MP3 search engines: the top four

Whether you enjoy discovering new musical artists that nobody else has heard of (yet), or just want your music that you already own in a different format for better portability, MP3 search engines are the way to go. These search engines focus only on looking at MP3 files, and therefore can bring back far more accurate results than just a general search engine query. Note: These MP3 search engines don't actually host any MP3 files, they simply find them as they come across them on the Web. Some of these files may be copyrighted, so use your best judgment on whether you should download them or not.

BeeMP3 is extremely easy to use, and offers the most popular MP3 searches at any one time right on the front page, as well as an alphabetical list of songs.

Grooveshark is more than just a MP3 search engine. You can search for music, add it to a playlist, store it in your library, share it with friends, even upload your own music.

FilesTube searches for files on RapidShare and other file sharing sites. MP3's are available here, as well as videos and printed materials.

Jamendo is a dream come true for emerging artists who need a place to showcase their work; plus, all the music on Jamendo is absolutely free and legal to download and distribute.

What are your favorite places to find MP3 files? Share with us in the comments.

More ways to find music on the Web

• Google Music
• Find Music You Like with Music -Map
• Listen to Music with Last.fm
• Free Classical Music Downloads at Wikipedia
• What's the best site for free music downloads?