Amazon already offers a family plan, which at $149/£149 per year is appealing for Prime subscribers. And reaching out to students is another way to expand its base. But, simply matching Apple and Spotify's offers may not be enough -- particularly in the face of the exclusives and addictive playlists its competitors have in their arsenals. Still, Amazon's service only launched in October, so it will have to play catch-up for the time being.

Along with the deal, Amazon's also offering up tips on how students can use Alexa's voice controls for music. Looking to focus on your homework? Ask "Alexa, play classical music for studying," or "Alexa, play pop music for focusing." Need a loud ditty to rattle you out of bed in the morning? Just ask, "Alexa, play wake up music." And, if you can't remember the name of a song, just prompt Alexa with its lyrics, or the artist's name. While you're at it, be sure to skip Despacito. All the cool kids are over that one.