In recent years, musical podcasts have grown in popularity, providing fans and casual listeners alike with deeper insight into the world of music. These podcasts offer more than just interviews; they bring listeners into the creative minds of musicians, songwriters, producers, and industry insiders. From exploring the history behind iconic songs to dissecting music theory, musical podcasts are an essential part of the modern listening experience.
If you’re an avid music lover or simply someone looking to expand your playlist with new genres and perspectives, this blog highlights some of the best podcasts about music in 2024. Get ready to explore the world behind the music with these engaging and thought-provoking shows.
Why Musical Podcasts Are So Popular
1. In-Depth Exploration
Musical podcasts often dive deep into the stories behind the music. Whether it’s an exploration of an album’s creation or a close look at a specific genre’s evolution, listeners are treated to a deeper understanding of the music they love.
2. Access to Artists and Creators
Many podcasts feature interviews with top musicians, songwriters, and producers. These interviews allow listeners to hear directly from the people responsible for the music, offering insights into their creative process, struggles, and inspirations.
3. Diverse Musical Genres
One of the best aspects of musical podcasts is the variety. There are podcasts dedicated to every imaginable genre—whether you’re into pop, rock, classical, hip-hop, jazz, or country, you’ll find something that suits your tastes.
4. Learn Music Theory and History
Some podcasts delve into the technical aspects of music theory, exploring how melodies, harmonies, and rhythms work together. Others take a historical approach, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the cultural movements that shaped iconic sounds.
The Best Podcasts About Music in 2024
1. Song Exploder
Host: Hrishikesh Hirway
- Why Listen: Song Exploder is one of the most innovative music podcasts, where artists break down their tracks, revealing the process behind each part. This show is perfect for anyone curious about how a song is crafted, from the first idea to the finished product.
- Notable Episodes: Billie Eilish’s “Everything I Wanted” and The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights.”
2. Dissect
Host: Cole Cuchna
- Why Listen: Dissect is a unique podcast that takes a deep dive into entire albums, unpacking the lyrics, themes, and musical structures. Cole Cuchna’s approach is academic, yet accessible, offering a comprehensive analysis of albums from iconic artists.
- Perfect For: Fans of albums like Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly or Beyoncé’s Lemonade.
3. Switched on Pop
Hosts: Nate Sloan and Charlie Harding
- Why Listen: If you’re a fan of pop music, Switched on Pop is the perfect podcast to break down the sounds that dominate the charts. The hosts are musicologists who analyze pop hits with an in-depth understanding of music theory, uncovering what makes these songs so irresistible.
- Great For: People interested in how pop music is crafted from a technical perspective.
4. Broken Record
Hosts: Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam
- Why Listen: This podcast features candid conversations with legendary artists, producers, and songwriters. Rick Rubin, the iconic music producer, and Malcolm Gladwell bring unique perspectives on the music industry, blending storytelling with deep discussions on the creative process.
- Guest Highlights: Bruce Springsteen, Questlove, and Tyler, The Creator.
5. The Talkhouse Music Podcast
Hosts: Various (with rotating guest hosts)
- Why Listen: The Talkhouse podcast offers a platform for musicians to discuss music, their careers, and the industry. Often featuring artists in conversation with their peers, the podcast offers a fresh and engaging perspective on music.
- Recommended For: Listeners who enjoy casual yet insightful chats with musicians about their craft and personal experiences.
6. Rolling Stone Music Now
Host: Brian Hiatt
- Why Listen: As a major player in the music industry, Rolling Stone brings listeners the latest news, album reviews, and discussions with musicians. This podcast is a great way to stay up-to-date with the music world.
- Popular Episodes: In-depth conversations with Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, and other big names.
7. The FADER Uncovered
Host: Mark Ronson
- Why Listen: Mark Ronson, the legendary producer, interviews some of today’s most iconic artists, discussing their creative journeys and personal stories. The podcast offers an intimate look at the music industry and the individuals shaping its sound.
- Memorable Guests: Tame Impala, Erykah Badu, and St. Vincent.
Honorable Mentions
1. All Songs Considered
If you’re looking for a podcast that covers new music, All Songs Considered is your go-to source. Hosted by Bob Boilen, it highlights new releases across a range of genres, giving listeners a curated playlist each week.
2. Cocaine & Rhinestones
For fans of country music, Cocaine & Rhinestones offers an intriguing and sometimes dark look at the history of country music in the 20th century, exploring the lives of its stars and the cultural impact of their music.
3. Questlove Supreme
Hosted by Questlove of The Roots, this podcast features a blend of music history, interviews, and entertainment. The guests often share their thoughts on the evolution of music and the genre-blending styles that continue to influence today’s sound.
How to Choose the Right Music Podcast for You
With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the best music podcasts for your listening preferences. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect show:
1. Focus on Your Favorite Genre
If you’re passionate about a particular genre, look for podcasts that specialize in it. Whether it’s pop, rock, classical, or jazz, there are shows tailored to every type of music.
2. Explore Artist Interviews
Podcasts that feature artist interviews often provide exclusive insights into the creative process, personal stories, and struggles that influence an artist’s music. Shows like Broken Record and The FADER Uncovered are great options for this.
3. Look for Deep Dives into Albums
If you enjoy understanding the intricacies of a record, podcasts like Dissect and Song Exploder offer in-depth analyses that break down the album as a whole.
4. Stay Current
For those who want to stay up-to-date with the latest music trends, news, and releases, shows like Rolling Stone Music Now and All Songs Considered are excellent resources.
Conclusion
Music podcasts are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the world of music, from its history to its most current trends. The best music podcasts for 2024 offer diverse perspectives, fascinating artist interviews, and deep dives into the creative process, all while keeping you entertained and informed.
So whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, hip-hop, or something in between, the world of musical podcasts is rich with content just waiting to be explored. Grab your headphones and dive into the shows mentioned above to start discovering new artists, albums, and insights that will deepen your appreciation for the music you love.
