SpoTube is a budding video music playlist application. The site covers numerous genres and popular artists. Pulling information from Last.FM, SpoTube provides users with artist bios, discographies, and most importantly, the ability to watch music videos directly on SpoTube through an embedded YouTube player. Users can view artists and songs by popularity or search for something in particular. Playlists can also be put together to satisfy the user’s personal preferences. Artist info includes a few examples of similar artists so users can explore new music and possibly discover something they love. Additional features allow users to view album information or connect to Facebook through SpoTube.

Visit www.spotube.com

SpoTube was created to build a refined site similar to YouTube, with a focus on music and related information. The site is currently in beta, so more changes may be on the horizon. Currently, users can learn about artists, albums, and watch music videos taken directly from YouTube.

The main draw to SpoTube is its focus on music and detailed information. Many other sites offer a similar service, although SpoTube combines many things into one application. Users can watch music videos, read about the artists, or check out song lists and album details.

The SpoTube website incorporates a modernized appearance that is primarily grey and silver with hints of dark blue. The design seems a little confusing at first. It is obvious the layout was intended to look cutting edge, but seems to fall a little short by throwing too much at the user all at once. The side menu includes a scroll bar and embedded YouTube player that overlaps the top menu, adding to the confusion. Shifting the side bar elsewhere might be a better choice. There is no telling how the site will evolve since it is still new and being developed.

New visitors can register for an account by clicking on the stylish silver pencil and square icon at the top, right hand corner of the homepage. This is not readily apparent when the visitor first arrives. Mousing over the icon causes the destination to pop up just beside the icons. The registration for requires a nickname, email address, password, country location, gender, Last.FM username, and desired avatar. After entering the information, the user can click on the silver “Sign Up” button at the bottom of the form.

SpoTube is available to all users for free. There are no subscription fees or other charges required for using the feature available on the site. This is a good thing because the information and videos found on the site are generally available elsewhere for free. SpoTube essentially compiles it all for users. The site is still in beta so there may be changes that could increase features and lead to a premium paid membership option. No information has been provided regarding upcoming changes other than improving site stability.

Music fans could enjoy SpoTube. The site offers many artist and their albums complete with information and music videos from YouTube. The site could use a few improvements, but for the most part it is easy to use.

• Watch music videos taken from YouTube
• Read information on favorite artists and bands
• Create a personal profile and interact with the SpoTube community
• Connect to an existing Facebook account through SpoTube
• Build a playlist of videos

Visit www.spotube.com

SpoTube video