Musical chairs need NYT crossword clue

The clue “Musical chairs need” is referencing the essential component required to play the game of musical chairs. In this game, players walk around a set of chairs while music plays, and when the music stops, they must quickly sit down. The clue is asking for the specific object that players compete for during each round.

The answer to the clue is **SEAT**. This four-letter word fits perfectly as it refers to the chair or spot that participants must secure when the music halts. In musical chairs, the seat is the focal point, as there is always one less seat than the number of players.