How to get your music on Twitch Soundtrack

Twitch has become a popular platform for gamers, creatives, and various content creators. One of the features that Twitch offers is the Twitch Soundtrack, a library of rights-cleared music for Twitch streamers to use in their broadcasts. As an independent musician, you might be interested in getting your music into this library, which can help you gain exposure and additional revenue streams. In this article, we'll break down the process of getting your music on Twitch Soundtrack, ensuring top-quality submissions, and choosing the right music distribution service. Let's dive in!

Understanding Twitch Soundtrack

Before we go into the process of submitting your music, it's essential to have a good grasp of what Twitch Soundtrack is and the benefits of having your songs included.

If you're new to Twitch, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. Twitch is a live streaming platform where users can watch and interact with their favorite streamers in real-time. It's a hub for gamers, creatives, and anyone looking to share their talents with the world. Twitch Soundtrack is a feature specifically designed for streamers, providing them with a legal and curated music library to use during their broadcasts.

What is Twitch Soundtrack?

Twitch Soundtrack is a curated music library specifically designed for Twitch streamers, providing them with rights-cleared music to use during their live broadcasts. This means that they won't encounter any copyright issues, keeping their channels free from strikes and avoiding muted audio in VOD (Video On Demand) replays. Twitch Soundtrack is separated into various genres and playlists, helping streamers find the perfect soundtrack for their streams.

One of the unique aspects of Twitch Soundtrack is its curation process. The music library is curated by Twitch's team of music experts, ensuring that only the best and most appropriate music is available for streamers to use. This means that your music will be in good company, alongside other high-quality tracks that have been handpicked for their suitability for streaming.

Benefits of having your music on Twitch Soundtrack

There are several advantages of having your music on Twitch Soundtrack. First and foremost is wider exposure. With thousands of streamers using the platform daily, your music will be heard by an extensive global audience. This can help you reach new fans and grow your following.

Additionally, when users play your music during their streams, you receive performance royalties. This means that you can earn money from your music being used on Twitch Soundtrack, providing a potential new income stream for your craft.

Finally, having your music on Twitch Soundtrack can help attract new fans and increase your online presence, contributing to the overall growth of your music career. By being part of the Twitch community, you'll have the opportunity to connect with other creators and engage with your audience in new and exciting ways.

Overall, Twitch Soundtrack is an excellent opportunity for musicians to get their music heard by a wider audience, earn money from their craft, and grow their online presence. If you're a musician looking to take your career to the next level, submitting your music to Twitch Soundtrack is definitely worth considering.

Preparing your music for submission

Before submitting your music to Twitch Soundtrack, there are a few essential steps you need to follow to make sure your songs meet the required quality standards and presentation. Here are some additional tips to help you prepare your music for submission:

Ensuring high-quality audio

Achieving high-quality audio is crucial. Your music should be professionally mixed and mastered to make a good impression on both Twitch and the streamers who will potentially use your tracks. Pay close attention to details such as volume levels, equalization, and overall balance. Remember, your music will be the background for various streamers' content, so it should sound great on different speakers and headphones to satisfy as many users as possible.

One way to ensure high-quality audio is to use high-end equipment during the recording process. This includes microphones, preamps, and audio interfaces. Additionally, consider hiring a professional audio engineer to mix and master your tracks if you're not confident in your own abilities.

Formatting your tracks correctly

Twitch Soundtrack accepts music files in a variety of formats, such as MP3, WAV, and FLAC. Ensure your tracks are exported in a universally accepted format (preferably 320kbps MP3 or 16-bit, 44.1 kHz WAV) for optimal compatibility. Additionally, include properly formatted metadata such as the track title, artist name, album, and genre to make it easier for Twitch's team during the approval process.

Another important aspect of formatting your tracks is ensuring they are properly labeled and organized. Use clear and concise file names and organize your tracks into folders by album or genre. This will make it easier for both you and Twitch's team to manage your music library.

Creating eye-catching cover art

While your music's sound is crucial, don't forget the visuals. Your cover art will be displayed alongside your music on Twitch Soundtrack, so make sure it's eye-catching, professional, and well-designed. Use high-resolution images and avoid pixelation or blurriness. Consider hiring a graphic designer if necessary to make your cover art stand out.

When designing your cover art, consider the mood and genre of your music. Use colors, fonts, and imagery that reflect the style of your music and will appeal to your target audience. Additionally, make sure your cover art is consistent across all platforms where your music will be available.

Marketing your music

Submitting your music to Twitch Soundtrack is just the first step in getting your music heard by a wider audience. To maximize your exposure, consider promoting your music on social media, creating a website or landing page for your music, and reaching out to influencers and bloggers in your genre. Additionally, consider creating music videos or lyric videos to accompany your tracks and share them on YouTube and other video platforms.

Remember, the more effort you put into promoting your music, the more likely it is to be discovered by new fans and potentially used by streamers on Twitch Soundtrack.

Registering with a music distribution service

Once your music is prepared, the next step is to register with a music distribution service that can deliver your tracks to Twitch Soundtrack.

Choosing the right distribution service

Several music distribution services can help you deliver your music to Twitch Soundtrack, including Releese, DistroKid, TuneCore, and CD Baby. Research and compare their unique features, pricing, and delivery network to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. Keep in mind that some services cater exclusively to independent artists, while others may work with record labels and larger organizations. Choose a service that aligns with your goals and preferences.

Uploading your music to the distribution platform

After signing up with a music distribution service, you will need to upload your music to their platform. Ensure you include all necessary metadata and track information, as well as your high-quality audio files and cover art. Most distribution services also require you to provide a unique UPC (Universal Product Code) and/or ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) for each release, which helps track your music and report royalties. Releese will get your UPC and ISRC codes for free.

Setting up royalty payments

To receive royalties from your music on Twitch Soundtrack, you must set up your royalty payment information with your chosen music distribution service. This typically involves providing bank account details and tax information. Royalties will be collected and distributed to you by your distribution service, so keep an eye on your accounts and statements to ensure everything is proceeding smoothly.

Submitting your music to Twitch Soundtrack

Now that your music is ready for distribution, it's time to submit your tracks to Twitch Soundtrack and await approval.

Navigating the Twitch Music Library submission process

Submitting your music to Twitch Soundtrack may vary depending on your chosen distribution service. Some distributors offer direct submissions to Twitch, while others require you to opt-in or select Twitch Soundtrack as a separate service. Be sure to follow the submission process outlined by your distribution service to ensure proper delivery of your music to the platform.

Providing required information and metadata

During the submission process, you will need to provide additional information and metadata, such as track descriptions or lyrics (if applicable). This information helps Twitch categorize and sort your music appropriately, so ensure it's accurate and complete before submitting.

Awaiting approval and potential feedback

Once you've submitted your music, the Twitch team will review your tracks to ensure they meet the platform's quality and content standards. This process may take several weeks, so be patient. If your music is approved, it will be added to the Twitch Soundtrack library, and you can start enjoying the benefits of having your tracks available to thousands of streamers. If Twitch requests changes or additional information, work closely with your distribution service to address any feedback and resubmit your music for approval.

In conclusion, getting your music on Twitch Soundtrack can be a fantastic opportunity for independent musicians seeking exposure and additional revenue streams. By understanding Twitch Soundtrack, properly preparing your tracks for submission, and working with a reliable music distribution service, you can make the most of this exciting platform and enhance your music career.