Music for Podcasts: Enhancing Your Show’s Appeal

Music can elevate your podcast, adding emotion and identity to your episodes. Whether you host a true crime series or a comedian’s talk show, the right sound can keep listeners engaged.

There are several resources where you can get free and paid tracks.

Websites like Buzzsprout and Riverside.fm offer various options, including royalty-free and podsafe music.

Licensing is crucial to avoid copyright issues, and many platforms provide music specifically for podcasters.

From intros to outros, you’ll need to pick tunes that enhance your content.

Licensing options and costs vary, so it’s essential to know the rules about using music in podcasts to avoid legal troubles.

Key Takeaways

• Music enhances the appeal and identity of your podcast.
• Legal and licensing options are crucial for using podcast music.
• Reliable sources offer a range of free and paid music tracks.

Create Music For Podcasts

Creating music for your podcast can set the tone and enhance the listener’s experience. Here are some tips to get started:

1. Plan Your Music Needs

• Decide when you’ll use music: intros, outros, transitions.
• Identify genres that match your podcast’s style.

2. Equipment and Software

• Use a digital audio workstation (DAW) like GarageBand or Ableton Live.
• Invest in a good microphone and audio interface for recording.

3. Involve Musicians and Producers

• Collaborate with musicians and producers, such as those who have worked with The Beatles or Taylor Swift.
• Build your team: a composer, a lyricist, and a sound engineer.

4. Embrace the Creative Process

• Experiment with different instruments to find a unique sound.
• Use vinyl records for a retro vibe, much like Bruce Springsteen.

5. Recording Techniques

• Record in a quiet environment to avoid background noise.
• Follow John Legend’s technique of layering multiple tracks for depth.

6. Look for Inspiration

• Think of how R.E.M, Dolly Parton, and The Roots create their iconic sounds.
• Analyze the music used by successful podcasts and adapt their strategies.

7. Legal Considerations

• Ensure you have the right permissions using royalty-free music sources like Freebeats or AudioJungle.

8. Test and Iterate

• Test your music with a focus group to gather feedback.
• Be open to making changes until you find the perfect fit.

How Long Should Music For Podcasts Be

Choosing the right length for your podcast music is important. Music that’s too long can overwhelm your content, while music that’s too short might feel abrupt.

Intro and Outro Music

• Intro music: Typically, aim for about 15-30 seconds. This gives listeners a moment to settle in without delaying your content.
• Outro music: This can also be around 15-30 seconds, providing a neat ending.

Background Music

• Segment music: If you use music between sections, keep it brief, around 5-10 seconds. This helps maintain flow.
• Underscore music: When playing softly under speech, it should be long enough to last through the segment but not distract from what’s being said.

Considerations

• Favorite song: When you feel attached to a certain tune, make sure it fits these timeframes.
• Best decade for music: Different decades have different styles. Match the length to the feel of your show.
• Breathe: Allow pauses and breathing space in your podcast. Avoid constant background music.

How To Add Music To Podcasts

Adding music to your podcast can enhance your podcasting experience and make it more engaging.

1. Choose the Right Music
   Select tracks that match your podcast’s tone. Consider using royalty-free music from sites like Free Music Archive or Pond5.
2. Edit with Software
   Use editing software such as Audacity, GarageBand, or Adobe Audition. These programs allow you to add music, adjust levels, and apply fades.
3. Import Your Music
   Open your chosen software and import your music file. Drag the file to the timeline where you want the music to start.
4. Adjust Volume Levels
   Balance the volume between your music and dialogue. Music should be loud enough to hear but not overshadow your voice. Headphones help ensure you get the levels right.
5. Fade In and Out
   Use fade-in and fade-out effects to smoothly introduce and end your music. This helps create a professional sound.
6. Mix Down and Export
   Once you’re satisfied with the mix, export the file as an MP3 or WAV. Make sure to review the final version to check for any issues.

How To Choose Music For Podcasts

Choosing the right music for your podcast can make a significant difference. Here’s how you can do it effectively:

1. Consider Your Podcast’s Genre:

Your podcast’s genre plays a key role. For instance, a true crime series might need suspenseful music. On the other hand, a tech talk show might benefit from more upbeat tunes. Check out this guide to learn more about matching music with your podcast genre.

2. Set the Right Tone:

Your podcast’s intro music sets the tone for the entire episode. High-quality audio is crucial as audiences expect it now. Read more on setting the tone here.

3. Focus on Emotion:

Music should enhance the emotion of your segments. Consider what feeling you want to evoke—whether it’s excitement, joy, or calmness. The music should guide your listeners through different parts of your podcast.

4. Less Is More:

Don’t let the music overpower your voice. It should support, not overshadow, your content. Choose background music that conveys the mood without being too distracting. For more tips, visit this site.

5. Use Reliable Sources:

Use platforms that permit music for podcasts. Some reliable sites include Fugue Music by Icons8 and Free Music Archive. These platforms offer both free and paid options. Learn more here.

6. Artist Interviews and Theory:

Sometimes, interviews with songwriters or musicologists can provide insight. Understanding music theory can also help you choose pieces that fit your podcast’s mood better.

Importance Of Music For Podcasts

Music plays a key role in making your podcast engaging. It can grab listeners’ attention from the start and keep them interested throughout.

Music sets the tone and mood. The right track can enhance your message, whether you are talking about music history or the latest music news.

Using theme music creates a consistent brand identity. Shows like Tiny Desk Concerts and Rolling Stone Music Now have distinct tunes that listeners recognize immediately.

Music can break up long segments. This keeps your audience engaged, preventing their interest from waning. Tracks can signal changes in topics, like in Lost Notes or All Songs Considered.

Podcasts about music need to showcase tracks. Shows like NPR Music and KCRW provide music discovery, exposing listeners to new artists and songs.

Even industry insiders like The Ringer and Spin use music to enhance the listening experience. They use tracks to emphasize key points and add variety to their shows.

Podcast Music Cost

When planning your podcast, it’s essential to consider the costs associated with using music. Podcast music can vary widely in price depending on the source and type of licensing required.

Free Music Options

• Freebeats: Offers free tracks for hip hop, EDM, and electronic music. You need to follow them on social media and provide credit.
• Audionautix: Provides a variety of background music at no cost.

Paid Music Options

• Track Club: Subscriptions start at just $12 a month, providing high-quality music for frequent content creators.
• PremiumBeat: Known for its extensive library of around 17,000 songs, it offers licenses to use their music for podcasts.
• Themusicase: Provides a curated collection of podcast music intros. Pricing is based on the specific licensing needs for commercial use across platforms.

License Costs

Typical costs for licensing a single song can vary. Here’s a breakdown:

• Single song licenses may range from a few dollars for basic usage to hundreds for commercial purposes.
• Subscription-based services often provide more value, especially for high-volume content creators needing access to a large music library.

Using music in your podcast can enhance the listening experience, but it’s important to budget accordingly and understand the different pricing models available.

Podcast Music License

To use music in your podcast, you need a podcast music license. This ensures you have permission to play the music legally.

Different types of licenses are required depending on the scenario. The most common types are synchronization licenses and master-use licenses. A synchronization license allows you to sync the music to your audio, while a master-use license lets you use the recording of the music.

Here are some key points:

• Intro and Outro Music: Any music used at the beginning or end of your podcast needs a license.
• Background Music: Even if the music is just playing softly in the background, you still need to obtain proper licensing.
• Sound Effects: Any sound effects that are not created by you need to be licensed.

Examples of Licensing Costs:

Type	Cost Range
Publishing Fees	$1,500 – $2,500
Master Fees	$1,500 – $10,000

Some common myths about licensing are not true. You might have heard that using less than 10 seconds of a song is fine. This is a myth, and you must license even short clips.

Platforms like Apple Music and Spotify require synchronization and master-use licenses. For YouTube, you need both a synchronization license and a mechanical permit to include cover songs.

If you are the musician and own all the rights to your original work, you do not need to obtain a separate license.

Using Music For Your Podcast

Using music in your podcast can make it more engaging and memorable. Here are a few tips to help you integrate music effectively.

Theme Music

Having theme music can give your podcast a distinct identity. It acts like an auditory logo, setting the tone for your episodes. For instance, podcasts like Song Exploder use memorable tunes to draw in listeners right from the start.

Background Music

Background music can help maintain a mood or underscore a particular segment. Shows like Dissect use it to enhance storytelling without overpowering the dialogue. Make sure the volume is low enough so listeners can clearly hear your voice.

Transitions

Transition music can smooth the flow between segments. For example, in Questlove Supreme, brief musical interludes help signal a shift in topics, making the podcast easier to follow.

Legal Considerations

Ensure you have proper licenses for any music you use. Royalty-free music is a great option to avoid legal issues. Check platforms like Snapmuse or Riverside.fm for free or paid music tracks.

Interview Podcasts

Music can also enhance interview podcasts. Shows like Broken Record, hosted by Rick Rubin and Malcolm Gladwell, use music to highlight key points discussed in interviews.

What Is Music For Podcasts

Music for podcasts serves as an integral component that shapes the overall mood and identity of your show.

Types of Music for Podcasts:

• Theme Music: This is your podcast’s signature sound. It introduces your podcast and plays between segments or at the end.
• Background Music: This music plays softly behind your voice, adding depth and keeping listeners engaged.

Popular Genres:

1. Pop Music: Upbeat and catchy, pop songs can give your podcast a lively vibe.
2. Rock: Ideal for adding energy and intensity.
3. Electronic Music: Perfect for a modern and sleek feel.
4. Indie: Offers a unique and often mellow atmosphere.
5. Hip-Hop and R&B: Great for adding rhythm and soul.

Choosing the Right Music:

Selecting the right genre can greatly influence how your audience perceives your podcast. For example, using country music might evoke a laid-back, rustic feel, while alternative music can create an edgy and unconventional tone.

Where to Find Music:

• You can explore various royalty-free music sources that offer both free and paid options.
• Platforms like Music for Makers also provide curated tracks designed for podcast use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing and using music for your podcast involves understanding legal requirements, finding quality sources, and selecting tracks that enhance your content.

How can I legally use music for my podcast?

To use music legally, you need to get permission from the copyright holder. This often means purchasing a license. Many artists sell licenses directly or through platforms like SongFreedom and AudioJungle. Stay clear of copyrighted music unless you have explicit permission.

What are the best sources for free podcast music?

Free music can be found on sites like Free Music Archive and Public Domain 4U. These sources offer tracks that are either in the public domain or licensed under Creative Commons, allowing you to use them without paying fees. Make sure to read the licensing terms carefully.

Where can I find high-quality background music suitable for podcasts?

High-quality background music is available on platforms like PremiumBeat and Epidemic Sound. These sites offer a wide variety of genres and moods, letting you choose tracks that perfectly fit your podcast. Subscriptions might be required, but the quality is worth it.

How do I choose the right music for my podcast intro?

Pick music that captures the essence of your podcast. It should be memorable and set the right tone.

Consider the tempo and genre. For example, upbeat music works well for energetic shows, while softer tracks might suit more serious or reflective podcasts.

Can I use Creative Commons licensed music for my podcast, and if so, how?

Yes, you can use Creative Commons licensed music. Websites like Free Music Archive and Jamendo offer a wide range of tracks.

Always check the specific license type. Some may require you to credit the artist or restrict commercial use.

What should I consider when selecting music to ensure it enhances my podcast?

First, think about your podcast’s theme and audience. The music should complement these elements.

Second, the music should not overpower your voice.

Third, using similar music can help build your brand’s identity. Make sure it fits seamlessly into your production.

What Music Should I Use For A Podcast?

Music is one of the most important elements of your podcast. It can either improve or ruin your listener’s experience.

The right type of music for your intro, main theme and outro can help to bring across your message. 

It should also match with your podcast brand and the subject you are talking about.

In this article, we find out everything you need to know about podcast music, copyright for music and what music you should use for your podcast.

Why Is Music Important In A Podcast?

Before we find out more about the exact type of music that you can use for your show, let’s explore a bit what role music plays in a podcast.

Music in a podcast isn’t just to keep listeners entertained during the quiet moments. There are three key roles that music plays in podcasts.

Music Engages Your Audience

Music has inspired us for thousands of years. It makes us dance and it tells a story. Music speaks to our emotions and feelings. This is what makes it so powerful.

When you choose a good tune for your podcast, then you can engage your audience much easier.

Tune into what emotions your theme and subject conveys. Is your podcast more light-hearted? Then it’s good to use something upbeat and happy.

Music Marks Important Spots In Your Show

When you put a podcast together, then you are effectively telling a narrative that starts with an intro, continues into a main part and ends with an outro.

Between all these essential parts, you may want to include a disclaimer or a quick mention of your supporters.

You can highlight these important spots in your episode with a piece of music. 

When you pick the right short tune, your audience will notice that you will talk about something important next.

Music Relates To Your Topic

The right music for your podcast depends on your brand, tone of voice and the theme of the podcast show.

You need to make sure that whatever music you pick, it should relate to what you are talking about.

This could be a well-known tune that everyone knows or it could be just a quiet piece with certain lyrics that connect to your podcast theme.

Audio Segments Make Editing Easier

Editing your podcast is a time-consuming process, especially when you have a number of different people talking.

You need to make sure that everything sounds professional, including any musical transitions.

Music is much easier to cut and edit. You can also use it to make an audio section more compelling.

You also need to keep in mind that your audio should be easily editable, so you don’t want too many little tunes that would take you hours to cut.

How To Choose Your Podcast Music

One of the most important things to remember when you choose your podcast music is typically the legal side.

You should use “podsafe” music. These are tunes or songs that you can legally use on your podcast because the artist, band or record label has given permission for the piece to be used.

There are a variety of podsafe music networks, including Podcastmusic.blubrry.com, Free Music Archive and Instant Music Now.

You will need to select music for three main parts of your podcast and optionally a short tune for any transitions.

Let’s take a look at what music you can choose for the intro, main part and outro of your show.

Pick Music For Your Podcast Intro

Your podcast intro should begin with your theme music. This is the first what your audience will hear, and we all know that first impressions are important.

Your intro theme music should be easy to identify for all listeners, from your regular audience to new listeners.

It’s worth listening to some similar podcasts to yours and identify a few tunes that could work for your show.

Depending on your theme, you could consider different radio sound effects that are often popular with listeners.

If your podcast is along the lines of comedy, then you can go with something fun and quirky.

Whatever them music you choose for your intro, experts don’t recommend using free music as this is often used by other podcasts.

That’s why, when you are looking for your podcast show music, make sure that it is iconic and individual to your show.

Select A Piece Of Music For Your Main Content

Many podcasters often say that finding music for the introduction is the difficult part, while the right music for the main content section is much easier.

That’s because you can use many different music types for this part, as long as it is still grouped around the atmosphere and emotions of your theme.

When you are looking for sound effects and music, royalty-free music platforms typically allow you to refine your search to certain music styles, genres and instruments.

For example, you can opt for dark, electronic music when you want to create tension, such as before an important announcement.

Alternatively, you can also look for individual sound effects, like some airy music with the sound of wind.

Many royalty-free music websites try to give you a variety of options that help to find the right music matching your show. It just takes a little bit of trying what works for you.

How To Use Copyrighted Music In Podcast

Choose Your Podcast Outro Music

There are a couple of different options when it comes to choosing the right outro music. 

You can replay parts of your intro music to bring the whole theme of the episode together. This will create a nicely rounded theme.

As an alternative, you could use another musical cue or a different song to end the episode. This could be almost anything, from foreboding and exciting to uplifting.

It can help your listeners to look forward to the next episode and tune in next time.

This being said, it’s best to return to your theme music for the end credits where you mention your interview guests and hosts.

After all, the theme music is part of your brand and you want your audience to remember this until they tune in next time.

Music For Transitions

When you start producing your podcasts, it’s best to keep your music as simple as possible.

This usually involves just the right music for your intro, main segment and outro. 

Once you understand this better, you are ready to take a closer look at music for any ad spots or transitions.

While you don’t necessarily need to include musical transitions, it makes your podcast sound more professional.

Plus, these musical cues are a great way to make your sponsors, ads or other important mentions stand out to your listeners.

What type of music you want to use for your transition depends on your main theme. It’s worthwhile listening to music examples and play around with a few options.

Where To Find Podcast Music

There are a lot of different resources where you can find podcast music for you. 

For podcast beginners, it’s a good idea to start out with royalty-free music platforms where you can search and filter different tunes.

This makes it slightly easier to find the right music for your type of podcast. This being said, if you know a band or you love music, then you can also get some custom music.

Royalty-Free Music Platforms

As podcasts are becoming ever more popular, the number of platforms that offer royalty-free and podsafe music has grown a lot in the past years.

Some websites that offer music for podcasts are Pixabay, Youtube Audio Library and Purple Planet.

Make sure that you take a close look at how you can use the music from these platforms. 

Some of them require you to add credits, while others allow you to use the music only under certain conditions.

Local Musicians

Another great way to get the right music for your podcast is by speaking to a few local bands and musicians.

There are always some newcomer bands that are looking for a chance to get exposure. 

Check the local newspaper or arts websites that might be able to connect you with local talent.

The advantage of working with musicians directly is that you can ensure that the tune is royalty-free. This means that you don’t have to worry about the legal side.

However, it can be worthwhile putting all agreements in a short contract.

How Can I Add Music To My Podcast?

Custom Music Composition

If you are a budding musician or you really want a piece of music that makes your podcast stand out, then it’s a good idea to ask musicians for a custom composition.

These custom pieces are individually made for your podcast theme and you can be sure that no one else has the same music.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are still thinking about a podcast theme or you are totally new to podcasting, it’s best to start with some simple music.

Just use some basic ambient music that matches with your theme.