Best NYTimes.com Podmaster Podcasts (2025)

1
‘Sinners,’ the Blues and Fighting for Artistic Control 1:05:59

1d ago1:05:59

1:05:59

Unpacking the Ryan Coogler movie “Sinners,” starring Michael B. Jordan, and its relationship to music, genre and gatekeeping, with guests Wesley Morris, Reggie Ugwu and James Thomas.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotif…

1
13 Songs You Didn’t Know Were Big Hits Right Now 56:16

11d ago56:16

56:16

A tour of the more surprising — and kind of anonymous — corners of the current Billboard Hot 100.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
Doechii! NewJeans! Ye! Answering Your Listener Mailbag Questions 1:10:13

22d ago1:10:13

1:10:13

Addressing some of the most urgent pop topics of the moment, including Doechii’s rise and NewJeans’ struggle, in the return of the Popcast mailbag.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Bon Iver Interview! How Justin Vernon Got Happy (It Took a Lot of Work) 1:17:22

1M ago1:17:22

1:17:22

A conversation with Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon about how the band’s surprise success led to unexpected opportunities, then emotional depletion, and now a new album of reinvention, “Sable, Fable.”Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts…

1
Is Playboi Carti Rap’s Next — or Last — Superstar? 55:36

1M ago55:36

55:36

After nearly five years of building hype, the Atlanta rapper’s 30-song third album, “Music,” has finally arrived. Let’s discuss.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
Lady Gaga Sells ‘Mayhem’ Hard. But Does It Work? 45:19

2M ago45:19

45:19

Discussing the pop star’s latest “return to form” album and whether her aggressive promotion of it adds up to anything new.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
The Oscars’ Best (and Worst!) Music Moments 37:16

2M ago37:16

37:16

From "Wicked" to Doja Cat, how the Academy Awards incorporated music into its 97th annual ceremony on Sunday, in ways both smooth and bumpy.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
RZA Interview! How He Got Wu-Tang Clan Back Together for a Final Tour 1:19:31

2M ago1:19:31

1:19:31

In an exclusive interview, RZA reveals that his pathbreaking New York rap group, which has rarely performed as a full unit, is hitting the road for the last time. Plus: ODB memories, quitting the Rage Against the Machine tour & getting banned from radio in the '90s.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to…

1
Drake’s Careful Comeback + New Music Round-Up (The Weeknd, Central Cee, Oklou & More) 1:01:13

2M ago1:01:13

1:01:13

A survey of the biggest and best albums released recently, including Drake and PartyNextDoor's “Some Sexy Songs 4 U," the Weeknd's “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” Central Cee’s “Can’t Rush Greatness,” Oklou’s “Choke Enough” and other recommendations.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe tod…

1
Kendrick Lamar’s Drake-centric Super Bowl Halftime Show: Instant Postgame Analysis! 30:27

3M ago30:27

30:27

Breaking down the Super Bowl halftime performance, including the surprise cameos and tactical deployment of "Not Like Us," in an emergency podcast immediately after the show.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Why We (Still) Think the Grammys Are Good Now 50:45

3M ago50:45

50:45

Big wins for Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar and Chappell Roan. Standout performances from Doechii and Sabrina Carpenter. A conversation about why the 2025 awards worked. Guests: Joe Coscarelli, Caryn Ganz, Jon Pareles and Lindsay Zoladz.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nyt…

1
Are the Grammys … Good Now? Beyoncé, Chappell, Billie, Kendrick & Taylor Face Off 1:20:53

3M ago1:20:53

1:20:53

Previewing the major categories and making our personal picks of who will win vs. who should win at the surprisingly relevant (!) Grammy Awards on Sunday.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
The Bob Dylan-Timothée Chalamet Connection 49:47

3M ago49:47

49:47

A conversation about “A Complete Unknown” and the power of celebrity.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
Popcast Live! Counting Down Our Favorite Music Moments of 2024 1:28:30

4M ago1:28:30

1:28:30

A final look back at some of our favorite characters, trends and micro-moments of 2024, recorded live at S.O.B.’s in New York in December. Plus: IRL listener mailbag!Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Bad Bunny Interview! His ‘Most Puerto Rican’ Album Yet, Trump Rally Response & L.A. Celeb Problems 1:00:42

4M ago1:00:42

1:00:42

Upon the release of his new album, “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” the world-conquering Latin superstar discusses why it's filled with traditional sounds and rhythms from his homeland.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Debating the Best Albums of the Year: Charli! Mk.gee! MJ! 55:47

4M ago55:47

55:47

A conversation about how peak pop stars are thinking of LPs in an increasingly singles-driven landscape. Guests: Jon Pareles and Lindsay Zoladz.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
André 3000 Interview & Surprise Newsroom Performance! 1:23:41

4M ago1:23:41

1:23:41

After a wide-ranging conversation, the rapper-turned-flutist improvised with his band in the newsroom of The New York Times.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
The Messy Modern Music Business, According to Larry Jackson 1:46:04

5M ago1:46:04

1:46:04

An interview with the record label veteran and Gamma founder, who has worked closely with Whitney Houston, Drake, Chief Keef and Lana Del Rey.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Is the Real ‘Wicked’ Movie the Press Tour? 55:28

5M ago55:28

55:28

A conversation about the musical’s transfer from stage to screen, and the lead actresses who are bringing new narratives to their roles. Guest: Joe CoscarelliUnlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Kendrick Lamar’s Never-Ending Battles 1:02:37

5M ago1:02:37

1:02:37

The Los Angeles rapper returns with his (surprise) sixth album, itching to escape his Drake drama, but still benefiting from it. Guest: Joe Coscarelli. Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
How Will Popular Culture Change in Trump’s Second Term? 51:54

5M ago51:54

51:54

His first term was marked by backlash and protest. But the president-elect has found new streams of embrace and approval. Guest: Joe Coscarelli.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Remembering Quincy Jones, a Bridge Between Genres and Generations 43:32

6M ago43:32

43:32

A conversation about his long and unique footprint in music, and how he discussed it later in his career. Guest: David Marchese.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
‘Love Is Blind’ Resets, ‘Survivor’ Stalls: A Reality TV Check-in 1:15:21

6M ago1:15:21

1:15:21

A palate-cleanse conversation about the state of legacy reality franchises, and what might come next for them. Guests: Joe Coscarelli and Caryn Ganz.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Yeat’s Chart Topper and Rage Rap’s New Wave 50:19

6M ago50:19

50:19

A conversation about the mysterious rapper’s rise and the impact of hip-hop’s splintering. Guest: Joe Coscarelli. Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
Chappell Roan’s Rocket-Ship Year 47:49

6M ago47:49

47:49

The pop star’s ascent has tested the boundaries of contemporary pop, and may create a template for a next generation. Guest: Teen Vogue's P. Claire Dodson.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
It’s Touring Season: Chappell, Sabrina and Mk.gee Hit the Stage 1:03:55

7M ago1:03:55

1:03:55

A roundup of some of the biggest and most impactful shows on the road this fall, and how live performances can shift the audience’s perception of an artist. Guest: Joe Coscarelli.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
The Cases Against Sean Combs 1:03:19

7M ago1:03:19

1:03:19

A discussion of the accusations the music mogul faces, the court of public opinion and how the entertainment press covers morally complicated figures. Guests: Ben Sisario, Julia Jacobs and Joe Coscarelli. Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Ap…

1
John Summit Interview! Accountant Turned EDM Superstar on Texting Exes & Not Getting Into Clubs 57:27

7M ago57:27

57:27

The dance music DJ and producer John Summit speaks on the return of EDM and his rise, from working as an accountant and spinning at underground parties to headlining Madison Square Garden and festivals around the world.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/po…

1
How Trump and Harris Are Courting Pop Stars (Very Differently) 40:51

7M ago40:51

40:51

A discussion about the ways in which musicians and social media stars, both mainstream and more obscure, have figured into the current presidential campaign.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Kendrick Lamar at the Super Bowl, Sabrina Carpenter on Top 1:10:30

8M ago1:10:30

1:10:30

Plus: A conversation about the career of Rich Homie Quan, who died last week.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
21 Questions With Action Bronson (Deluxe) 30:58

9M ago30:58

30:58

The rapper and gourmand answers our rapid-fire questionnaire covering the music of his childhood, how he manages stress, his go-to bodega order and more.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Who Is Eminem for in 2024? 1:01:07

9M ago1:01:07

1:01:07

A conversation about the Detroit rapper’s long and unlikely career as his 12th studio album reaches No. 1. Guests: Jayson Buford and Rob Markman.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
We Ranked Every Taylor Swift Album! (Deluxe) 1:46:52

10M ago1:46:52

1:46:52

Two longtime chroniclers of Swift’s career list their favorites — and least favorites — of the singer’s 11 original studio albums so far.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Will There Ever Be Another Global Pop Icon? (Deluxe) 38:55

10M ago38:55

38:55

In a moment of success for newcomers like Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan, is there still a path to becoming a true cross-platform pop superstar?Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Charli XCX’s ‘Brat’ Breakthrough 54:48

10M ago54:48

54:48

The pop songwriter’s sixth album is in some ways her most daring release yet. Improbably, it also yielded her best opening week. Guest host: Lindsay Zoladz. Guests: Shaad D'Souza and Meaghan Garvey.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Pod…

1
What’s an Aging Rapper to Do? Eminem, Drake, J. Cole (& Will Smith!) Adapt (Deluxe) 1:14:21

11M ago1:14:21

1:14:21

New songs from Eminem, Drake and J. Cole — plus Will Smith’s post-Slap “Bad Boys” comeback — demonstrate different paths for maturing (or not).Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Julia Fox Interview! on Charli XCX, ‘It Girl’ Songs & Kanye Lessons 54:21

11M ago54:21

54:21

The actress, writer and downtown New York icon discusses her post-Kanye career, what it’s like to see her past go viral and the history of “It Girl” pop songs.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
How A.I. Has Changed Music, and What’s Coming Next 58:50

11M ago58:50

58:50

Artificial intelligence has become the dominant disrupter to music creation and distribution. And it’s only getting started. Guests: Bloomberg's Rachel Metz and Billboard's Kristin Robinson.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts an…

1
Did Dua Lipa Flop? + Miserable Music Movies (Deluxe) 1:17:51

11M ago1:17:51

1:17:51

Discussing the imperfect rollout of “Radical Optimism," plus: the recent music movies “Back to Black,” about Amy Winehouse, and “The Idea of You” with Anne Hathaway.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Billie Eilish Is Done Hiding (Deluxe) 1:04:00

11M ago1:04:00

1:04:00

A conversation about the pop singer’s new album, “Hit Me Hard and Soft.” Plus: How Tinashe’s “Nasty” went viral.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
Kendrick-Drake Beef Ends + Zendaya, Post Malone & Central Cee (Deluxe) 1:29:04

12M ago1:29:04

1:29:04

Catching up on the conclusion of rap’s heavyweight fight, Zendaya in “Challengers,” a new Central Cee freestyle and Post Malone’s country single with Morgan Wallen.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
The Legacy of Steve Albini, Rock’s Uncompromising Force 1:10:09

12M ago1:10:09

1:10:09

A conversation about one of the most admired, and divisive, figures in rock. Guest host: Ben Sisario. Guests: The Atlantic's Jeremy Gordon, and Joe Gross. Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Popcast (Deluxe): How Kendrick Lamar Out-Drake’d Drake 1:22:19

12M ago1:22:19

1:22:19

Breaking down the heavyweight rap battle after a weekend of dramatic diss tracks.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.By The New York Times

1
Popcast (Deluxe): The Best New Taylor Swift Songs. Plus: Chappell Roan & Sabrina Carpenter 1:22:20

12M ago1:22:20

1:22:20

Picking the best edited track list for “The Tortured Poets Department” one week later and charting the recent rise of a pair of pop’s middle-class stars.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Taylor Swift: The ‘Tortured’ Mailbag 1:02:11

1y ago1:02:11

1:02:11

Answering your questions about the sound and substance of the pop superstar’s double album, and the way fans and critics have responded to it. Guests: Caryn Ganz and Stereogum's Tom Breihan.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts an…

1
Popcast (Deluxe): Taylor Swift’s ‘Tortured’ Era 1:20:33

1y ago1:20:33

1:20:33

A discussion about the singer’s new album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” Swift’s “imperial era,” the use of her rumored relationships and production choices.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Vampire Weekend’s New Album Goes Underground and All Over 39:32

1y ago39:32

39:32

Digging into “Only God Was Above Us,” an LP that’s both catchy and complex. Guest host: Jon Pareles. Guests: The New Yorker's Amanda Petrusich and Pitchfork's Matthew Strauss.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Popcast (Deluxe): It’s Drake vs. Everybody … Who’s Winning? 1:19:43

1y ago1:19:43

1:19:43

Breaking down the convoluted recent beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar (and Future, Metro Boomin, the Weeknd, ASAP Rocky, Rick Ross and more).Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

1
Beyoncé, ‘Cowboy Carter’ and Filling in History’s Gaps 1:07:11

1y ago1:07:11

1:07:11

A conversation about how the pop superstar’s genre experiments explore race and power, and the implicit politics that come with them. Guests: Marcus K. Dowling and Julianne Escobedo Shepherd.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts a…

1
Popcast (Deluxe): Listening to Beyoncé & Future (and the Discourse) 1:23:00

1y ago1:23:00

1:23:00

How conversation about very specific aspects of the new albums “Cowboy Carter” and “We Don’t Trust You” can obscure talk of their musical quality.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everythingfrom politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts oron Apple Podcasts and Spotify.…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

NYTimes.com Podmaster Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide