10 Music Podcasts You Should Be Listening To
Since their introduction back in the mid-2000s, podcasts have placed the power of broadcasting into the hands of Average Joes, on-air veterans and popular music acts, all of whom continue to utilize the platform for spreading their love of entertainment. This success on Internet radio paved the way for these digital audio files to blow, with music being one of the more popular categories during these past few years. Whether it’s celebrity interviews or breaking never-before-heard records, these familiar and newbie disc jockeys are giving us the 411 on what’s happening in the biz. Listen up as we put you on to the 10 music podcasts you should be listening to.
The Combat Jack Show
Veteran journalist and OG to the culture, Reggie Osse has garnered respect in the industry for his stellar work with numerous urban publications, including The Source, so if the man knows anything, it’s hip-hop. The Combat Jack Show has featured nearly every major act in the industry, past and present, making for some of the most entertaining and in-depth interviews available. Each new episode just gets bigger with talent, as we’ve witnessed special guests like Common, Ice-T, Russell Simmons, and Young Jeezy make their way through.
Microphone Check
Who knew NPR was up on their hip-hop like that? It turns out the national syndicator produces one of the best hip-hop podcasts out there. Microphone Check brings forth all the latest happenings in the industry while broadcasting original, innovative features rich in historical value. NPR music editor Frannie Kelley and A Tribe Called Quest’s own Ali Shaheed Muhammed share their knowledge on the culture, and host panels with some of the best in the biz.
Sound Opinions
Most of us value expert opinions, especially when it comes to music. The Chicago-based broadcast welcomes popular music critics to debate new releases and discuss recent music news. Sound Opinions also delivers album and concert reviews from across all major music genres. Listen to spirited conversations regarding top trending artists, and learn what’s worth uploading to your iTunes catalog.
Above & Beyond
The weekly two-hour program has gained notoriety for showcasing some of the hottest electronic music across the globe. Hosted by the London DJ Trio of the same name, Above & Beyond balances everything from progressive to trance, plus integrates 30-minute guest mixes from major acts on the international front. Some of the track lists featured on the podcast have found their way into rotation at house parties.
Soulection
Are you familiar with the future sounds genre? You should be. Bringing the best in hip-hop, R&B and neo-soul, Soulection allows listeners to bask in all three resonances over three-hour broadcasts. The podcast serves as a digital record label boasting its own roster of DJs and producers. It’s a breeding ground for up-and-upcomers seeking exposure.
Future Beats Show
Another popular future sounds and R&B podcast, the Future Beats Show caters to soulful listeners with a palate for fresh talent and new music. The program even offers dating advice and how to deal with exes. It’s had only one year in syndication and it’s already considered one of the lead channels for rising artists. Open your eardrums — you just might discover the next Frank Ocean.
All Songs Considered
This NPR program is a haven for discovering contemporary music. Each episode plays a mix of independent and retro songs with added commentary from the hosts. One of the cooler offerings here is the staff’s assembled playlists based on popular selections being released out of South by Southwest, plus seasonal music previews and end-of-year roundups.
The Sounds in My Head
The Sounds in My Head is a one-man operation, an all-music show curated by its host, Daniel (he doesn’t give a last name), who makes it known he’s paid for every track broadcasted. That alone shows his commitment not only to the show, but also to good music. Occasionally, he’ll schedule themed episodes or invite special guests to share their musical tastings, such as authors, columnists and designers. However, it is Daniel’s tune selection that gives the podcast mass appeal.
Morning Becomes Eclectic
Whether it’s K-Pop from Japan or progressive synth-pop from Zimbabwe, host Jason Bentley opens up the global soundscape with his KCRW program. Morning Becomes Eclectic features new music from promising artists, interviews, and more. Established acts are placed in rotation to balance out the listening experience, and the podcast also supports live sessions performed by indie and unsigned performers.
Seattle’s KEXP Podcasts
Seattle has birthed some of the biggest rock and alternative bands of all time, including Nirvana and Pearl Jam (and it was the birthplace of a guy named Jimi Hendrix). KEXP brings you to the forefront of the alternative music scene by putting the spotlight on emerging artists from the Pacific Northwest. Trending global acts earn their airtime as well.
Since their introduction back in the mid-2000s, podcasts have placed the power of broadcasting into the hands of Average Joes, on-air veterans and popular music acts, all of whom continue to utilize the platform for spreading their love of entertainment. This success on Internet radio paved the way for these digital audio files to blow, with music being one of the more popular categories during these past few years. Whether it’s celebrity interviews or breaking never-before-heard records, these familiar and newbie disc jockeys are giving us the 411 on what’s happening in the biz. Listen up as we put you on to the 10 music podcasts you should be listening to.