Online radio has grown greatly in popularity as terrestrial radio becomes increasingly uniform. Many radio stations have greatly expanded their listeners by simultaneously broadcasting over the airwaves and the Internet. Some non-commercial radio stations like KEXP, KCRW and WUTK have developed an extensive worldwide audience by broadcasting over the web and become very influential in breaking new artists. Some online radio stations like SomaFM and WOXY provide a wide array of programming that isn’t typically heard through commercial radio stations. Music fans can now enjoy a wide variety of free radio listening options directly from their PC.

Digital technology has provided music fans with online radio services such as  Pandora that allow users to create, personalize and enjoy their own radio stations. Some online radio services like Last.FM and Social.FM combine music discovery and artist recommendations with social networking. Live365 provides an online radio service and has “broadcaster” tools to help users setup their own radio station including professional broadcaster options complete with the appropriate royalty and licensing packages.