I think what you’re already doing is good. Nothing wrong with listening to what’s on the radio and what friends like.

If you feel like a deeper dive then:

The book Major Labels by Kelefa Sanneh will give you a good overview of the main music genres.

Here’s a rock history playlist of favorites (60s through today):

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5YzpbyvBOCm7sMjM51YBgM?si=yuy7VkTUTAaGLp7w9NXgpA

Here are current day alternative and indie favorites:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/19LgHcNf46ecjW7k9kQJPS?si=nOIsaqVMQE-G6iuKf2Pjnw