What is the number one activity for music nerds, other than listening to music? Listening to podcasts about music, of course. The podcast boom has seen variety of shows emerge on practically every subject imaginable, and music is no exception. Music podcasts are great for hearing interviews with artists, learning about the production process, taking a look back at music history, and discovering new musicians and genres — plus, much more. So whether you’re an aspiring musician yourself or just someone who’s passionate about what you listen to, it can be a great way to expand your horizons. Here are some of the best music podcasts to check out.
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Song Exploder
Song Exploder features interviews with some of the biggest artists out there, focusing on the stories behind some of their most significant songs, as well as the process of how they put the track together. It’s a great look behind the scenes at the anatomy of a hit song, and how various musicians approach writing differently.
Reasonably Sound
Reasonably Sound takes a scientific angle towards music. So, if you’re interested in learning about how specific sounds are created and why we react to them the way we do, this is a fantastic podcast to try. It also takes a bigger-picture look at why music tastes have shifted over time.
Disgraceland
For fans of music and true crime, Disgraceland is the perfect mix of both. This podcast follows some of the wildest stories of musicians encountering crime, whether directly or indirectly. These stories are stranger than fiction and far too good to be missed.
Ongoing History of New Music
Music history isn’t just something of the past — it’s being made right now, too. Ongoing History of New Music takes a look at the evolution of different genres, musical trends, and artist profiles. With a specific focus on alt-rock, this documentary series has some great stories you won’t find anywhere else.
Hit Parade
Hit Parade delves into some of the most iconic hit songs over the years and why they became so popular. It goes beyond the music itself and looks at how talent is supplemented by circumstantial factors, timing, and sometimes, blind luck.
Bandsplain
Whether you’re curious about why people like that band you don’t care for, or simply want to learn more about bands that are outside your radar, Bandsplain does in-depth profiles of artists over the years and explains what made them so iconic.
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