibe without having to build a playlist from scratch, making it a convenient way to enjoy classic rock anytime.
What Makes a Great Classic Rock Station?
Finding a classic rock station that truly gets it can feel like discovering a hidden track on your favorite vinyl. It’s about more than just playing the hits. The best stations create an experience that transports you back to the golden age of rock and roll. They understand the music, the artists, and the culture that made this era so iconic. From the DJ’s commentary to the carefully crafted playlists, every element works together to honor the legacy of rock. So, what are the key ingredients that separate a good classic rock station from a truly great one? Let’s get into the specifics.
Focusing on the Authentic 60s & 70s Sound
A great classic rock station knows its sweet spot: the late 1960s and 1970s. This isn’t your parents’ oldies station playing doo-wop. The classic rock format is defined by a harder, guitar-driven edge that captures the revolutionary spirit of the time. Think Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. The sound is raw, authentic, and built on powerful riffs and unforgettable melodies. A top-tier station curates its library to reflect this specific sound, ensuring every song feels like it belongs. It’s a celebration of the era when rock music wasn’t just a genre, it was a movement.
Playlists That Go Beyond the Greatest Hits
We all love “Stairway to Heaven,” but hearing it for the tenth time in a week can get old. The best stations know that true fans appreciate the deep cuts just as much as the chart-toppers. They dig into the archives to play those lesser-known album tracks that dedicated listeners cherish. Crafting these playlists takes real effort and a deep understanding of their audience. Stations often use extensive market research to go beyond the obvious choices, creating a listening experience that’s full of pleasant surprises. This commitment to variety keeps the music fresh and proves the station is run by genuine rock aficionados.
Knowledgeable DJs Who Share the Stories
In an age of automated playlists, a knowledgeable and passionate DJ makes all the difference. A great host is more than just a voice introducing songs; they’re a storyteller who shares fascinating trivia, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and historical context that brings the music to life. They can tell you about the recording session for The Dark Side of the Moon or the inspiration behind a classic lyric. This human element creates a personal connection and a richer listening experience. Stations with a world-class airstaff, like our own DJ WORLD BEATZ, understand that a great DJ turns passive listening into an active, engaging journey through rock history.
Playing Full Albums, Not Just Singles
Classic rock was born in the era of the album, when artists crafted cohesive, full-length statements, not just a collection of singles. The best stations honor this by taking an album-oriented rock approach. This means they don’t just play the big hit; they’ll play other tracks from the same record, respecting the artist’s complete vision. This approach celebrates the artistry of iconic albums like The Who’s Who’s Next or Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours. By focusing on album-oriented rock, a station shows a deeper appreciation for the music and gives listeners a more authentic taste of the era when the album was king.
Themed Shows That Keep Things Fresh
To keep things exciting, top classic rock stations go beyond their daily playlists with creative special programming. This could be anything from an “A to Z” weekend where they play every artist in their library alphabetically, to a deep dive into a single artist’s entire catalog. Themed shows, anniversary specials for legendary albums, and listener-voted countdowns all make for compelling radio. These events give listeners a reason to tune in and stay engaged. It shows that the station is actively curating a unique experience, not just hitting “shuffle.” At rBeatz, we feature a variety of shows and partners to bring that same curated, special-event feel to our listeners.
Putting Listeners and Their Requests First
A great classic rock station feels like a club for people who share a passion for the music. It builds a community by interacting with its audience through listener requests, call-in segments, and contests. This two-way communication makes listeners feel heard and valued, turning them from a passive audience into an active part of the station’s identity. The enduring popularity of classic rock is fueled by this sense of shared nostalgia and connection. When a station fosters this community spirit, it creates a loyal following that will stick around for years to come. It’s about celebrating the music together.
Catering to a Broader Time Frame
While the heart and soul of classic rock live in the 60s and 70s, the most compelling stations understand that music doesn’t exist in a vacuum. They enrich the listening experience by occasionally stretching the timeline to provide context. A knowledgeable DJ might play a 50s blues track that inspired a famous Led Zeppelin riff or feature a song from a classic artist’s 80s solo career, showing their evolution. This isn’t about watering down the format; it’s about telling a more complete story. By including deep cuts and B-sides from an artist’s entire catalog, a station shows respect for their full journey. It’s a philosophy that helps listeners discover artists and connect the dots between foundational classics and the global musicians they influence today.
How Can You Tune In?
Finding your perfect classic rock station is easier than ever, whether you’re a fan of old-school radio or you prefer streaming on your devices. Here are a few simple ways to get your daily dose of 60s and 70s rock.
Tuning In on Your FM Radio Dial
There’s a certain magic to turning the dial and finding a great song on a traditional FM radio. If you’re in the car or listening at home, you can often find a dedicated classic rock station in your area. Listeners frequently recommend stations like KSHE 95 in St. Louis and WCSX 94.7 FM in Detroit for their incredible playlists that go beyond the greatest hits. A quick scan of your local FM band is a great way to discover a new favorite and connect with DJs who live and breathe the music.
Streaming Live from Station Websites
For those listening on a computer, most major radio stations now offer a live stream directly on their websites. You can also use dedicated streaming platforms to find curated channels. For example, AccuRadio has a fantastic station called “1960s & ’70s Lite Hits” that’s perfect for a laid-back vibe. These platforms give you access to a huge variety of classic rock styles from anywhere in the world, so you’re never without a great soundtrack for your day.
Listening On-the-Go with Mobile Apps
If you’re always on the move, a mobile app is your best friend for listening to classic rock. Many services offer dedicated apps that put thousands of stations right in your pocket. An app like Rock Oldies Music is designed specifically for fans of 50s, 60s, and 70s rock and roll, offering a simple way to stream classic hits. You can download it for Android or find similar options for iOS, making it easy to take the music with you wherever you go.
Just Ask: Using Your Smart Speaker
Smart speakers have made listening to music at home completely effortless. You can simply ask your device to play the classic rock you love without lifting a finger. Services like AccuRadio are compatible with devices like Alexa and Sonos, so all you have to do is say, “Alexa, play classic rock.” This hands-free approach is perfect for when you’re cooking, cleaning, or just relaxing on the couch. It’s a simple way to fill your home with the sounds of your favorite artists.
Streaming with Services like Spotify
Of course, we can’t talk about streaming without mentioning the big players like Spotify. While it might not have the live DJ feel of traditional radio, Spotify gives you incredible control over your listening experience. You can explore vast libraries of classic rock, from the biggest hits to obscure B-sides. The platform’s curated playlists, like “Classic Rock Drive,” often mix iconic tracks with deep cuts, helping you discover something new within your favorite genre. Plus, you have the freedom to listen to entire albums from start to finish, preserving the artist’s original vision—a must for any true fan of album-oriented rock. With a premium subscription, you can enjoy it all without any commercial interruptions.
rBeatz: Your All-in-One Classic Rock App
For the most seamless experience, the rBeatz app brings all your classic rock needs into one place. Instead of jumping between different apps and websites, you can explore a variety of curated stations and discover new tracks from the 60s and 70s. We designed our app to be a hub for music lovers, making it simple to find exactly what you want to hear. Download the rBeatz app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to start listening today.
Must-Have Features for Classic Rock Fans
The best classic rock stations do more than just play the hits. They create an entire experience that pulls you in and makes you feel connected to the music and a larger community of fans. It’s about the personality of the DJs, the thrill of hearing a deep cut you haven’t heard in years, and the stories that bring these timeless songs to life.
A great station understands that classic rock isn’t just a genre; it’s a culture built on legendary artists and iconic albums. From engaging morning shows that start your day right to special programming that dives deep into music history, these features are what separate a good station from a truly great one. They build a loyal audience by consistently delivering content that is as memorable and authentic as the music itself.
Shows That Make Your Commute Better
There’s something special about a morning or afternoon drive show that feels like you’re listening to a friend. The best hosts are more than just voices; they’re passionate music experts who share interesting trivia, connect with listeners, and have a great sense of humor. They create a dependable and entertaining routine for your commute, mixing killer tracks with daily features that keep things fresh. A world-class airstaff makes the station a destination, not just a preset. This daily connection is what builds a loyal community and keeps you tuning in day after day, whether you’re heading to work or just cruising around town.
Weekend Specials and Artist Spotlights
While everyone loves hearing the big hits from Led Zeppelin or The Rolling Stones, true fans appreciate a station that isn’t afraid to dig deeper. Weekend programming is the perfect time for this. Themed shows, like an “A to Z” artist feature or a block dedicated to a specific year, give you a chance to explore the full catalog of your favorite bands. These deep dives are where you’ll discover B-sides, album-only tracks, and other hidden gems you might have missed. It’s this commitment to showcasing the full spectrum of an artist’s work that makes for a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Sharing the Stories Behind the Music
Classic rock is defined by its powerful melodies and lyrics with real substance. The songs we love often have incredible stories behind them, and a great DJ knows how to share those tales. Learning about the inspiration behind a famous riff, the real-life event that sparked a lyric, or a wild story from the recording studio adds a whole new layer of appreciation to the music. It transforms passive listening into an active discovery, connecting you more deeply with the artists and the era. These moments of storytelling make the music feel more personal and timeless.
Podcasts That Go Deeper Than the Music
If you love hearing the stories behind the songs, podcasts are your new best friend. They’re like having a passionate music expert on demand, ready to share the fascinating details that bring your favorite tracks to life. You can find shows dedicated to breaking down legendary albums track-by-track, interviewing the artists themselves, or exploring the cultural history that shaped the music. Learning about the studio mishap that led to an iconic sound or the real-life heartbreak behind a famous ballad adds a whole new dimension to listening. Many platforms now offer dedicated audio content, and you can find a great selection of shows right here in our own library of rBeatz Podcasts, which explore the stories that make the music matter.
Airing Live Concerts and Rare Tracks
Classic rock has a raw, electric energy that is often best captured in a live performance. The top stations know this and frequently feature recordings from legendary concerts, giving listeners a front-row seat to iconic moments in music history. Hearing a rare live track or an unreleased demo provides a fresh perspective on a song you’ve known for years. It highlights the musicianship and spontaneity that defined the era. Broadcasting these special recordings shows a station’s dedication to giving its audience something unique that they can’t find anywhere else, celebrating the harder edge that makes classic rock so powerful.
Interactive Shows and Listener Dedications
A great classic rock station builds a strong community by making its audience part of the show. Interactive segments like listener call-ins, song requests, and dedications make the experience personal and engaging. It’s a simple but effective way to create a shared connection among fans. When you hear your name on the radio or a song you requested comes on, you feel like you’re a part of something bigger. This sense of community is a huge reason for classic rock’s enduring popularity, turning the station into a place where fans can share their passion for the music together.
Related Articles
- Top 10 Traffic Songs from the Legendary Rock Band | rBeatz
- Top 100 Greatest Alternative Rock Bands of All Time | rBeatz
- The Greatest Guitar Solos of all time | rBeatz digital radio
- 20 of the Best Road Trip Songs of All Time | rBeatz
- 20 of the Best Guitarists of All Time | rBeatz radio
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the focus so much on the 60s and 70s for classic rock? That period was really the foundation of it all. The late 60s and 70s were when rock and roll grew into a more complex, guitar-driven art form. Artists started thinking in terms of full albums, not just hit singles, which gave us iconic records that you can listen to from start to finish. This era defined the sound, attitude, and ambition that we now call classic rock.
Are the radio stations you listed free to listen to? Most of them are. Traditional FM stations and many online streaming services, including our own rBeatz Radio, are completely free because they are supported by ads. Some premium options, like SiriusXM, require a subscription, which usually gets you a commercial-free experience and exclusive shows. There’s a great mix of both free and paid options available, so you can find something that works for you.
What’s the real difference between a classic rock station and an oldies station? It really comes down to the era and the overall sound. An oldies station typically focuses on the pop hits of the 50s and early 60s, featuring genres like doo-wop and early rock and roll. A classic rock station picks up where that leaves off, centering on the harder, album-oriented, and guitar-heavy music that took over in the late 60s and 70s. Think less sock hop and more stadium concert.
My local classic rock station plays the same hits over and over. How can I find more variety? That’s a common frustration, but you definitely have options. The best way to find more variety is to explore online streaming platforms and apps. Services like rBeatz or stations known for their deep playlists, like KSHE 95, make a point of mixing in lesser-known album tracks and B-sides. Also, keep an eye out for special weekend programming, which is often when stations dive deeper into artist catalogs.
I love the music, but how can I learn more about the stories behind the songs? A great way to do this is by finding a station with passionate, knowledgeable DJs. Hosts who share trivia and background on the artists add so much to the listening experience. Many stations also have artist spotlight shows or podcasts that explore music history in more detail. It turns listening into a discovery process and gives you a whole new appreciation for the tracks you already love.