With the popularity of the Internet that came at the turn of the 21st century, radio stations with websites began to offer free streams. The exact same audio heard on the frequency in a small geographic area was thus able to be heard in any part of the world that had Internet.
Two types of streaming live music radio exist: stations that have an initial radio frequency over the air, and those that do not. Stations that don't have an FM signal may be smaller with less of a budget to work with. FM stations that also have streams do so as an added benefit to listeners who wish to hear their local station while surfing the web.
The essential function of streaming live radio is convenience. Since many people access their media and entertainment online, radio is no different. Instead of turning on a separate device to hear their favorite DJs play music, listeners simply click another button on their computer and listen over those speakers.
Since some streaming live music radio comes directly from an FM station's source, most streaming stations have a similar sound to signaled stations. Contests may be offered for call-in or texting winners, and phone calls are screened for on-air guests. Since both FM stations and streaming stations are live, both require an audio engineer at a sound board making sure the proper programming is broadcasting.
Some Internet-only live music stations have the benefit of playing whatever music they want, since the FCC does not regulate online. Internet stations can also have listeners from all over the world, thus enabling higher listener numbers. There is also a visual element at station websites, such as displaying which song is currently playing.