In theory, Pandora Radio is the best thing that happened to the Internet since Facebook. The key to utilizing Pandora to its fullest extent is knowing which stations are they best. Pandora is hit or miss if you don’t know where to go. Some stations lack variety whilst others lack continuity. The point of Pandora is to listen to music that matches your mood and discover new artists. Below is a list of the top 10 Pandora stations guaranteed to satisfy your musical cravings (in no particular order).
1. “Valerie” by Amy Winehouse- Perfect if you’re in the mood soulful for soulful vocals. Most songs on this station are upbeat and with some pop influence. Music by artists like Mark Ronson, Raphael Saadiq and Adele are in frequent rotation.
2. Portugal. The Man- This station is mix of alternative, instrumental and rock, so there is plenty to choose from. Portugal. The Man isn’t your typical indie or alternative band so this station will by a nice relief for hipsters. Music by Ratatat and bands you’ve never heard of, but will end up loving.
3. Glee- Whether or not you admit to listening to Glee, you can’t deny that their songs are addictive. You’ll probably know most of the words to all of the songs on this station, which is always convenient. Best of all, this stations provides a huge range of genres and musical styles.
4. The Roots- Everything you would expect, but better. A mix of classics, and all around good hip hop. The Roots have such a big library of music so you’ll never get sick of listening.
5. “Next Girl” by The Black Keys- The Black Keys is one of the most quintessential rock bands of today. They mix rock with pleasing vocals (usally female background vocals) to create the best music you’ve heard in a long time. If you’re lucky you might even get a little BlakRoc in there.
6. Kreayshawn- This station providescontemporary hip/hop and pop, but none of that top 20 nonsense. It’s probably best to listen to this when you need a pick me up or are getting ready to go out.
7. The Morning Benders- The ultimate indie station.
8. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross- Listening to music while studying can be challenging. Instrumentals can put you to sleep and songs you know the words to can be distracting. This playlist, by the guys who did the music for “The Social Network” is the cure to your study woes.
9. Otis Redding- Definitely an oldie but goodie. All of the classic soul songs are included with a mix of a little pop. There really is no explanation needed.
10. D’yer Mak’er- Classic rock at its finest. Songs that sound a little mystical with subtle vocal harmonies and heavy harmonies. Your parents would be proud.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Arizona chapter.