The Groove Radio Named Among Best Music Podcasts After 20 Years of Algorithm-Free Curation

The Groove Radio, created and hosted by New York City-based DJ Suzy Chase, has been named one of The Best Independent Podcasts of 2026 in the Best Music Podcasts category by Ear Worthy. This recognition comes as the show marks its 20th anniversary, having launched in 2005 as the first mixtape podcast years before playlists, algorithms, and optimization reshaped how audiences discovered music. Over two decades, the independent podcast has surpassed 8 million lifetime downloads, quietly establishing itself as one of podcasting's earliest pioneers and the original mixtape podcast.

Ear Worthy highlighted the show's distinctive approach to music discovery, noting its focus on curating soul, R&B, and yacht rock playlists through themed mixtapes and deeper dives into music that scores life's moments. The recognition emphasizes the podcast's commitment to providing good soul music often missed on mainstream radio, featuring guest artists and personal stories that create a more human connection to music. This approach stands in contrast to algorithm-driven platforms that optimize listening experiences rather than focusing on emotional resonance.

The timing of this recognition is particularly significant as The Groove Radio celebrates two decades of operation, having maintained its independent, human-curated approach throughout a period when music discovery became increasingly automated. The podcast's longevity and continued relevance demonstrate the enduring value of personalized curation in an era dominated by algorithmic recommendations. Listeners can access the podcast through various platforms including TheGrooveRadio.com, Apple Podcasts, and TuneIn.

As part of its 20th anniversary celebration, The Groove Radio has launched TGR Unplugged, a limited series of nine songs and nine stories that looks back at how music found audiences before algorithms transformed listening into something optimized rather than felt. This special series reinforces the podcast's core philosophy that music discovery should be a personal, emotional experience rather than a data-driven process. The recognition from Ear Worthy validates this approach at a time when many listeners are seeking alternatives to algorithm-dominated platforms.

The award highlights the growing appreciation for independent, human-curated content in an increasingly automated media landscape. The Groove Radio's success over 20 years demonstrates that there remains significant audience demand for music discovery experiences that prioritize emotional connection and personal curation over algorithmic efficiency. This recognition serves as an important reminder of podcasting's roots in independent creation and personal expression, values that The Groove Radio has maintained throughout its two-decade history while adapting to changing technological landscapes.