by Cari Cole

I press my students to put their ear to the ground, to new music being birthed — right now. It’s the music being created – right now – in rehearsal and recording studios all over the world that you should be listening to (sound exciting?). It should. It’s the music you haven’t heard yet that you want to listen to – because that’s what’s coming next…

This month try listening to 1-2 new emerging artists per week.

1. Check out your local musicians/shows ~ Besides word of mouth, which is always a great way to check out new music, go to the websites of cool venues in your area, check out the calendar, and click on artist’s websites to check out music you want to go see. I’ve found awesome artists this way that I otherwise would not have found so quickly.

2. Local record labels ~ Every city has indie labels that put out great artists. Go to their websites and check them out. I mean really check them out. Go to their websites, listen to a song or two, catch their vibe. Follow the artists you find that you dig.

3. Pandora ~ Pandora radio is a personalized internet radio service that helps you find new music based on your old and current favorites. An awesome quick-search way to find new artists similar in taste.

4. Ping on iTunes ~ Follow your favorite artists and friends to discover the music they’re talking about, listening to, and downloading. Start with one of my favorites: Follow Diane Birch on Ping and check out the artists that make her playlist! http://bit.ly/dianeping

5. Subscribe to Music Blogs ~ Like Pitchfork, Stereogum and Google “indie music blogs.”

6. Public radio ~ DJs for public radio tend to be amped about the music they play – after all they have some free rein with their playlist! A great way to hear new stuff straight from people passionate about music – like FM radio used to be.

7. Opening acts ~ Opening acts are the way labels expose their new emerging artists to audiences. Often they are some of the best new artists out there, so don’t close your ears – listen up!

8. Producers ~ Check out who’s producing your favorite artists and follow their playlists! Who are they listening to? Do you know who your favorite producers are? Start a list!

Ear to the Ground — get current. Feel the pulse. Don’t isolate – catch the pulse!