Do I need podcast music?
There's no rule that your show needs music. Many podcasters add it at the start and end for polish, professionalism, and identity — but it's optional.
Music can add an extra layer of production, professionalism, and identity. Most shows stick a bit at the beginning and the end. That's usually all you need.
Be wary of letting music play on its own for more than ten seconds. TV and film get away with it because of the visuals — in audio, your listener plugged in to hear you, not an extended cut of your theme tune.
Music as a transition or as a bed under speech is fine. For most podcasters, anything more is overkill — and risks annoying the listener rather than impressing them.
Your task
Do you actually need music?
Four quick questions on whether music helps your show.
Question 1 of 4