Music for Podcasts

Podcast Music FAQ

What is the beeep sound I hear, and will it stay after the purchase?

That beep sound is a watermark protection from illegal use. It's present in a preview only, and purchased music has a crystal clear sound without it.

Why should I use music in my podcasts?

Using music can make your podcast more engaging and professional. It helps set the tone, create transitions, and highlight important moments while providing a more immersive listening experience.

How can I add music to my podcast?

You can add music using audio editing software such as Audacity, GarageBand, or Adobe Audition. Import your audio tracks and arrange them along with your spoken content on the timeline.

Can I customize music for my podcast's needs?

Yes, customizing podcast music to align with your podcast identity is a great way to enhance the listener's experience. You can edit / cut in any way to combine with your voice over and other music / sounds.

How loud should background music be in a podcast?

Background music should be subtle and not overpower the spoken content. Setting the music to a lower volume level than the voice track is recommended.

Can I use popular songs in my podcast?

You can, but you must legally obtain the licenses to use popular songs. Without proper permissions, you risk infringing on copyright laws.

What is royalty-free music?

Royalty-free music refers to tracks that you can use without paying recurring fees. You either get them for free or pay a one-time fee for the license to use them in your projects.

How long should the intro and outro music be in a podcast?

Podcast intros and outros should be concise, ranging from 10 to 30 seconds. It's enough to set the mood without delaying the content.

What should I look for when selecting music for my podcast?

Look for music that complements your podcast's theme and tone, has the right tempo, and doesn't distract from the spoken content. Also, ensure that it is legally available for use.

Is there a specific format I should use for music files in my podcast?

MP3 is the most common format for podcast audio due to its balance of quality and file size. WAV can also be used for higher quality, but it results in larger files.

How do I balance voice and music volumes effectively?

Use audio editing software to adjust the levels of your voice and music tracks. Typically, the voice should be prominent, with the music playing subtly in the background.

Can I change the music I use in each episode of my podcast?

Yes, you can. However, using a consistent intro and outro can help build brand identity. Changing background music based on episode themes can also be effective.

Is it distracting to have music playing throughout an entire podcast episode?

It can be, if not done correctly. If music is too loud or doesn't complement the content, it can be distracting. Sometimes, silence or ambient sounds are more effective.

Should I tailor the music to my target audience?

Absolutely. Knowing your audience and their preferences will help select music that resonates with them and enhances their engagement.

Can I use music to create transitions between segments in my podcast?

Yes, using short musical interludes can signal transitions between segments, providing structure and a more polished feel to your podcast.

Should the outro music be different from the intro music?

It's a stylistic choice. Some podcasts use the same music for consistency, while others use different tracks to signify the closing of an episode.

What are some best practices for combining voiceover with music?

Keep the music volume low during voiceovers, choose instrumental tracks that don't clash with the voice, and use fade-ins and fade-outs for smooth transitions.

How can I get feedback on the music choices for my podcast?

Encourage your listeners to leave reviews or comments, conduct polls on social media, or reach out to a select group of listeners for more detailed feedback.