Learn some of the best ways to prepare for a podcast interview with a musical guest, from choosing a format to testing your equipment.

Have clarity around the goal you have for the conversation. If you want them to play a song, be sure they are ready on their end when it’s time. Also, get a heads up about what they would like to highlight or discuss and what they don’t want to talk about. I’ve found that pulling out pieces of their journey really lights them up and will help others see into their world as a musician.

What are the best ways to prepare for a podcast interview with a musical guest?

If you are a podcaster who loves music, you might want to invite a musical guest to your show. Whether they are an established artist, an emerging talent, or a niche performer, a musical guest can add a lot of value and variety to your podcast. However, interviewing a musical guest is not the same as interviewing a non-musical one. You need to prepare differently and consider some specific aspects of the musical genre, format, and production. In this article, we will share with you some of the best ways to prepare for a podcast interview with a musical guest.

1 Know your guest

Before you reach out to a musical guest, you should do some research on their background, style, influences, and achievements. Listen to their music, read their bio, check their social media, and watch their videos. This will help you to understand their personality, preferences, and goals. You will also be able to craft more relevant, engaging, and respectful questions that show your genuine interest and appreciation for their work.

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Clay Barnes, AICP

Senior Associate @ Cambridge Systematics | Transportation Planning, Policy, Research
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My guidance is based on why you are interested in interviewing them in the first place. How does it tie to your podcast's vision and goals? Look up previous interviews and think about how you can ask something meaningful to the podcast, even better if you can tie it to human experience.

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Oscar Mota Aldrete

Comentarista y productor deportivo. Social media manager
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Observa al menos tres entrevistas que el invitado haya dado a otros programas o canales digitales, piensa en una dinámica no invasiva, revisa sus redes sociales, que publica, de que habla

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2 Choose a suitable format

Depending on the type and length of your podcast, you might want to choose a different format for your interview with a musical guest. For example, you could have a live performance, a recorded session, a song-by-song analysis, a Q&A, or a mix of these. You should also decide how much music you want to include in your podcast, and how you will balance it with the conversation. You should communicate your format choice to your guest in advance, and make sure they are comfortable and prepared for it.

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Cheryl J. Moses

Thought Leadership Strategist for Diverse & Impact-Driven Brands | CEO & Founder of the #1 Media Platform Amplifying Emerging Voices | ForbesBLK | Marketing & Social Branding Specialist
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Have clarity around the goal you have for the conversation. If you want them to play a song, be sure they are ready on their end when it’s time. Also, get a heads up about what they would like to highlight or discuss and what they don’t want to talk about. I’ve found that pulling out pieces of their journey really lights them up and will help others see into their world as a musician.

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Spence C.

"If I could show you how to get more gigs, more fans and more revenue would you be interested?"
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Never assume anything. Do a systematic check list of everything you require from your guest. Send it to them at least 7 days ahead. Ask them if they have read it. (They won't have) Ask them what they thought about item #7 This will make them panic and then read it as they don't want to look stupid and ignorant. Once they reply, ask them if they have any other questions. Remind them 36 hrs before the show about the time and resend the link, remind them of the format and how long the interview will be etc. You've done all you can, it's now on them to show up and shine! Make sure you have done your research on them and ask them how to pronounce their name if it's a tricky one.

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Carla L.

Passionate about marketing strategy, project management, campaign execution, lead generating events, A/B testing, artificial intelligence, search optimization, email, talent marketing and CRM.
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It may seem obvious, but it’s not. Send a list of do’s and don’ts. Tell them they should be in a quiet space, free of interruptions, with good sound quality.

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3 Test your equipment

One of the most important aspects of interviewing a musical guest is ensuring that the sound quality is optimal. You don't want to ruin your podcast with poor audio, feedback, or background noise. Therefore, you should test your equipment before the interview, and make sure you have the right microphones, headphones, cables, and software. You should also ask your guest what equipment they will use, and if they need any special arrangements or settings. If possible, do a sound check with your guest before the interview, and adjust the levels accordingly.

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4 Respect the copyright

Another crucial aspect of interviewing a musical guest is respecting the copyright of their music. You don't want to get into legal trouble or damage your reputation by using their music without permission or attribution. Therefore, you should ask your guest for their consent and terms of use for their music, and follow them accordingly. You should also credit their music in your podcast, and provide links to their website, social media, or streaming platforms. You should also avoid using any music that is not owned by your guest, unless you have the proper license or fair use rights.

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Bettina van Wylich-Muxoll

MedTech | Digital Health | Pharma | Healthcare | SaaS | AI/ML | Tech | Marketing & Commercial Strategy Executive | Global Project Management | B2B2C | Digital Marketing
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Similarly, to comply with copyright regulations and support artists, businesses should using professional DSPs like 1000TRAX, which is fully licensed for commercial use. Platforms like Spotify are only licensed for private use, not commercial settings. By using a licensed DSP, businesses demonstrate their commitment to respecting intellectual property rights and fair compensation for artists. #RespectCopyright #MusicLicensing #SupportArtists

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5 Be flexible and creative

Finally, one of the best ways to prepare for a podcast interview with a musical guest is to be flexible and creative. You should be ready to adapt to any changes or challenges that might arise during the interview, such as technical issues, time constraints, or unexpected questions. You should also be open to exploring new topics, perspectives, or stories that your guest might share with you. You should also try to make the interview fun, lively, and memorable for both your guest and your audience.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Carla L.

Passionate about marketing strategy, project management, campaign execution, lead generating events, A/B testing, artificial intelligence, search optimization, email, talent marketing and CRM.
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Check where they are playing and include show dates in your conversation. Then speak about the show, the venue, parking and things to do in the area. Give listeners reasons to go to the show.

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What are the best ways to prepare for a podcast interview with a musical guest?

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1 Know your guest

2 Choose a suitable format

3 Test your equipment

4 Respect the copyright

5 Be flexible and creative

6 Here’s what else to consider

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