For most music fans, not much beats a really good live show. Music podcasts may not be a substitute for live music, but they are a unique and exciting way to connect with the music you love. Through listening to a podcast, you can get closer to your favorite bands, gain insight into the making of your favorite songs, and find your new favorite artist. The best music podcasts are like the best liner notes—they add depth and interest. A good one might make you think about a song in a new way, introduce you to a fascinating, forgotten piece of music history, or provide the inspiration you need to start your own band or write your own song.
These are 20+ of the best music podcasts around. They're as different from one another as rock 'n' roll is from opera; some are funny and lighthearted, while others explore hefty social issues. Some focus on specific kinds of music—rap, country, classical, rock, pop—and others highlight diverse artists working in just about every musical style. Music fans are as varied as the music they listen to, but we promise there's something here for everyone.
