I began exploring music shortly before the advent of the internet, a time when acquiring music necessitated a financial investment. My sources included garage sales, thrift shops, and occasionally purchasing cassettes or CDs at $15 each. However, with the rise of the internet, the landscape of music discovery changed dramatically.
The digital age enabled me to amass a library of 5,000 songs with remarkable speed. I leveraged message boards to discover new music, seeking out tracks that aligned with my tastes or piqued my curiosity. Platforms like YouTube also became invaluable, allowing me to explore a vast array of songs simply by following posted links. Additionally, websites such as RateYourMusic offered a global perspective, facilitating the discovery of diverse music genres and artists.
Despite the abundance of available music, the process of finding truly exceptional tracks has become increasingly challenging. As my collection expanded, it became more difficult to encounter music that resonates as profoundly as my favorites. The rapid consumption of music through these platforms often means that discovering new favorites is a more elusive endeavor.