The world of podcasting is becoming wildly overcrowded, and it doesn’t matter what you’re looking for, any hunt for new shows can often leave you overwhelmed.
Thankfully, there are people out there still doing innovative things with the format, often stretching the definition of what you thought a podcast could be. And with rarely anyone to answer to, this has created a breeding ground of exciting ideas: be it discussions about music, celebrity gossip or just sharing funny life stories, there’s a new wave of Brit-based podcasts showing that all you need is one good idea and a clever way to present it.
Here are 10 UK culture and music podcasts you need in your life today.
Halfcast Podcast
Chalk & Cheese Podcast
Pass The Meerkat
The Chop Shop Podcast
Rhymes Like Dimes
The Receipts Podcast
The Receipts Podcast has become something of a household name since its launch in 2016. In just four years, hosts Audrey, Tolani and Milena have stomped their way up the podcast charts, signed an exclusive deal with Spotify, had their faces plastered on billboards all across London, and most recently appeared in Michaela Coel’s TV series, I May Destroy You. The ladies have rapidly grown into trusted cultural voices and important contributors to the representation of what it means to be a millennial woman — like our very own pocket-size hairdresser-chit-chat on the go. Covering everything from relationships to race, nothing (and I mean nothing) is off limits, even when the likes of Tinie Tempah, Julie Adenuga and Amplify Dot pass through. —Minou Itseli
Who We Be TALKS_
Despite a very recent rebrand, Spotify’s Who We Be TALKS_, inspired by the playlist of the same name, has remained a beacon for all things current and fresh in the sphere of Black British music. With presenters Henrie Kwushue and Harry Pinero taking over hosting duties from DJ Semtex for season three, the pair have added a dynamic exuberance and energy to the new format, the type that transports you to the room, breaking bread with your favourite artists. With guests such as Big Zuu, Julie Adenuga, Unknown T and Dutchavelli so far this season, Kwushue and Pinero have proven to have chemistry with all who step through Spotify’s doors, making it must-hear weekly content. As season three rolls on, expect both Kwushue and Pinero’s calibre as interviewers and personalities to grow. —Yemi Abiade