When we think of music streaming, giants like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music dominate the scene. But beyond these mainstream services, lesser-known music streaming platforms offer unique features, diverse catalogs, and niche communities. Whether you’re an artist exploring new opportunities or a listener searching for fresh sounds, these hidden gems are worth discovering.
1. Boomplay (Africa)
Boomplay is one of Africa’s largest music streaming platforms, with millions of songs from both local and international artists. It’s particularly popular in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and Tanzania. The platform emphasizes Afrobeat, Afropop, and gospel music, making it a great choice for anyone looking to explore the African music scene.
Key Features:
• Free ad-supported streaming with an option for a premium subscription
• Offline listening for paid users
• Exclusive African music content
Best For: Afrobeat lovers and those interested in African music.
2. Anghami (Middle East & North Africa)
Anghami is the leading music streaming service in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). It offers a vast library of Arabic music alongside global hits. The platform provides a mix of free and premium services, with high-quality audio and a strong focus on Arabic culture.
Key Features:
• Personalized playlists based on listening habits
• Lyrics display and karaoke features
• Anghami Plus subscription for ad-free and offline listening
Best For: Fans of Arabic music and Middle Eastern artists.
3. JioSaavn (India)
JioSaavn is India’s go-to music streaming platform, featuring an extensive collection of Bollywood, regional, and international music. It’s widely used across India, with support for multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, and more.
Key Features:
• A mix of free and premium streaming options
• Podcasts and original content
• Smart AI-driven recommendations
Best For: Bollywood lovers and fans of Indian regional music.
4.Yandex Music (Russia)
Yandex Music is a top streaming platform in Russia and CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries. It features a blend of Russian pop, international hits, and indie music. The platform is integrated with Yandex’s AI, offering smart recommendations based on user preferences.
Key Features:
• High-quality audio streaming
• AI-generated playlists
• Integration with Yandex’s smart assistant, Alice
Best For: Russian music enthusiasts and fans of Eastern European pop.
5. Deezer (Global)
While Deezer is more widely known than some of the others on this list, it’s still often overlooked compared to Spotify and Apple Music. It offers a massive catalog, high-fidelity audio, and unique features like “Flow,” a personalized endless playlist.
Key Features:
• Lossless HiFi audio option for audiophiles
• Global catalog with localized content
• Lyrics feature and SongCatcher (music recognition tool)
Best For: Audiophiles looking for a high-quality alternative to mainstream streaming services.
Final Thoughts
These platforms provide exciting alternatives to mainstream streaming services, offering unique music experiences tailored to different regions and cultures. Whether you want to explore African beats, dive into Arabic melodies, or enjoy high-fidelity sound, there’s a lesser-known music streaming service out there for you.
Have you tried any of these platforms?