TPU118 – Sonic Inspirations: Crafting Engaging Episodes Using Music in Podcasts

Did you know that there are better and more effective ways of using music in podcasts, in addition to using them in your podcast intro and outro?

Using music in the right way adds to the production value of your show and can help hook your audience.

In this episode, we will talk about a few interesting ways of using music in your podcast and how it can help add to the production value.

Today’s episode is based on some experimentation and tests that we did on our podcasts and that is why it is something you would surely love, just as I did when recording this one.

This episode is all about music – The Best and Creative Ways of Using Music in Podcasts.

We have all heard nice and soul-stirring music in most podcasts, especially the intro jingle and the outros.

But there are even more creative ways that you can use music in your podcast. And that is what we are going to discuss in this episode.

So, let’s get grooving!

Imagine that you hit play on a podcast, and the intro music starts. It’s catchy, it’s engaging, and it instantly sets the tone for what’s to come. And you get hooked on the show.

Before you realize it, you have already spent an hour listening to a conversation.

That’s the magic of music in podcasting. It’s like the opening scene of a blockbuster movie – it grabs your audience’s attention and makes them eager for more.

Podcasters have been using music in their intros for years now and it has become an integral part of podcasting these days.

But before we start using music blindly, there is something important that you need to keep in mind when choosing music for podcasts – legal considerations.

It’s essential to use music that you have the right to. Copyright issues can lead to complications, so always ensure you have the proper licenses or use royalty-free music.

So if you are unsure where to find good music, then you might want to listen to episode # 33, where I discuss the topic of legal ways of finding music for your podcast.

Now, let’s get to the fun part!

Creative Ways of Using Music in Podcasts

There is no hard and fast rule on how to incorporate music in podcasts.

We have experimented with quite a few things in the past. Some things work and some don’t.

You can then decide to continue with what is working and discard what isn’t working.

One of the things that we have continued to do in our other podcast, “The Tastes of India” is to use a piece of background music.

When we started off, we weren’t using an amazing-quality microphone. Our microphone would capture a lot of the background noise and we just couldn’t manage to remove those.

So what we did is to use a piece of background music and then use the auto-duck feature to manage it with the vocals.

This worked really well for us. And there was a point when we stopped using the background music and our listeners came back to us requesting to keep it on.

Below, I will share a few such methods for enhancing podcasts with music. Follow the ones that you feel will work for your show.

Episode Segmentation:

Think of your podcast as a journey with various stops. Use different music tracks to mark these transitions between segments.

This can be especially useful if your show covers multiple topics or has distinct sections. The music acts as a sonic signpost, helping your listeners stay engaged and understand the flow of your content.

So If your show has different segments, then using a piece of music to segment them is an excellent way of keeping your audience hooked.

Theme Music:

Just like a TV show has a catchy theme song, your podcast can have its own signature theme.

This music plays at the beginning of each episode, creating a sense of familiarity and professionalism.

It’s like the curtain opening for a captivating performance.

Over a period of time, your audience will start to relate to your show with your signature music and that in itself will play a big role in hooking them to your show.

Emotional Enhancer:

Music has a powerful ability to evoke emotions.

When you’re discussing poignant or impactful topics, carefully choose music that enhances the emotional impact of the content.

Whether it’s heartfelt, suspenseful, or thrilling, the right music can create a deeper connection with your audience.

This is especially useful if your show uses storytelling a lot.

Using the right music can also help emphasize the message that you are wanting to convey.

Guest Intros:

Make your guests feel like stars!

Create unique intro music specifically for episodes featuring guests. This personal touch not only makes your guests feel special but also adds variety to your show.

Different guests, different vibe – and the music reflects that.

Sound Effects:

Don’t limit music to background melodies.

Consider using sound effects to enhance storytelling or add humor.

If you’re recounting an adventure, add subtle background sounds that transport your listeners into the scene.

If you’re sharing a funny anecdote, a well-timed sound effect can make it even more hilarious.

This is very effective, especially in shows that are in the audio-drama and storytelling formats. Indian Noir is a classic example of how to use sound effects effectively.

Seasonal Specials:

Capture the spirit of the season!

For holiday episodes or themed content, incorporate seasonal music. It instantly gets your audience in the mood and adds a festive, special touch to your show. It’s like throwing a podcasting party!

For example, if your show is around Indian culture and you are doing a series that has anything to do with monsoons, using a nice sound effect for rain can give your audience that listening pleasure.

Dynamic Endings:

Want to leave a lasting impression?

Give your endings a musical touch.

This is where outros work amazingly well.

Most successful podcasts have been using them for years now and it gives you a nice feeling when you end a show with a piece of relatable music.

Choose music that complements the overall tone and message of your episode.

This final musical touch is what your listeners will remember as they finish listening. A dynamic ending enhances the overall impact and leaves your audience excited for the next episode.

Conclusion – Importance of Picking the Right Music

Here’s the deal: The right music can take your podcast from good to unforgettable.

It reinforces your brand, sets the mood, and leaves a lasting impression on your audience. It’s like the secret sauce that makes your podcast stand out in the crowded world of audio content.

So, take the time to select music that aligns with your podcast’s message and resonates with your listeners.

Remember, the key to successful music integration is balance.

The music should enhance your content, not overpower it.

It’s an essential tool in your podcasting arsenal, and when used thoughtfully, it can transform your show into an auditory masterpiece. So, experiment, be creative, and let the music be the magic that enhances your podcast’s production value.

And that’s a wrap, folks!

We’ve explored how music can elevate your podcast’s production value in ways you might not have considered.

Stay tuned for more fantastic podcasting tips and tricks every Tuesday. Until then, keep podcasting, stay creative, and rock on!

Show Notes:

Here’s what we discussed in the episode about using music in podcasts –

1. 7 ways of enhancing podcast with music
2. Tips on choosing music for podcasts
3. Expert tips on picking music for your podcasts.

Thank You for Joining

Thank you all for joining me on the show today.

If you enjoyed this episode then I am sure you will love some of the previous episodes as well. Pick your favorite ones and give them a listen.

The podcasting university is available on all podcasting platforms. You can pick your favorite one to listen to the show there. The links to some of the prominent ones are mentioned below.

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Recommended Resources for Podcasting

Here are some of the recommended resources for Podcasting. These are the ones that I personally use and am satisfied with and hence am recommending them.

• Acast Podcast hosting – Acast is my favorite podcast hosting company. They have excellent customer support, have a pocket-friendly plan, and even have a free option with no limits.
• Behringer Audio Interface – You will need an audio interface if you are using an XLR microphone. This is my recommended audio interface.
• Zencastr – Zencastr is the easiest option to record interviews, both audio-only and audio+video. This is a must for an interview podcast. Go to zencastr.com/pricing and use my code “thepodu” You’ll get 30 percent off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
• Audacity – This is the best and the most feature-rich free audio editing software. It gives you a lot of options while editing your interviews.
• Blue Yeti USB Microphone – My recommended microphone
• Tidycal – My recommended calendar and booking solutions
• Fusebox – Embeddable Podcast Player
• Descript – Audio Editing, Transcription and Video editing software

AMAZON DISCLOSURE: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The Podcasting University is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

MICROPHONES –

1. ATR-2100x
2. MAONO AU-HD300T : https://geni.us/ro48q
3. Maono AU-WDM01 : https://geni.us/PhZ3V2v
4. Samson Q2U – https://geni.us/k9cuk
5. Audio Technica AT 2035 – https://geni.us/g2URDI
6. Rode NT USB – https://geni.us/O6b65K
7. Shure MV7X – https://geni.us/w7rZ4

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1. Boya ByM1 Auxillary Lavelier Microphone – https://geni.us/boyabym1lav
2. Boya ByM1 Pro Lavelier Microphones – https://geni.us/boyabym1prolav
3. Digitek Wireless Microphone – https://geni.us/R3cGd
4. Boya – BYXM6 Wireless Microphone – https://geni.us/OS6gq
5. Vook Dual Channel Wireless Microphone – https://geni.us/V9YBO1i

PORTABLE RECORDERS –

1. Zoom H5 Portable Recorder – https://geni.us/rVTAIAV
2. Zoom H1N Portable Recorder – https://geni.us/dOaDg

AUDIO INTERFACE –

1. Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 – https://geni.us/gBCjm
2. M-Audio M-Track Solo – https://geni.us/RnhHr
3. HAYDEN HY-229 – https://geni.us/c80KbWB

MIXERS –

1. HAYDEN 4 Channels – https://geni.us/cXQ0
2. Behringer Q502USB

MONITORING HEADPHONES –

1. Oneodio Studio Pro-10 : https://geni.us/IQI88Se
2. Maono AU-MH501 : https://geni.us/AbNrU
3. Audio-Technica ATH-M20X : https://geni.us/eEUf9

POP-FILTER –

1. JEYANG Metal Pop Filter – https://geni.us/JMfuY
2. Wright WP 101 – https://geni.us/OcOAzj

DESK-STAND/BOOM ARM –

1. MY-STANDS MC 18 : https://geni.us/Lwnb
2. Bulfyss Professional Recording Microphone Stand: https://geni.us/mV4S

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