Music Listening Habits in India: A Comprehensive Overview

As of my last update in August 2023, it has been reported that a significant portion of the Indian population engages with music daily. According to various surveys and reports, over 80% of internet users in India listen to music, with many listening for at least 15 minutes a day. Given India's large population, this could translate to hundreds of millions of people.

To get the most current statistics, checking recent surveys or reports from music streaming services or market research firms would provide the latest figures. One study that sheds light on this trend took place across nine cities in India to examine the music listening habits of respondents between 16 and 64 years of age.

The Extent of Music Listening in India

The average Indian listens to music for 2.7 hours each day, which is equivalent to listening to 54 three-minute songs daily, according to the study. This high usage indicates a strong cultural reliance on music, both for entertainment and relaxation.

Preferred Platforms and Devices

When it comes to where they listen to music, 97% of the sample size preferred to listen via their smartphones. For music streaming, social media platforms and apps played a significant role. Among the listeners, 62% used these platforms to listen to music or watch music videos.

Listening Scenarios

When it comes to the scenarios in which they listen to music, the study reveals several preferences:

75% heard music while relaxing at home 62% listened in the car 45% listened at social events like restaurants or pubs

Genres Preferred by Indian Listeners

The study also delved into the genres people prefer listening to in India. Bollywood music emerged as the most popular genre. Specifically, 60% of respondents chose music released in the last 12 to 18 months, while 53% chose vintage songs. To get a clearer picture, the respondents were asked to choose one favorite genre. Here are the results:

19% preferred listening to new songs 16% chose classic Bollywood music

These findings highlight the cultural landscape of music consumption in India, emphasizing both the diversity and the popularity of Bollywood music. The data suggests that there is a consistent and growing interest in music listening, with smartphones and social media playing key roles in how people consume music in their daily lives.

For businesses and marketers looking to reach this audience, understanding these listening habits and preferences is crucial. Whether it's for advertising, content creation, or product development, tapping into the dynamics of music listening in India can provide significant insights and opportunities.