How To Download Music

Want to listen to music on your computer, iPod or other music player? The fastest way to get your songs, without even having to leave the house, is by downloading. The process is quick and simple. Sometimes you may have to pay to gain access to the songs that you want, but other times you can download for free. The cost (or lack of cost) for the music you want will depend on several factors, including the popularity of the artist and the age of the song. If you want to learn how to download music today, just read this guide to get started.

Downloading music, whether for free or when using a paid program, is an excellent way to explore new music and artists. In addition to finding new tunes to listen to, you can also search for your favorite bands and musicians and download songs that you already know and enjoy listening to. There is a vast selection of music available through the Internet, and by downloading it to your computer or your cell phone you can access it whenever you please. If you're new to the world of downloading, continue reading this guide to learn how to download music.

The first step is deciding what you want to listen to. It helps to have a list of the songs that you would like to own. Take a few minutes to write down your favorites. Think about the songs that you enjoy listening to on the radio or at clubs, as well as the music that you grew up with. If you can't think of anything off the top of your head, relax. You can also browse selections online. There is a lot to choose from, however, so it does help to at least have some artists or particular genres in mind.

If you will be using a downloading service, like iTunes, you can also use its "Genius" music recommendation option. Genius identifies new artists you may like to browse based on your previously downloaded music. You can use this service to find new music you may be interested in.http://www.apple.com/itunes/itunes-news/2010/01/genius-playlists-and-mixes-surprise-and-delight.html

The next step is to find a website or program to download from. iTunes is the most popular, and you can download it for free on your Mac or PC. You will have to pay for most of your iTunes songs, though occasionally you will find freebies.http://www.apple.com/itunes/

Amazon.com also offers a music downloading service with over 12 million songs available for purchase. Most songs can be bought for 99 cents each and albums can cost as low as $5.00. Everyday, the site features a free single of the day that can be downloaded for no charge.http://www.amazon.com/MP3-Music-Download/b?ie=UTF8&node=163856011

Napster is another file downloading site where you can purchase songs. The site was originally a peer-to-peer file sharing site, but now sells legally obtained music. Unlike iTunes and Amazon, however, Napster does not sell music by the song or album. Instead, members purchase monthly or annual music plans that allow them to purchase a specified number of songs.http://www.napster.com/index.html?darwin_ttl=1279329272&darwin=s0210D®flow_id=s0210D&naps_app_id=0

In addition to the more popular sites, music download sites are by no means in short supply. MP3.com provides users a paid service and also has a section of the site that is dedicated to offering free music downloads.http://www.mp3.com/free-music/ Rhapsody.com offers a subscription service for unlimited music downloads.http://www.rhapsody.com/welcome.html And even sites such as Walmart.com provide web surfers an outlet from which they can download the latest songs. http://mp3.walmart.com/store/home In addition to downloading music, many sites have also designed their website or software to be compatible with most MP3 players and have integrated sync options for users to load music directly from their program.

Any time you download, you leave your computer vulnerable to viruses, malware, and spyware. Therefore, it is imperative that you not go to untrustworthy sites for your music. Stick with the well-known sources, and if you have any doubts, navigate away from the page. No song is worth harming your computer!

If you are in any doubt, you may want to try searching Google for your potential source of music, possibly followed by the word "review" or "rating." You should be able to find feedback from people who have used the website. If the reviews are positive, proceed with your downloads. If anything makes the site sound fishy, move on with your search.

Keep in mind that it is illegal to download copyrighted material without permission. See the RIAA's website for more legal information. Make sure files are legal before you start downloading them!