Top 10 Music Streaming Apps in India
Discover the top 10 music streaming apps in India for 2024, offering a wide variety of songs, playlists, and podcasts. Explore the best platforms to enjoy your favorite tunes, from Bollywood hits to international tracks.
Music has always been an integral part of Indian culture, and with the rise of smartphones and the internet, accessing music has never been easier. Music streaming apps have revolutionized the way we listen to our favorite tunes, offering a vast library of songs from various genres and languages. Whether you’re into Bollywood hits, classical ragas, or international chartbusters, there’s an app tailored to your taste. Here’s a look at the top 10 music streaming apps in India that are changing the way we enjoy music.
Table of Contents
1. Spotify
Spotify, a global leader in music streaming, entered the Indian market in 2019. It quickly gained popularity due to its extensive catalog of over 70 million tracks, offering music across genres and languages. Spotify is known for its powerful recommendation engine, which creates personalized playlists like “Discover Weekly” and “Daily Mix” based on user listening habits. The platform also hosts a wide variety of podcasts, catering to a diverse audience. With its user-friendly interface, social sharing features, and seamless cross-device integration, Spotify is a favorite among Indian users, especially those who enjoy both local and international music.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Over 70 million tracks |
| Supported Languages | Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, and more |
| Key Features | Personalized playlists, podcasts, offline listening, social sharing |
| Subscription Plans | Free (with ads), Premium (ad-free, offline access) |
| Unique Selling Point | Advanced music recommendation algorithm |
| Launch Year in India | 2019 |
Overview: Launched in India in 2019, Spotify quickly became one of the most popular music streaming platforms in the country. With a vast library of over 70 million tracks, Spotify caters to all kinds of music lovers.
Key Features:
- Personalized Playlists: Discover Weekly and Daily Mix playlists are curated based on your listening habits.
- Podcasts: A wide range of podcasts available across different genres.
- Offline Listening: Premium users can download music for offline listening.
Unique Selling Point: Spotify’s advanced algorithm for song recommendations sets it apart from its competitors.
2. Gaana
Gaana is one of the pioneers in the Indian music streaming industry, offering an extensive collection of over 45 million songs in multiple Indian languages. It’s particularly popular for its regional music offerings, making it a go-to platform for users who enjoy Bollywood music, devotional songs, and regional tracks. Gaana also features a variety of curated playlists, radio stations, and music videos. The platform’s Gaana Plus subscription removes ads, allows offline downloads, and offers higher-quality streaming. Gaana’s integration of voice search and AI-driven recommendations further enhances the user experience.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Over 45 million tracks |
| Supported Languages | Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Punjabi, and more |
| Key Features | Voice search, curated playlists, radio stations, offline listening |
| Subscription Plans | Free (with ads), Gaana Plus (ad-free, offline access) |
| Unique Selling Point | Extensive regional content, particularly Bollywood and devotional music |
| Launch Year in India | 2010 |
Overview: Gaana is one of India’s leading music streaming services, boasting a library of over 45 million songs in various Indian languages.
Key Features:
- Gaana Plus: Ad-free experience with unlimited downloads.
- Voice Search: Easily search for songs using voice commands.
- Radio: Hundreds of curated radio stations across different genres and moods.
Unique Selling Point: Gaana’s focus on regional content makes it a favorite among Indian users.
3. JioSaavn
JioSaavn, formed by the merger of JioMusic and Saavn, is one of India’s leading music streaming platforms. It offers a comprehensive library of Indian and international music, making it popular across different demographics. JioSaavn stands out for its high-quality audio, smart recommendations, and exclusive original content, including shows and podcasts. The platform offers a free version with ads, while JioSaavn Pro provides an ad-free experience, offline downloads, and superior sound quality. Jio users often benefit from exclusive deals, making it a preferred choice for millions of subscribers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Over 50 million tracks |
| Supported Languages | Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Bengali, and more |
| Key Features | Smart recommendations, original shows and podcasts, offline listening |
| Subscription Plans | Free (with ads), JioSaavn Pro (ad-free, offline access) |
| Unique Selling Point | Integration with Jio network, exclusive benefits for Jio users |
| Launch Year in India | Saavn (2007), JioSaavn (2018 after merger) |
Overview: A merger of JioMusic and Saavn, JioSaavn offers a comprehensive collection of Indian and international music.
Key Features:
- JioSaavn Pro: Ad-free music, offline downloads, and high-quality streaming.
- Original Shows and Podcasts: Exclusive content that adds value beyond music.
- Smart Recommendations: Personalized music recommendations based on listening patterns.
Unique Selling Point: Integration with Jio network offers exclusive benefits to Jio users.
4. Apple Music
Apple Music is known for its high-quality audio and vast library that includes over 75 million songs. It’s particularly popular among Apple device users, offering seamless integration with iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. The platform features exclusive content, curated playlists, and high-fidelity streaming with features like Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos. Apple Music’s radio stations, including Beats 1, provide live shows and interviews with top artists. The service is subscription-based, with no free tier, but it offers a three-month trial for new users. It’s ideal for audiophiles who prioritize sound quality and exclusivity.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Over 75 million tracks |
| Supported Languages | Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, and more |
| Key Features | Spatial Audio, curated playlists, Apple-exclusive content, high-fidelity streaming |
| Subscription Plans | Monthly subscription with a three-month free trial for new users |
| Unique Selling Point | Superior audio quality, exclusive artist content, seamless integration with Apple devices |
| Launch Year in India | 2015 |
Overview: Apple Music is known for its vast library and high-quality sound. It has gained popularity in India for its extensive collection of both Indian and international tracks.
Key Features:
- Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos: Immersive sound experience.
- Curated Playlists: Handpicked playlists by experts for every mood and genre.
- Integration with Apple Devices: Seamless experience across Apple’s ecosystem.
Unique Selling Point: Superior audio quality and exclusive artist content.
5. Amazon Prime Music
Amazon Prime Music is a music streaming service that comes bundled with Amazon Prime membership, making it a cost-effective option for many users. It offers a wide variety of songs and albums across different genres and languages. The service is ad-free and allows offline downloads, providing a smooth listening experience. Integration with Alexa allows users to control their music with voice commands. While it may not have the extensive library of some competitors, it’s a convenient option for existing Amazon Prime members who also enjoy other Prime benefits like video streaming and fast shipping.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Over 60 million tracks |
| Supported Languages | Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, and more |
| Key Features | Ad-free streaming, Alexa integration, offline listening |
| Subscription Plans | Included with Amazon Prime membership |
| Unique Selling Point | Bundled with Amazon Prime membership, offering great value |
| Launch Year in India | 2017 |
Overview: Included with Amazon Prime membership, Prime Music offers a wide range of songs and albums without additional cost.
Key Features:
- Ad-Free Experience: Enjoy music without any interruptions.
- Alexa Integration: Control your music with voice commands.
- Offline Listening: Download songs and albums for offline access.
Unique Selling Point: Free access with Amazon Prime membership makes it a great value-for-money option.
6. Wynk Music
Wynk Music, owned by Bharti Airtel, is a popular choice among Indian users, especially Airtel subscribers. It offers a diverse catalog of music across different languages and genres, along with curated playlists and radio stations. Wynk Music is known for its ad-free streaming and offline download features, particularly for Airtel customers who can stream without consuming mobile data. The app also includes podcasts and has recently expanded into original content. Wynk’s integration with the Airtel network provides unique benefits to its users, making it a compelling option for those already within the Airtel ecosystem.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Over 10 million tracks |
| Supported Languages | Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and more |
| Key Features | Ad-free music for Airtel users, Hello Tunes, data-free streaming for Airtel users |
| Subscription Plans | Free with ads, premium subscription available |
| Unique Selling Point | Exclusive benefits for Airtel users, data-free streaming |
| Launch Year in India | 2014 |
Overview: Owned by Bharti Airtel, Wynk Music is a popular choice for Indian users, especially Airtel subscribers.
Key Features:
- Ad-Free Music: Available for Airtel users.
- Hello Tunes: Set your favorite songs as caller tunes.
- Podcasts: A growing library of podcasts across various categories.
Unique Selling Point: Exclusive benefits for Airtel users, including data-free streaming.
7. YouTube Music
YouTube Music is a music streaming service that leverages Google’s vast video and music library. It offers a unique experience by combining audio tracks with music videos, allowing users to switch between the two seamlessly. The platform features an extensive catalog of official tracks, remixes, covers, and live performances, making it ideal for discovering both mainstream and niche music. YouTube Music’s smart search lets users find songs even with vague descriptions, and the Offline Mixtape feature automatically downloads tracks for offline listening. A premium subscription removes ads and enables background play and offline downloads.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Extensive, including official tracks, remixes, covers, and live performances |
| Supported Languages | Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, and more |
| Key Features | Seamless switching between audio and video, smart search, Offline Mixtape |
| Subscription Plans | Free (with ads), YouTube Music Premium (ad-free, offline access, background play) |
| Unique Selling Point | Access to both music and music videos, plus user-generated content |
| Launch Year in India | 2019 |
Overview: YouTube Music leverages Google’s vast video and music library, offering both official tracks and user-generated content.
Key Features:
- Music Videos: Watch music videos alongside listening to audio tracks.
- Smart Search: Find songs even if you don’t know the title, using lyrics or descriptions.
- Offline Mixtape: Automatically downloads a selection of songs for offline listening.
Unique Selling Point: Access to both music and videos in one app.
8. Hungama Music
Hungama Music is an established Indian music streaming service known for its diverse collection of songs, music videos, and original shows. It boasts an extensive library of Bollywood, regional, and international music. The platform also features a unique loyalty program where users can earn and redeem points based on their interactions within the app, such as streaming songs, watching videos, and sharing content. Hungama Music offers both free and premium (Hungama Pro) subscription options, with the latter providing an ad-free experience, high-quality streaming, and unlimited downloads. The platform is particularly popular for its vast selection of music videos and its emphasis on Indian music.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Over 10 million tracks |
| Supported Languages | Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Bengali, and more |
| Key Features | Music videos, original shows, loyalty program, offline listening, curated playlists |
| Subscription Plans | Free (with ads), Hungama Pro (ad-free, offline access, high-quality streaming) |
| Unique Selling Point | Loyalty program rewarding user interactions, strong Bollywood and regional music catalog |
| Launch Year in India | 2012 |
Overview: Hungama Music offers an extensive catalog of Indian and international music, along with music videos and original shows.
Key Features:
- Hungama Pro: Ad-free experience with unlimited downloads.
- Loyalty Program: Earn points for every interaction and redeem them for rewards.
- Music Videos: Access to a vast collection of music videos.
Unique Selling Point: Unique loyalty program that rewards users for engaging with the app.
9. Resso
Resso is a relatively new music streaming app that differentiates itself by offering a social music experience. The platform allows users to express themselves through music by sharing lyric quotes, commenting on songs, and engaging with a community of music lovers. Resso’s library includes a wide range of tracks in various languages, appealing to a young, social-media-savvy audience. The app also features visually appealing backgrounds (called Vibes) that sync with the music, enhancing the listening experience. Resso offers both free and premium versions, with the latter providing an ad-free experience, offline listening, and higher-quality streaming.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Over 50 million tracks |
| Supported Languages | Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, and more |
| Key Features | Lyric sharing, Vibes (visuals synced with music), social interaction, offline listening |
| Subscription Plans | Free (with ads), Premium (ad-free, offline access, high-quality streaming) |
| Unique Selling Point | Social features allowing interaction and sharing, lyric-based user engagement |
| Launch Year in India | 2020 |
Overview: A relatively new entrant, Resso offers a social music streaming experience, where users can interact with each other through music.
Key Features:
- Lyric Quotes: Share your favorite lyrics on social media.
- Vibes: Set your favorite songs to moving visuals.
- Comments: Engage with a community of music lovers by commenting on tracks.
Unique Selling Point: Social features that allow for interaction and sharing with other users.
10. SoundCloud
SoundCloud is a global platform that stands out for its focus on independent and emerging artists. It allows artists to upload their music directly to the platform, making it a unique space for discovering new talent. SoundCloud offers a mix of mainstream music and lesser-known tracks, making it a hub for music discovery. Users can interact with tracks by liking, reposting, and commenting, creating a community-driven experience. The platform offers a free tier, but users can upgrade to SoundCloud Go+ for an ad-free experience, offline listening, and access to premium tracks. SoundCloud is particularly popular among users who enjoy exploring new genres and supporting independent musicians.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Size | Over 200 million tracks, including user-generated content |
| Supported Languages | Primarily English, with a variety of global music |
| Key Features | User-generated content, artist interaction, reposting, offline listening |
| Subscription Plans | Free (with ads), SoundCloud Go+ (ad-free, offline access, premium content) |
| Unique Selling Point | Platform for discovering independent and emerging artists, community interaction |
| Launch Year in India | 2007 (Global), gained popularity in India gradually |
Overview: SoundCloud is a platform for independent artists to share their music with the world, making it a treasure trove of new and upcoming artists.
Key Features:
- User-Generated Content: Access to a wide variety of tracks uploaded by independent artists.
- SoundCloud Go+: Premium subscription with offline listening and ad-free experience.
- Community Interaction: Engage directly with artists and other listeners.
Unique Selling Point: Platform for discovering new and emerging artists.
FAQs Top 10 Music Streaming Apps in India
Q1: Which is the best music streaming app in India?
A1: The “best” music streaming app depends on individual preferences. Spotify is popular for its personalized playlists and advanced recommendation algorithm. Gaana and JioSaavn are great for regional content, while Apple Music offers superior audio quality. YouTube Music is ideal for those who enjoy both music and videos.
Q2: Are these music streaming apps free?
A2: Most music streaming apps offer a free version with ads and limited features. For an ad-free experience, offline listening, and higher sound quality, you can opt for a premium subscription on apps like Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, and others.
Q3: Can I listen to music offline using these apps?
A3: Yes, most of these apps offer offline listening as a feature in their premium versions. You can download your favorite songs, albums, or playlists and listen to them without an internet connection.
Q4: What is the difference between Spotify and Gaana?
A4: Spotify is known for its global reach, extensive library, and advanced music recommendation algorithm. It’s ideal for discovering new music and podcasts. Gaana, on the other hand, is more focused on Indian content, offering a vast collection of regional songs and playlists, making it popular among Indian users.
Q5: Is Amazon Prime Music included in the Amazon Prime membership?
A5: Yes, Amazon Prime Music is included with the Amazon Prime membership at no additional cost. This allows you to stream music without ads, enjoy offline listening, and access a wide range of songs and playlists.
Q6: How do I choose the right music streaming app for me?
A6: To choose the right music streaming app, consider factors like your preferred music genres, the importance of audio quality, whether you need offline access, and if you enjoy additional features like podcasts or music videos. If you’re an Apple user, Apple Music might integrate best with your devices, while Gaana or JioSaavn may be better for regional content lovers.
Q7: Can I share my music playlists with friends?
A7: Yes, most music streaming apps like Spotify, Apple Music, and Resso allow you to create and share playlists with friends. Some apps even offer social features, allowing you to follow friends, see what they’re listening to, and collaborate on playlists.
Q8: Do these apps support multiple languages?
A8: Yes, apps like Gaana, JioSaavn, and Wynk Music offer music in multiple Indian languages including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, Bengali, and more. They also support international languages for global music.
Q9: What are some unique features of Resso?
A9: Resso stands out for its social features, allowing users to comment on songs, share lyric quotes on social media, and sync music with moving visuals (called Vibes). It offers a more interactive music streaming experience compared to other apps.
Q10: Is there a music streaming app specifically for discovering new artists?
A10: SoundCloud is a great platform for discovering new and emerging artists. It allows independent musicians to upload their tracks, giving you access to a vast array of user-generated content that you might not find on other platforms.
Conclusion
With the plethora of music streaming apps available in India, users have access to an almost limitless library of songs, albums, and playlists. Whether you’re looking for high-quality audio, a vast selection of regional music, or social features to share your favorite tracks, there’s an app that caters to your needs. Each platform offers unique features, ensuring that every music lover can find something that resonates with their taste.