I just downloaded the new version of iTunes. One of the new features is called Genius – you select a song you like, and Genius will scan through your library to find a custom playlist similar to the song you chose. I’ve made quite a few Genius lists, and everyone has been spectacular! Here are a few examples- I entered a song I love, and these artists were immediately linked:

Landed – Ben Folds :Aqualung, Jason Mraz, Sufjan Stevens, Beck, Howie Day, Dave Matthews Band, Damien Rice, The Fray, John Mayer, Regina Spektor, Jet, Snow Patrol, Better Than Ezra

Dig – Incubus: Angels and Airwaves, Deathcab for Cutie, Paramore, Stone Temple Pilots, OAR, Muse, Frou Frou, Pearl Jam, Smashing Pumpkins, Fall Out Boy, Muse

The Special Two – Missy Higgins: Sarah McLachlan, Holly Brook, Sara Bareilles, Josh Kelly, Kelly Clarkson, Ingrid Michaelson, Colbie Callait, Imogen Heap, Justin Nouzuka, Annie Lennox

Every Breath You Take – The Police: The Cure, Depeche Mode, The Clash, Duran Duran, Journey, Sting, U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Barenaked Ladies, The Cars, Matchbox Twenty

Some of the combinations may sound odd at first, but it matches upbeat songs to others upbeat songs, and ballads to ballads. It’s apparently based on feedback from listeners in the iTunes store, for what songs other people purchased. You can also link it up to purchase new stuff, but since I’ve got over 900 albums in my iTunes (yeah, I know I’m insane!) it helps me rediscover songs and artists I haven’t listened to in a while. It doesn’t always work like magic, but it’s worth a try!