19 music podcasts that have the power to transform your music taste

From deep dives into music history to fresh indie finds, these shows connect you with the creative processes behind the songs you have on repeat.

This guide covers the best music podcasts for every type of listener, whether you want to get fresh industry news, listen to artist interviews, or study music theory breakdowns.

And for a closer look at these topics and a wide range of others, the Headway app offers a comprehensive library of audio summaries. You can explore books on music legends like Elton John and Jay-Z, as well as a wide range of other topics like personal development, psychology, and productivity.

Quick answer: What are the top 5 music podcasts in 2025?

1. 'Questlove Supreme' — Deep conversations with musical legends and cultural icons hosted by The Roots' drummer.

2. 'Song Exploder' — Artists break down their songs piece by piece, revealing the creative process behind the music.

3. 'Dissect' — Thoughtful analysis that digs into lyrics and production to uncover deeper meanings in albums.

4. 'All Songs Considered' — NPR's music discovery show featuring new releases and industry insights.

5. 'Daebak Show with Eric Nam' — Your gateway to K-pop culture with artist interviews and Korean music scene stories.

To get quick insights, you can always start using Headway. Download the app and check these music-focused summaries:

1. 'Jay-Z: Made in America' — The business empire behind the music.

2. 'Somebody to Love: The Life, Death, and Legacy of Freddie Mercury' — Inside the mind of Queen's iconic frontman.

3. 'Bounce: Mozart, Federer, Picasso, Beckham, and the Science of Success' — What musical geniuses share with other top performers.

Ready to discover your podcast obsession? Let's dive in.

Best music industry podcasts to stay ahead of trends 

We have some excellent music podcast recommendations if you're looking for shows that cover the full spectrum of the world of music. These shows offer praise and criticism within the evolving music scene. It's a mixed bag of topics, from underrepresented genres and taboo topics to new music and industry news.

1. 'Popcast'

The New York Times is known for its iconic podcasts, and Popcast is no exception. It's the best music podcast if you're seeking diversity in content. Topics change weekly, from broad discussions on the latest awards to niche genre analysis. 

Episode duration: ≈ 60 minutes.

What to expect? Since it covers music news, releases, and notable artists, Popcast has become one of the top music industry podcasts. Whether you look for the fandoms of SZA and Taylor Swift or want to explore jazz or hip-hop culture, this weekly podcast will definitely help.

2. 'Name 3 Songs'

The term 'fangirl' may spark different opinions, but you might say they're the backbone of pop culture. In 'Name 3 Songs,' co-hosts Sara Feigin and Jenna Million challenge sexism within the music industry, aiming to empower fans. As passionate music lovers themselves, they bring a heavy dose of personal experience and passion to this subject. 

Episode duration: ≈ 65 minutes.

What to expect? Previous episodes have discussed fatphobia, misogyny, and queerbaiting. It's a fantastic podcast for those interested in topics like contemporary sound, industry trends, and celebrity news.

3. 'Afropop Worldwide'

When you look at the global music industry, some genres don't get the same attention as American pop. Thus, 'Afropop Worldwide' plans to raise the profile of African music globally. The show invites listeners on a journey through new and old tunes. 

Episode duration: ≈ 60 minutes.

What to expect? This music podcast combines history and culture in an engaging narrative to encourage people to expand their musical horizons. The latest episodes release new sounds from Nigeria, the story of Bembeya Jazz, and blues reflections.

4. 'On Wednesdays We Wear Black'

The music industry has its faults, and learning about them is a must for improving artist representation. 'On Wednesdays We Wear Black' features three people from the alternative music space. Rather than focusing on music alone, this trio discusses the lifestyle that accompanies it. 

Episode duration: ≈ 35 minutes.

What to expect? Hosts chat about everything from intimacy and fashion to gigs and racism. Its refreshing content makes it one of the best rock podcasts for alternative music fans. 

Best podcasts about music history

How did the music stars you adore go global? What made The Beatles so timeless? Whether you want to relive the tunes from your childhood or are interested in the rise of new genres, we've found the show for you.

5. 'Lost Notes'

The alternative music scene sees many artists come and go with little recognition. Thankfully, some indie music podcasts notice this and aim to share forgotten talent. So, for the history geeks reading, 'Lost Notes' has you covered. 

Episode duration: ≈ 45 minutes.

What to expect? 'Lost Notes' is a podcast about music in and around the '80s. They celebrate musical stories that didn't share the limelight but deserve a moment of glory. Moreover, each season centers on a new theme, so you'll always have new topics to explore. 

6. 'That's Not Metal'

Rock and metal fans rejoice because we've found one of the best podcasts in the genre. It analyzes the full rock spectrum, including sub-genres like jazz-inspired rock and rap-metal. 

Episode duration: Each episode varies in length, with some lasting 40 minutes and others nearing the two-hour mark.

What to expect? You'll notice hosts vary over the years. Regardless, they're all passionate and honest throughout. If you're looking for a podcast for news, opinions, and reviews in the world of rock, look no further than 'That's Not Metal.'

7. 'Cocaine & Rhinestones'

Although no longer in production, this music history podcast remains entertaining for all music nerds. The archive is full of exciting tales from country music stars — those you know and those you don't. 

Episode duration: ≈ 135 minutes.

What to expect? The conversations are informed and engaging, so it's common for episodes to reach two hours. Thus, this is an excellent podcast if you're looking for an in-depth analysis of country music.

8. 'Desert Island Discs' 

Produced by the BBC, 'Desert Island Discs' asks what guests would take to an island, including their top tunes. This radio show-turned-podcast has come a long way since its origins in 1942, with numerous stars taking the mic. 

Episode duration: ≈  50 minutes.

What to expect? You'll have fun connecting with your beloved artists, and learning about their favorite tunes is fun. Although it began before podcasts, the BBC made the early archives available for those who can't get enough. It is an excellent music podcast for fans of past and current celebrities.

9. 'Nothing Is Real'

'Nothing Is Real' is a Beatles podcast through and through. Hosts Steven Cockcroft and Jason Carty explore the globally adored band in this show. Each episode details a part of The Beatles' history and their impact on music. 

Episode duration: ≈ 55 minutes.

What to expect? Well, it is safe to say this is the best Beatles podcast for fans and music lovers alike, so expect full immersion into the Beatles universe.

Best hip-hop podcast

Hip-hop birthed some of the greatest names in music to date. However, hip-hop had a rocky start, and ignoring its origins dismisses a significant part of the industry. These music podcasts look at the relationship between hip-hop and politics, the rise of the genre, and stories from the artists. Whether you want to celebrate this genre's intricacies or learn about its discovery, it's time to find the best hip-hop podcast.

10. 'Louder Than A Riot'

The evolution of hip-hop became freedom for many young artists, but how far does that freedom stretch? 'Louder Than A Riot' discusses the dynamics of power within the music. In early episodes, they had conversations on incarceration and artists' experiences. 

Episode duration: ≈ 85 minutes.

What to expect? In later seasons, they've also shed light on marginalization within the genre, particularly the experience of Black women in rap and hip-hop spaces. This show is the best hip-hop podcast if you're seeking refreshing and honest talks.

11. 'Slow Burn: Biggie and Tupac' 

In the last season of 'Slow Burn,' the host attempts to unravel the feud and the lives of Tupac and Biggie. Although the show centers on true crime, this season makes a great music history podcast for those interested in the '90s hip-hop stars. 

Episode duration: ≈ 30 minutes.

What to expect? Rather than attempting to solve the mysteries, the show is well-informed and considers numerous angles to give a balanced view of the '90s.

12. 'Mogul'

Music and storytelling go hand in hand, making 'Mogul' one of the greatest music industry podcasts today. The host narrates iconic stories from hip-hop with the people who lived them.

The focus shifts each season, but the debut told the story of Chris Lighty. As a record company executive, his path crossed the likes of 50 Cent and Missy Elliott. 

Episode duration: ≈ 40 minutes.

What to expect? Later episodes cover lesser-known artist DJ Screw, who arguably birthed hip-hop and some of its most iconic mixes. The season celebrates his legacy alongside other notable figures. In short, 'Mogul' is an excellent music podcast for magnetic narratives. 

Best musical podcast 

Musical podcasts are a category in themselves; however, we have two to get you started. These are the best musical podcasts to celebrate theater, song, and storytelling from the screen to the stage.

13. 'Disney For Scores'

The film industry wouldn't be complete without music, as it brings a scene to life. More importantly, soundtracks can transcend the screen and stay with viewers for years. If you've ever wondered how musicians create such tunes, listen to 'Disney For Scores.' It's one of the best music production podcasts.

Episode duration: ≈ 30 minutes.

What to expect? Journalist Jon Burlingame hosts interviews with composers from the most anticipated films and TV shows. From 'Avengers: Endgame' to 'Toy Story,' this musical podcast offers unique insight into how composers created such iconic soundtracks. Disney, Pixar, and Marvel fans will love the in-depth analysis. It may also suit people looking for the best music theory podcasts.

14. 'The Hamilcast: A Hamilton Podcast'

Musical theater fanatics won't find another music podcast like 'The Hamilcast.' Host Gillian Pensavalle has spoken to everyone involved in the production of 'Hamilton.' Guests range from original cast members to the crew behind the scenes. 

Episode duration: ≈ 55 minutes.

What to expect? Listeners learn what it takes to bring the show to a global audience, how it came to be, and its impact on fans and cast alike. Are you interested in Hamilton's history and how creator Lin-Manuel Miranda achieved success? Listen to our summary of Hamilton: The Revolution on the Headway app.

Best music podcasts for artist interviews

Whatever type of music lover you are, everyone has a favorite artist or band. Interviews are an exciting way to hear from those icons and connect beyond their music. The music podcasts below make these interviews more accessible and intimate.

15. 'No Effects'

Although this podcast by Jesse Cohen is no longer in production, it's intriguing to hear about artists' journeys to success. You'll enjoy candid chats and thoughtful questions. If you're looking for podcasts for musicians and fans alike, check out the backlog of 'No Effects.'

Episode duration: ≈ 55 minutes.

What to expect? Topics like growing up, navigating the music industry, and even how a person's adolescence shaped their path to success. The podcast also features famous people such as Nila, Chromeo, Phoebe Bridgers, Computer Magic, and others.

16. 'Questlove Supreme' 

Join Questlove, the legendary drummer of The Roots, for refreshing chats within the music industry. These long-form talks feature artists from various spaces, including hip-hop, soul, gospel, rock, and pop music. You may only know a few, making this an excellent place to find new sounds and voices. 

Episode duration: ≈ 130 minutes.

What to expect? Exclusive! 'Questlove Supreme' has interviewed unmistakable guests, such as Usher, Queen of Percussion Sheila E., and even figures outside the music world like Malcolm Gladwell and Michelle Obama.

Best music analysis podcasts

Perhaps you're studying music or simply a self-proclaimed music geek; either way, you'll appreciate these music podcast suggestions. Tune into a music analysis podcast to hear the process of making a song and what determined its hit status.

17. 'Dissect'

It's all in the name. The host, Cole Cuchna, dissects a single album in immense detail every season. Episodes are laser-focused on one song at a time, aiming to uncover the meaning behind the track. 

Episode duration: ≈ 100 minutes.

What to expect? Artists discussed on the show include Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and Tyler, the Creator, to name a few. It's a music analysis podcast for lovers of modern tunes rooted in hip-hop and America's evolving musical landscape.

18. 'Punch Up the Jam'

It's time to inject some comedy into these shows. 'Punch Up The Jam' isn't your usual music analysis podcast. Instead, the comedic hosts aim to celebrate and recreate popular music. 

Episode duration: ≈ 70 minutes.

What to expect? The Gregory Brothers, Andrew and Evan, invite their guests to choose a song, review it, and revise it. It's a hilarious way to enjoy beloved tunes, such as 'Boulevard of Broken Dreams' and 'Y.M.C.A.' Although it may not be your go-to music production podcast, it is lighthearted and entertaining! 

19. 'Bandsplain' 

Yasi Salek hosts this final music podcast, and it's a great one. Fans of detailed, long-form conversations should tune in to the 'Bandsplain' podcast. Salek leads the talks to help you realize which artists are worth your time. However, somewhat ironically, the episodes can stretch to three hours (sometimes with multiple parts!).

Episode duration: ≈ 140 minutes.

What to expect? In the 'Bandsplain' podcast, an expert explains why people love an artist or band by sharing a carefully selected playlist. Yes, you read that right; this is a music podcast with actual music! It's the ultimate music review podcast that lets you listen to some tunes while learning about them. 

Stop listening, start learning with Headway

To take your music knowledge to the next level, why not check out some of our best non-fiction summaries of your favorite artists' works? For instance, you can dive into memoirs from music legends like Will Smith. Alternatively, numerous works can help you unleash your creativity and inner artist.

Headway is an excellent option for those wishing to learn quick insights and decide which work to read in full. So, if you want a quick and easy way to expand your knowledge on the go, download Headway today!