The Indian music scene is thriving, and so is the podcast culture around it. From deep dives into independent music and genre explorations to candid artist interviews and behind-the-scenes stories, music podcasts have become an essential platform for discovery and connection. Whether you’re a curious listener or a hardcore audiophile, these podcasts are your gateway to understanding the diverse and vibrant world of Indian music.
In this listicle, we bring you a curated selection of music podcasts that deserve a spot on your playlist. Tune in, turn up the volume, and let these voices guide you through India’s ever-evolving soundscape.
1. The Music Podcast
Hosted by Tarsame Mittal, The Music Podcast takes you on a journey behind the scenes of the Indian music industry. From candid chats with celebrated artists to insights from rising stars and industry experts, this podcast is a treasure trove for music lovers and curious minds alike. Dive into the making of chart-topping hits, explore the challenges musicians face, and discover how the ever-evolving industry shapes its soundscapes. With over two decades of experience, Tarsame brings rich stories and engaging conversations to the table, making this podcast a true celebration of music and its creators.
2. The Indian Music Charts Podcast
If you’re a music enthusiast with a knack for staying updated on the latest tracks, The Indian Music Charts Podcast is your go-to. Hosted by Amit Gurbaxani, one of India’s top music journalists, and content marketeer extraordinaire Akhila Shankar, this podcast dives deep into India’s music charts. They go beyond the numbers, breaking down why certain songs strike a chord with listeners and using data to explore broader trends in the Indian music industry. Packed with insightful analysis, thought-provoking discourse, and a dash of nerdy fun, new episodes drop every Tuesday, perfect for anyone curious about where the music scene is headed next.
3. Lex Talk Music
Lex Talk Music, hosted by Sandhya Surendran, dives deep into the artistry, creativity, and challenges of making music in India. Through candid conversations with independent artists, producers, and songwriters, the podcast unpacks the behind-the-scenes reality of the music industry- from the creative process to navigating its legal and business intricacies. Whether you’re an aspiring musician, a songwriter, an artist manager, or simply curious about the industry, this podcast offers a wealth of insight and inspiration. It’s ideal for anyone looking to understand the heart, hustle, and hard work behind the music industry.
4. Maed in India
Hosted by Mae Mariyam Thomas, a music enthusiast and ex-radio presenter, this podcast has been shining a light on South Asia’s incredible indie talent since 2015. From shoegaze bands in Chandigarh to folk quartets in Kohima, Tamil indie-pop acts in Madurai to rappers in Kashmir, Maed in India curates an eclectic mix of live performances, artist interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories. With its immersive live sessions and unreleased tracks, this podcast is more than a show- it’s an ever-growing archive celebrating the diversity and creativity of indie music.
5. The Indoencers
The Indoencers is a one-of-a-kind podcast celebrating the fusion of Indian culture and global music influences. Through engaging conversations with artists who weave Indian sounds into contemporary genres, this podcast explores the dynamic collision of tradition and modernity that shapes groundbreaking music. A labour of love and passion for Indian music, The Indoencers is more than just a podcast, it’s a non-profit platform and community for music enthusiasts. Whether you’re deeply familiar with Indian music or just discovering its magic, this show invites you to connect, share, and be inspired by the stories of musicians who redefine how the world experiences sound.
6. ConverSAtions with Indian Musicians and Sound Engineers
ConverSAtions with Indian Musicians and Sound Engineers takes you behind the scenes of India’s music industry, shining a spotlight on the unsung heroes- sound engineers, producers, and musicians, who craft the tracks we love. Hosted by Aditya Nikhil Mehta, this podcast delves into the art of music production, the intricacies of sound engineering, and the stories behind the music. Featuring intimate conversations, industry insights, and expert takes on Indian copyright law, it’s a must-listen for anyone curious about the technical and creative sides of music. With episodes in English, Hindi, and selected episodes in regional languages, this podcast offers a rich, multilingual exploration of the evolving Indian music scene.
7. Diminished Vibes
Diminished Vibes is the go-to podcast for fans of alternative and experimental music. Celebrating niche genres and underground artists from India, this podcast introduces listeners to sounds that break free from the mainstream. With a blend of Indian and Western influences, hosts dive into topics ranging from music history and culture to personal stories and lesser-known bands. True to its name, Diminished Vibes thrives on the unresolved, sparking meaningful yet lighthearted conversations about music that leaves an impact. Delivered in English and Hindi, it’s perfect for anyone looking to broaden their musical horizons while enjoying a dash of quirky, relatable banter.
8. The Sodhi Show
The Sodhi Show is the ultimate hangout for anyone interested in the intersection of business, Indian music, and culture. This podcast delivers a perfect mix of engaging interviews and insightful discussions that cover everything from emerging business trends to the latest happenings in the music industry and beyond. Whether you’re into the business side of music or just love exploring new cultural phenomena, The Sodhi Show brings you fresh, diverse content every time. It’s a must-listen for those who want to stay in the loop and see the world through new perspectives.
Each of these podcasts offers a unique perspective on Indian music, from the indie scene to experimental sounds. They celebrate the diverse musical landscape of India and provide invaluable insights for fans and aspiring musicians. So, plug in your earphones, hit play, and let these podcasts take you on a musical journey!
