How to Choose the Best Music for Your Podcast
You know that feeling when you are watching a great movie and the music makes you really feel immersed in the story?
Maybe it’s a sad scene and the slow, emotive tune is almost bringing a tear to your eye.
Or it’s a happy scene, and the uplifting melody makes you want to smile or laugh.
Podcast music can do the same thing.
The audio you choose sets the tone for your show.
It’s a great way to grip your audience, separate segments, and make your show one-of-a-kind.
The tracks you choose will generally be used in the intro, the outro, and transitions between segments.
Intro Music
The intro plays at the very beginning of your show and usually fades out as the episode content starts to fade in.
It’s generally the first piece of audio that the listener hears, so it’s important to create the mood that represents your show.
It may be helpful to think of your podcast as not only a storytelling opportunity but also as your brand.
Your brand should be quickly recognizable to both regular listeners and those that are listening in for the first time.
Radiolab does a great job of this.
They start each episode with a short electronic sample and a voice actor saying “Listener-supported, WNYC Studios.”
If you are a new listener this brief intro immediately showcases the curiosity-bending world of Radiolab.
If you are a regular listener, this sound is quickly identifiable.
Think of a memorable way to introduce your show and find music that fits your theme.
Outro Music
The outro is the track that will play at the very end of the episode.
For the outro, you can choose the same music you used for the intro or you can choose a different track that helps you end the podcast track on the note that you want.
You can also use the outro music to record your end credits over.
This may include thanking your audience for listening, directing them to your website, or giving them a call to action.
This should give the listener a feeling of closure, so they’ll know the episode is done.
Michelle Skeldon, is a great example of using the same music for both the intro and the outro.
In her podcast, Be More. Make More., she has an upbeat sample that plays at the beginning of the show as she introduces the episode and the same track plays for a short period of time as she closes the episode.
Remember to pick something that suits the mood of your show.
Segment Transition Music
Some shows also incorporate segment transition music.
This music signifies that you’ve finished one segment and are moving on to the next.
Segment transition music works best for shows that record multiple parts or interviews separately, as it can hide the difference in sound quality.
These music transitions are entirely up to you and are not completely necessary.
To decide if you want to use segment transition music, you can listen to several podcasts and see how different hosts use these in their own shows.
A great example of this is This American Life.
They use musical transitions between interviews, segments, or stories.
It’s a great way to engage your audience and keep them excited for more.
Why Music Matters in Podcasting
Music does more than fill the silence.
It plays a key role in shaping the listener's experience–from setting the mood to establishing your podcast’s identity and keeping your audience engaged.
Establishing Mood and Tone
The music you choose sets the emotional stage for your podcast.
Are you hosting a lighthearted comedy show or an investigative true-crime series?
Each genre demands a different musical vibe to match its tone.
Reinforcing Branding
Your podcast’s theme music is like an audio logo. It makes your podcast instantly recognizable and helps build a consistent identity.
Listeners will associate the sound with your brand, so picking the right music is crucial.
Enhancing Listener Engagement
Strategic use of music keeps listeners engaged.
Whether it’s an upbeat intro or a subtle background score during storytelling, music can keep attention levels high and make your content more captivating.
Where to Find Your Music
As you probably know, most popular songs are protected by copyright.
This means that you can’t use the bulk of famous songs- not even if it is only a five-second sample.
When you’re arranging music in your podcast, you need to make sure it’s music that you have the rights to use.
So, where do you even begin?
Royalty-Free Music Platforms
Royalty-free music is a popular choice because it allows podcasters to use tracks without ongoing fees. Some top platforms include:
Majority of the platforms out there offer a wide variety of tracks, unlimited downloads, and unlimited access.
Creative Commons Music
Creative Commons licenses allow artists to share their music while granting specific permissions to users.
Some websites offer free background music, but always check the license terms, as some require attribution.
Custom Compositions
If you’re aiming for a unique sound, hiring a composer to create original music can set your podcast apart.
While this option is more expensive, it ensures exclusivity and a tailor-made fit for your show.
Key Considerations When Choosing Podcast Music
Understand Your Podcast’s Personality
Think about your podcast’s core theme and audience. For example:
A tech-focused podcast might use sleek, modern electronic beats.
A storytelling podcast could opt for cinematic or orchestral music.
Define your podcast’s vibe before diving into the music selection.
Prioritize Quality and Simplicity
The music should enhance your content, not compete with it.
Avoid overly complex tracks with busy melodies or heavy vocals that can distract from your voice.
Legal Tips for Using Music
Avoid Copyright Infringement
Using copyrighted music without permission can lead to legal trouble, including fines or podcast takedowns.
Always ensure you have the proper licenses or rights to the tracks you use.
Choose the Right Licensing Option
Royalty-Free: Pay once and use the track indefinitely.
Rights-Managed: Costs vary based on usage specifics, such as duration or audience size.
Creative Commons: Free or low-cost, but often requires attribution.
Examples of Great Podcast Music
1. The Daily - The New York Times’ podcast uses a soft electronic beat intro that reflects its serious, informative tone.
2. Reply All - This tech podcast employs quirky, electronic beats that align with its investigative and humorous content.
3. Serial - The haunting score sets a mysterious tone, perfectly complementing its true-crime storytelling.
Choosing the perfect track for your podcast is a creative process that combines your brand’s personality, your audience’s preferences, and legal considerations.
Whether you opt for royalty-free tracks or a custom composition, the right music can elevate your podcast to new heights.
Take your time to experiment and refine your choices, and remember: music is more than just sound—it’s a vital part of your podcast’s storytelling and identity.
In Closing….
Don’t overthink this aspect of your show or try to overcomplicate your episodes.
You can always change the music later on if you’re not entirely happy with it.
As long as it sounds right for your brand and your show, you can’t go wrong.
Thinking of starting a podcast? Schedule a call with us to see how we can help!