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What's new!

Updates, changes and improvements at BeatStars.

Top 5 Reasons to Join BeatStars Publishing

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If you are serious about building your music career,music publishing is key to collecting the royalties you might be owed for your musical works. If you’re ready to take it to the next level, here are our top 5 reasons why you should join BeatStars Publishing:
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1. Worldwide Royalty Collection

Whether it’s mechanical or performance royalties, you don’t want to learn down the road that you were owed royalties went uncollected. With BeatStars Publishing, we can guarantee worldwide royalty collection for your music, adding another revenue stream to your music business. Creators miss out on billions of dollars each year in uncollected royalties – don’t be one of them!

2. Stress-Free Process to Register Your Works

It’s important to get top level administrative help for critical services, like registering copyrights with global collection societies. BeatStars Publishing offers a seamless process to register your works through our portal, as well as access to a team of experts who are ready to assist you. Let us do the admin work – you do the creating!

3. Track Your Work

We’ll perform tracking analysis on your behalf to ensure all music consumption is being collected and distributed accurately.

4. New Opportunities

By joining BeatStars Publishing, you become part of our partnership with Sony Music Publishing, the world’s #1 music publisher, which can open new doors and opportunities as you grow your career. Don’t sleep on joining a roster of chart-topping music creators!

5. Keep 100% Ownership of Your Music

In line with our mission, our terms are creator-friendly. You keep 100% ownership rights to your work. Our services are built for creators who want a Publishing partner they can trust, so you can focus on the music.

Still not convinced? Join these creators who have trusted us with their hit songs:

(Produced by BeatStars Publishing member, Kriptik)

(Co-Produced by BeatStars Publishing member, LilHBeats)

(Co-Produced by BeatStars Publishing member, Eddie Priest)

Join today and start collecting your royalties! For all FAQs, learn more here.

Mechanical Royalties: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Maximizing Your Earnings in Music Publishing

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In music publishing, mechanical royalties remain a critical income stream for music creators. But how do you make sense of this area and maximize your earnings? We have your back. In this walkthrough, we'll unravel the complexities of mechanical royalties, empowering you to understand and optimize your income in music publishing. So, let's get those gears turning and dive right in!
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1. Demystifying Mechanical Royalties

Mechanical royalties are the payments you receive when your music is reproduced, either physically (e.g., on a CD) or digitally (e.g., via streaming services). In essence, these royalties compensate you for the right to mechanically reproduce and distribute your copyrighted work.

2. Who Pays Mechanical Royalties?

Record labels and digital service providers (DSPs) are responsible for paying mechanical royalties to the copyright holder – which could be you or your publisher. These payments are typically based on a per-unit or per-stream basis.

3. Who Collects Mechanical Royalties?

In the United States, the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) and the Harry Fox Agency (HFA) are responsible for administering blanket mechanical licenses and collecting royalties from digital service providers. However, BeatStars Publishing makes it a one-stop-shop to collect these royalties from all performing rights organizations and societies worldwide. With BeatStars Publishing, you don’t need to be affiliated with MLC or HFA to sign up. Learn more here. 

4. Strategies to Maximize Your Mechanical Royalties

Optimizing your mechanical royalties is crucial to ensuring you're rewarded for your work. Consider the following strategies:

  • Diversify Distribution: Make your music available on a wide range of platforms, such as digital service providers (ex: Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube), to boost your mechanical royalty earnings.
  • Register Your Works: Ensure all your copyrighted works are registered with BeatStars Publishing, as well as your Performing Rights Organization (PRO). BeatStars Publishing is a one-stop shop to have your music registered worldwide with every PRO and mechanical society. If you are not signed up with BeatStars Publishing or any other administrator/publishing service, you will need to register your musical works with your PRO and obtain an IPI number. Please check with your PRO to see what royalties they collect, as this varies per territory.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest industry news and changes in royalty rates to ensure you're receiving the correct amount for your work.

Supercharge Your Mechanical Royalties with BeatStars Publishing

Navigating the world of mechanical royalties can be challenging, but you don't have to go it alone. BeatStars Publishing is here to help you make sense of the complexities and ensure you're maximizing your earnings.

By joining the BeatStars Publishing family, you'll gain access to a team of experts who will manage your mechanical royalties and provide invaluable support. With BeatStars Publishing, you'll also benefit from worldwide royalty collection, 100% ownership of your songs, 1 year admin agreements, and more.

Don't leave your mechanical royalties to chance – partner with BeatStars Publishing to secure your income and elevate your career in music publishing.

Registering a Song: A Step-by-Step Guide to Protect Your Musical Creations

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You've poured your heart and soul into creating a musical masterpiece, and now it's time to protect your work and ensure you receive the recognition and reward you deserve. But how do you go about registering a song? Don’t worry; we have crafted a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and safeguard your music!
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Understanding Song Registration

Song registration is the process of formally documenting your musical work and its copyright, ensuring you have legal proof of ownership and can enforce your rights as the creator. Registering your song involves two main components: copyright registration and registering with a Performing Rights Organization (PRO).

‍Step 1: Register with a Performing Rights Organization (PRO)‍

To receive performance royalties, songs need to be registered with your PRO.

Here's how:

  • Choose a PRO: Research and select a PRO relevant to your region (e.g. ASCAP or BMI in the United States, PRS for Music in the United Kingdom, GEMA in Germany, or SACEM in France). You can also sign up with BeatStars’ partner PRO in Ireland, the Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO). Learn more about how to join here.
  • Become a Member: Sign up for a membership with your chosen PRO, providing the necessary personal and professional information.

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Step 2: Join BeatStars Publishing!

Once you receive your IPI number from your PRO, you are now ready to sign up for BeatStars Publishing!

If you wish to collect mechanical royalties for the reproduction of your song (e.g., through streaming, downloads, or physical sales), look no further than registering with BeatStars Publishing. In partnership with Sony Music Publishing, the world’s #1 music publisher, you’ll maintain 100% ownership of your music, keep an average of 80% of the royalties we collect on your behalf, receive direct payments from your music, and a lot more.

  • Register Your Songs: Once you’re a BeatStars Publishing member,  you only need to register your song once. We will handle delivering your musical works for you, which includes sending to your PRO. Learn more here.
  • Monitor Your Royalties: After registering a song, your PRO will collect and distribute performance royalties on your behalf, and you will keep track of your mechanical royalty earnings via Sony Score.

By taking these steps, you can establish a strong foundation for your music career and enjoy the fruits of your artistic labor. So don't delay, start the registration process today and protect your musical masterpieces for years to come!

BeatStars Free: What Does This Mean For Me?

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At BeatStars, we’re blessed to be the custodians of the most creative, exciting, and beautiful music available today. You’re part of a community that has contributed to multi-platinum hits and GRAMMY-award winning songs. You’ve raised your game, now it’s time for us to raise ours.
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Starting today, our Marketplace subscription becomes BeatStars Starter and this revamped plan will also contain no-cost Publishing and access a ground-breaking new feature, Seeds by Lemonaide - all for just $19.99 per year. That's an 80% price drop.

These changes reduce barriers for creators everywhere and offer our community even more ways to monetize their work.

What this means for you ⭐

You're now on BeatStars Free!

You’re limited to just 10 track uploads, but with the new Starter plan, you could unlock so much more. Why should you care? Here are just a couple reasons:

1. Unlimited uploads for just $19.99/year: Yes, you read that right. That works out to be about $1.67 per month. Can you name anything else that will drive more value for you that costs the same? Take your time, we’ll wait.

2. No-cost BeatStars Publishing: We’re making Publishing more accessible to the community so more creators can start to get paid for their music. We've already registered over 100,000 songs with members just like you!

3. Access to Seeds by Lemonaide: This ground-breaking new feature is a revolutionary AI tool that generates millions of ideas, ethically sourced by our community of creators – meaning the AI model is trained through a voluntary community of producers who are compensated for sharing their work. The AI simply generates ‘seeds’ to help kick start your creative process, bringing you one step closer to creating your next big hit!  

In addition to unlimited uploads, no-cost Publishing, and access to Lemonaide, here’s a few more benefits included in our $19.99/year Starter plan:

✅ Sell sound kits & custom services

✅ Premium analytics & sales stats

✅ Submission opportunities 

✅ 20 monthly private messages 

It’s an exciting time to be part of the BeatStars community, so go and create - let the world hear your music.

BeatStars Starter: What Does This Mean For Me?

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At BeatStars, we’re blessed to be the custodians of the most creative, exciting, and beautiful music available today. You’re part of a community that has contributed to multi-platinum hits and GRAMMY-award winning songs. You’ve raised your game, now it’s time for us to raise ours.
Read Changelog

Starting today, our Marketplace subscription becomes BeatStars Starter and this revamped plan will also contain no-cost Publishing and access a ground-breaking new feature, Seeds by Lemonaide - all for just $19.99 per year. That's an 80% price drop.

These changes reduce barriers for creators everywhere and offer our community even more ways to monetize their work.

What this means for you ⭐

You're now on BeatStars Starter!

Outside of the incredible price drop to this plan, here are some new benefits added to your plan:

1. No-Cost Publishing: You now gain access to BeatStars Publishing at no additional cost. We’re making Publishing more accessible to the community so more creators like you can start to get paid for their music. Join our Publishing roster with over 100,000 songs registered with our members!

Start My Publishing Journey

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2. Seeds by Lemonaide: We’re thrilled to officially announce our AI integration with a ground-breaking new feature: Seeds by Lemonaide. This revolutionary AI tool generates millions of ideas, ethically sourced by our community of creators – meaning the AI model is trained through a voluntary community of producers who are compensated for sharing their work. To be clear, we are not interested in replacing producers with AI. The AI simply generates ‘seeds’ to help kick start your creative process, bringing you one step closer to creating your next big hit!  

As a Starter plan member, you will have 50 credits each month to spend on exporting seeds. Each MIDI file you save and add to your library is worth 1 credit and any unused credits will not be rolled over to the next month, so be sure to use them before they expire.

Connect to Lemonaide

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You’re probably also wondering what happens to your billing with this pricing change - fair question.

For monthly Marketplace plan members: Our new Starter plan is not offered with a monthly payment option. Therefore, on your next monthly billing date you’ll be charged $19.99 for your next year and you won’t have to pay again for another 12 months. So there’s nothing you need to worry about!

For annual Marketplace plan members: We understand you’ve paid much more than how much your plan costs now, but don’t worry - we will prorate your billing. To make it fair for you, we’ve calculated the difference for the remaining period of your subscription and refunded it to you as BeatStars credits. This can be confusing at first, so we’ve provided a graphic below to help you visualize this.

You can view your credit balance when you click on your avatar on beatstars.com. Credits are eligible for Promote campaigns, Beat ID purchases, or subscription upgrades!

Lastly, we want to remind you of the amazing features already available to you as part of your subscription. These include:

✅ Unlimited track uploads, always

✅ Sell sound kits & custom services

✅ Premium analytics & sales stats

✅ Submission opportunities 

✅ 20 monthly private messages 

It’s an exciting time to be part of the BeatStars community, so go and create - let the world hear your music.   

BeatStars Professional: What Does This Mean For Me?

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At BeatStars, we’re blessed to be the custodians of the most creative, exciting, and beautiful music available today. You’re part of a community that has contributed to multi-platinum hits and GRAMMY-award winning songs. You’ve raised your game, now it’s time for us to raise ours.
Read Changelog

Starting today, our Pro Page subscription becomes BeatStars Professional and this revamped plan will also contain PROkits, access a ground-breaking new feature: Seeds by Lemonaide, monthly Beat ID credits, and Promote discounts and credits.

These changes reduce barriers for creators everywhere and offer our community even more ways to monetize their work.

What this means for you ⭐

You're now on BeatStars Professional! 

First, let's highlight all the exclusive new benefits that will take your experience to the next level:

1. Seeds by Lemonaide: We’re thrilled to officially announce our AI integration with a ground-breaking new feature: Seeds by Lemonaide. This revolutionary AI tool generates millions of ideas, ethically sourced by our community of creators – meaning the AI model is trained through a voluntary community of producers who are compensated for sharing their work. To be clear, we are not interested in replacing producers with AI. The AI simply generates ‘seeds’ to help kick start your creative process, bringing you one step closer to creating your next big hit! 

As a Professional plan member, you will have 250 credits each month to spend on exporting seeds. Each MIDI file you save and add to your library is worth 1 credit and any unused credits will not be rolled over to the next month, so be sure to use them before they expire.

Connect to Lemonaide

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2. PROkits: Discover the freshest sound kits from top producers right here on BeatStars – a dynamic collection that's continuously updated and it's all on the house. That’s right. Free. We're on a mission to empower your creative journey by ensuring you have access to the essential files that elevate your work. You will have 10 credits each month to redeem PROkits, with each PROkit being worth 1 credit. Again, any unused credits will not be rolled over to the following month.

If you're a sound kit creator, we've got something special for you too. Introducing the PROkits program, exclusively for you. This is an opportunity to showcase your sound kits to millions of creators on our dedicated Explore Sound Kits page. Apply now today!

Explore PROkits

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3. Promote Discount & Credits: Enjoy 5% off all your Promote campaigns. Experience the power of Promote while saving money on your marketing efforts. If you’re paying on an annual basis, you will receive an additional $50 in Promote credits on us every time your subscription renews!

Promote Your Next Big Hit

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4. Monthly Beat ID Credits: Take advantage of 3 free Beat ID credits every month. Effortlessly monitor the unique digital fingerprint of up to 3 beats, and the best part? It's totally flexible – switch it up as often as you'd like, ensuring complete control over your tracking needs. Seize this opportunity to safeguard your work with our complimentary Beat ID credits.

Discover Who’s Using Your Music

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Lastly, we want to remind you of the amazing features already available to you as part of your subscription. These include:

✅ Everything included in BeatStars Starter

✅ Customizable Pro Page website & domain name

✅ Unlimited monthly private messages

✅ Unlimited number of license agreements 

✅ 2 submissions per opportunity

It’s an exciting time to be part of the BeatStars community, so go and create - let the world hear your music.

Creating Harmony: A Music Producer's Guide to Health and Success

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Being a music producer can be a long journey to success. Sitting in front of a computer for long periods can be physically demanding, and a sedentary lifestyle has adverse health effects like poor posture, neck/back pain, and muscle tension. A lot of beat-makers enjoy the creativity of working in an atmospheric environment withdrawn from sunlight which can lead to feelings of depression, low energy levels, and vitamin deficiency. That is why music producers should incorporate stretching and outdoor activities into their daily routines. In this article, we will discuss some basic stretches and suggestions to increase your well-being as a creative entrepreneur.
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‍1. Preventing Injuries

Sitting in front of a computer for hours can lead to poor posture and severe muscle imbalances. Over time these imbalances can cause pain and injury. Stretching helps to alleviate and prevent these imbalances by lengthening tight muscles and increasing flexibility.

2. Reducing Stress

Music production can be a high-pressure and stressful job with long hours. Stretching is a great way to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. When you incorporate a healthy amount of stretching, your body releases endorphins, a natural painkiller that reduces stress and anxiety. It also allows you to relax the mind and opens pathways to the brain that trigger creativity. Stretching also can reduce cortisol levels which is the hormone activated by stress.

3. Improving Overall Well-Being

Stretching is also good for your overall well-being. Regular stretching can help to improve circulation, increase energy levels, and improve sleep quality. If stretching becomes a regular habit, it can help improve posture and reduce the risk of back pain, a common problem for many music producers.

4. Incorporating Stretching into Your Daily Routine

Move around and stretch a little bit every hour and at least 15 minutes daily. There are many different types of stretches you can start to incorporate into your workflow, including static stretches, dynamic stretches, and yoga poses. It is best to mix up the types of stretching in your routine to prevent boredom and ensure you are targeting all your muscle groups.

Stretching can become a regular habit regardless of where you are working. The following are a few types of stretches that music producers can do to help prevent injuries, reduce stress, and improve flexibility.

1. Neck Stretch: Sit with your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Tilt your head to the left and hold for 10-15 seconds, then repeat on the right side.

2. Shoulder Stretch: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and clasp your hands behind your back. Gently lift your arms up and away from your body, keeping your shoulders down and your chest open.

3. Hamstring Stretch: Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Lean forward from the hips, reaching your hands towards your toes. Hold for 10-15 seconds.

4. Quad Stretch: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and bring your left foot towards your buttocks. Grasp your ankle with your left hand and hold for 10-15 seconds, then repeat on the other side.

5. Hip Stretch: Sit on the floor with your legs crossed. Place your left hand on your right knee and twist your torso to the right, using your right hand to support yourself. Hold for 10-15 seconds, then repeat on the other side.

6. The Child's Pose: kneel on the floor with your toes touching and your knees apart. Lean forward and stretch your arms out in front of your body, resting your forehead on the floor. Hold for 10-15 seconds.

7. Butterfly Stretch: Sit on the floor with the soles of your feet touching. Grasp your ankles and gently press your knees down toward the floor. Hold for 10-15 seconds.

Remember to breathe deeply and slowly while stretching, and never push yourself beyond your limits. When implementing these changes to your habits, it is crucial to listen to your body to prevent injury and improve flexibility. Through repetition, stretching will become easier and become second nature.

5. Implementing a Macro-based Diet

A macro-based diet consumes macronutrients in specific ratios to achieve particular health or fitness goals. Macronutrients are broken into three categories: carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Sticking to a calculated diet helps build confidence at the subconscious level by giving you a roadmap toward the goals you want to achieve. 

Adhering to a plan and stacking wins consistently can lead to better habits and confidence in other business areas, such as taking risks, building connections, and believing in your ideas. Confidence can lead to more placements and better collaborations and is the backbone of every successful entrepreneur.

Apps such as MyFitnessPal help you keep track of your daily caloric intake, which can be customized to individual goals. You can use a macro calculator online or get your specific macros and additional information from @snackonfitness on Instagram by reaching out through direct messages.

6. Suggested Daily Activity: Outdoor Walk

Adding an outdoor 45-minute walk to your daily routine is an effective way to incorporate some physical and mental activity with health benefits. Walking is a low-impact exercise that strengthens cardiovascular health, muscles/joints, and helps reduce chronic disease. 

Walking outdoors also helps fuel creativity by exposing yourself to nature. You allow all of your senses to take in their surroundings, which has a calming effect on the mind and helps reduce stress and anxiety. The goal is to feel inspired by as many things in the universe as possible when creating music. Success is defined by the person you become, and your level of success will be significantly impacted through self-development. 

Physical health and dieting are where discipline starts, and both can positively impact every aspect of your life as it becomes part of your lifestyle.

Presented by snackonfitness - snackonfitness@gmail.com

Tune Out the Noise: 7 Common Music Production Mistakes to Avoid

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Music production is a complex and nuanced craft, and even the most talented producers can fall into some common pitfalls. Here at BeatStars, we've compiled a list of seven mistakes that every aspiring music producer should be aware of in order to create polished, professional tracks that will captivate listeners.
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1. Poor Room Acoustics

One of the most overlooked aspects of music production is the importance of a properly treated room. Poor acoustics can lead to inaccurate monitoring and, ultimately, poor mixing decisions. Invest in bass traps, acoustic panels, and diffusers to create a more balanced listening environment.

2. Overprocessing

It's easy to get carried away with effects and processing tools in the pursuit of the "perfect" sound. However, overprocessing can lead to a lifeless, overcooked mix. Remember that less is often more, and focus on capturing a great sound at the source.

3. Ignoring the Importance of Sound Selection

Choosing the right sounds and samples is crucial to the success of your production. Be intentional in your choices and make sure each sound serves a purpose. Aim for quality over quantity, and don't be afraid to invest in high-quality sample libraries and virtual instruments.

4. Neglecting Arrangement and Song Structure

A great mix can't save a poorly arranged track. Focus on creating a compelling song structure with engaging dynamics, memorable hooks, and smooth transitions. This will not only make your mix easier to work with but will also create a more satisfying listening experience for your audience.

5. Overcompression

While compression can help control dynamics and add polish to a mix, overcompressing can result in a lack of clarity and depth. Use compression sparingly and always with a clear purpose in mind, whether it's to control peaks, add sustain, or create a sense of space.

6. Forgetting to Reference

Comparing your mix to professional, commercially released tracks in a similar genre can help you identify areas that need improvement. Use reference tracks as a guide for balance, frequency distribution, and overall loudness, but avoid the temptation to simply copy another artist's sound.

7. Failing to Leave Space for Mastering

Mastering is the final stage of production, where your mix is optimized for different playback systems and formats. Avoid overloading your mix with excessive EQ, compression, or limiting, and leave adequate headroom for the mastering engineer to work their magic.

By being aware of these common mistakes and taking the time to address them, you'll be well on your way to producing professional, high-quality tracks that stand out in the crowded music landscape. Remember, successful music production is as much about what you don't do as what you do. Keep honing your craft and learning from your experiences, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a master producer.

Make Your Sound Pay: The Ultimate Guide to Monetizing Your Music and Boosting Exposure

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As a music producer, you have a unique gift for creating incredible sounds and beats. But in an industry that is constantly evolving, it's essential to not only produce great music but to also have a solid plan for monetizing your work and gaining exposure. Fear not, we have put together a comprehensive guide on how to turn your passion into profit and get your music heard by the masses.
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1. Distribute Your Music Digitally

The first step to making money from your music is to get it out there. Digital platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music are essential for any music producer looking to monetize their work. Sign up with a digital distribution service like Soundrop, which will get your tracks onto these platforms for a fee or a percentage of your royalties.

2. Leverage Social Media for Exposure

Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter can be powerful tools for promoting your music and building your fan base. Share snippets of your tracks, behind-the-scenes footage, and personal stories to engage with your audience. Collaborate with influencers and fellow musicians to tap into new communities and boost your exposure.

3. Sell Your Music Directly to Fans

Consider this strategy by utilizing platforms like Bandcamp or your own website. By doing this, you'll retain more of the profits and gain valuable insights into your audience.

4. License Your Music for TV, Film, and Ads

This can be a lucrative revenue stream. Websites like Songtradr, Musicbed, and Marmoset can help connect your music with potential buyers. Additionally, research music supervisors and reach out to them directly with your portfolio.

5. Offer Your Services as a Producer or Engineer

Your skills as a music producer can be valuable to other musicians. Offer your services for recording, mixing, or mastering to generate additional income and make connections within the industry.

6. Teach Music Production

Share your knowledge by offering workshops, online courses, or one-on-one lessons in music production. This not only provides an additional income stream but can also help establish your reputation as an expert in your field.

7. Build Your Brand and Merchandise

Invest in building a strong personal brand by creating a logo, visuals, and cohesive online presence. Once you have a solid brand identity, you can create merchandise like t-shirts, hats, or posters to sell to your fans.

8. Perform Live and Tour

Live performances can be a significant source of income and exposure. Build relationships with local venues, promoters, and booking agents to land gigs and map out tours. Live streaming performances on platforms like Twitch or YouTube can also generate revenue and expand your audience.

9. Seek Sponsorships and Partnerships

Approach companies or brands that align with your music and image for sponsorships or partnerships. This can provide financial support and help you tap into new audiences.

10. Stay Informed and Adapt

The music industry is ever-changing, and staying aware about new monetization and promotion methods is crucial. Attend industry events, read up on the latest trends, and network with fellow professionals to keep ahead of the curve.

By following these tips and keeping a keen eye on the industry, you'll be well on your way to monetizing your music and getting the exposure you deserve. Remember, the key to success is a combination of passion, hard work, and smart strategies. Happy producing!

The Art of Mixing and Mastering a Song Like a Pro

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Mixing and mastering are the final steps in the production process that can make or break a song. Whether you're a budding artist or a seasoned professional, we've got you covered with tips and tricks to help you elevate your sound.
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Part 1: Mixing - The Art of Balance

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1. Setting the Stage

Before diving into the mixing process, it's essential to have your tracks organized and labeled properly. Color coding and grouping similar tracks together will make the process much more manageable and efficient.

‍2. Gain Staging

Establishing the right levels for each track is crucial to prevent clipping and ensure a clean, well-balanced mix. A good rule of thumb is to aim for an average level of -18 dBFS (decibels relative to full scale) on each track.

3. EQ - Sculpting the Sound

Equalization (EQ) allows you to shape the tone of individual tracks by boosting or cutting specific frequencies. A great technique is "subtractive EQ," which involves cutting frequencies that clutter the mix rather than boosting the ones you want to hear more of. This helps create space and clarity in the overall sound.

4. Compression - Taming Dynamics

Compression is a vital tool for controlling the dynamic range of a track. It can help to tighten up the performance, glue elements together, and add sustain or punch to certain instruments. Remember, less is often more, so "over-compression" can result in a lifeless and fatiguing mix.

5. Reverb and Delay - Creating Space

These are both powerful tools for adding depth and dimension to your mix. Use them sparingly and purposefully to create a sense of space without overpowering the mix. Don't forget to EQ your effects to avoid muddiness.

6. Automation - The Human Touch

Automation allows you to make changes to volume, panning, and effects over time, adding movement and emotion to your mix. Use automation to highlight important moments in your song, like a soaring chorus or a dramatic breakdown.

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‍Part 2: Mastering - The Final Touch

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1. Preparing Your Mix

Before you start mastering, ensure your mix is polished and properly balanced. Leave some headroom (around -6 dBFS) for the mastering engineer or plugins to work their magic.

2. EQ - Sweetening the Sound

During mastering, EQ is used to make broad, subtle adjustments to the overall tonal balance. Use gentle adjustments here to enhance the overall character of the mix, ensuring it translates well across different playback systems.

3. Compression - Gluing It Together

Mastering compression helps to glue the mix together and provide a consistent listening experience. Use a low ratio and slow attack and release times to achieve a transparent and smooth result.

4. Limiting - Maximizing Loudness

A limiter is the final step in the mastering chain, used to increase the overall loudness of your track while preventing clipping. Aim for a true peak level of -1 dBTP (decibels true peak) to avoid distortion when converting to lossy formats like MP3.

5. Mastering References

Compare your master to commercial releases in the same genre. This will help you gauge if your track is competitive in terms of loudness, tonal balance, and overall vibe.

Mixing and mastering are essential ingredients in creating a song that resonates with your audience. With practice and dedication, you can achieve a professional sound that stands out in the music landscape. Now that you're armed with these tips and tricks, it's time to unleash your sonic potential and create the music you've always envisioned.

Remember, the key to a great mix and master is patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to experiment. Keep refining your craft, stay inspired, and let your creativity shine!

The Ultimate Guide to the Best DAWs for Every Music Producer

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The digital revolution has radically transformed the music production landscape, offering a wide variety of powerful tools for producers, composers, and musicians alike. At the heart of this revolution lies the Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), the essential software for creating, recording, editing, and mixing music.
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With so many options available, it can be challenging to find the perfect DAW for your style and needs. Fear not! We've compiled a comprehensive guide to the best DAWs for different types of music producers, from the bedroom beatmaker to the professional composer.

For the Beginner: GarageBand (Mac, iOS)

When you're just starting out, simplicity and accessibility are key. Apple's GarageBand is the perfect entry point for aspiring music producers. It offers a user-friendly interface, a comprehensive selection of instruments and loops, and integration with your Mac or iOS device. Plus, it's FREE! As you gain confidence and skills, you can transition to Apple's professional-grade DAW, Logic Pro, without losing a beat.

For the EDM Wizard: Ableton Live (Windows, Mac)

If electronic dance music is your passion, then Ableton Live is the DAW for you. Renowned for its unique workflow and powerful real-time performance capabilities, Ableton Live is the go-to choice for top EDM producers like Skrillex, Diplo, and Deadmau5. The software's intuitive Session View allows for seamless looping and sampling, while its vast array of built-in instruments and effects will keep your creativity flowing.

‍For the Beatmaker: FL Studio (Windows, Mac)

Formerly known as Fruity Loops, FL Studio has become a favorite among hip-hop and electronic music producers for its intuitive pattern-based workflow and extensive sound library. With its easy-to-use step sequencer, piano roll editor, and a vast selection of virtual instruments and effects, this DAW is perfect for crafting intricate beats and catchy melodies. Producers like Metro Boomin, Martin Garrix, and Avicii have all used FL Studio to create chart-topping hits.

‍For the Singer-Songwriter: Studio One (Windows, Mac)

If you’re looking to record, produce, and master their songs with a single software as a singer-songwriter, Studio One is the perfect choice. Developed by PreSonus, Studio One offers a sleek, single-window interface that streamlines the entire music production process. Key features include intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, integrated mastering tools, and compatibility with a wide range of third-party plugins.

‍For the Film Composer: Steinberg Cubase (Windows, Mac)

Cubase, developed by Steinberg, is a popular choice among film composers and professional musicians for its exceptional MIDI capabilities, advanced scoring features, and extensive plugin compatibility. Notable users include Hans Zimmer and Junkie XL, who have composed soundtracks for blockbusters like The Dark Knight and Mad Max: Fury Road. With its unparalleled orchestral capabilities and intuitive workflow, Cubase is the ultimate DAW for composing immersive film scores.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing the best DAW for your music production needs. The right software will depend on your experience, musical style, and personal preferences. We hope this guide has helped you navigate the complex world of digital audio workstations and find the perfect fit for your creative endeavors. Now, go forth and make some noise!

From Inspiration to Creation: A Guide to Music Production Motivation

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As a music producer, staying motivated and inspired can be a difficult task. With the pressure to constantly create new and innovative sounds, it's easy to fall into a creative slump. However, with the right mindset and approach, it's possible to stay motivated and inspired. In this article, we'll explore some tips and strategies for doing so to help you advance in your music production career.
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‍1. You Are a Product of Your Environment‍

One of the best ways to stay motivated and inspired is to surround yourself with inspiration. This means listening to a lot of music, going to concerts, and attending music festivals. The more you immerse yourself in the world of music, the more likely you are to find inspiration for your own work.

It's also important to surround yourself with other creative people. Joining a community of like-minded producers can be beneficial. Not only can you share ideas and collaborate on projects, but you can also provide each other with support and encouragement.

2. Set Realistic Goals

Setting goals is essential for staying on track. However, it's important they're achievable. If you set goals that are too lofty or unrealistic, you're setting yourself up for failure, which can be demotivating.

Instead, break yours down into smaller, more achievable steps. For example, if your goal is to produce a full-length album, start by having your first milestone be to produce one or two tracks. Once you've accomplished that, set a goal to produce another two tracks, and so on.

‍3. Embrace Failure

This is a natural part of the creative process. Every successful music producer has experienced failure at some point in their career. However, it's important to embrace it and learn from the experience. Instead of getting discouraged, use your failures as an opportunity to grow and improve your skills.

4. Experiment with Different Sounds and Techniques

One of the most effective ways to stay inspired is to experiment with different sounds and techniques. Trying something new can be scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Not only can it help you discover new sounds and ideas, but it can also prevent you from getting stuck in a creative rut.

Don't be afraid to try new plugins, instruments, or production techniques. The more you experiment, the more you'll learn, and the more inspired you'll become.

5. Take Breaks

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of producing music and lose track of time. However, it's important to take breaks and step away from your work from time to time. This can help prevent burnout and keep you sharp.

Taking a break doesn't mean you have to stop producing music altogether. You can still listen to music, attend concerts, and engage in other activities that inspire you. The key is to give yourself time to recharge and come back to your work with fresh eyes.

6. Find a Mentor

Finding a mentor can be incredibly helpful for staying proactive. They can provide you with guidance, feedback, and advice. A mentor can also help you navigate the ups and downs of the music industry.

When looking for a mentor, look for someone who has experience in the music industry and shares your creative vision. It's also important to find someone who you feel comfortable talking to and who is willing to invest their time and energy in helping you succeed. Without Dr. Dre as his mentor and producer, Eminem would have never gotten the start he did, releasing The Slim Shady LP which went on to win GRAMMYs for Best Rap Album and Best Rap Solo Performance. Without Eminem as his mentor, 50 Cent wouldn’t have had his big break either. The list goes on!

7. Celebrate Your Successes

Finally, it's important to celebrate your successes. Producing music is a difficult and time-consuming process, so it's important to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements. Celebrating your successes can help you stay driven, and it can also help you stay focused on your goals.

Whether it's releasing a new track or landing a gig at a music festival, take the time to celebrate your accomplishments. You deserve it!

Can Online Beat Selling Compete with AI Music?

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Yes, there is still a promising future for the online beat selling market despite the emergence of generative AI music. Here are a few reasons why:
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1. Human creativity and uniqueness

AI-generated music might be able to create a vast array of beats, but it may not be able to fully capture the uniqueness and personal touch that human producers bring to their work. People are often drawn to the story and the creative process behind a piece of music, which AI may not be able to replicate.

2. Collaboration and customization

Human producers can collaborate with artists to create tailor-made beats and tracks that fit the artist's specific style and vision. This level of collaboration and customization is not yet possible with AI-generated music, and it may take time for AI to reach that level of understanding and adaptability.

3. Niche markets

The online beat selling market caters to a wide variety of genres and styles. There will always be a demand for beats that cater to specific niches, which may be less accessible to AI-generated music. Human producers can continue to thrive in these niche markets by staying in tune with the latest trends and audience preferences.

4. AI as a tool

Producers can harness AI technology to enhance their beat-making process, by using AI-generated samples or patterns as a starting point for their own creative work. This could lead to new, innovative sounds and styles, fueling the online beat selling market's growth rather than stifling it.

5. Legal and ethical concerns

As AI-generated music becomes more prevalent, there may be legal and ethical concerns surrounding copyright, ownership, and royalties. Until these issues are resolved, human-produced beats may still be the preferred choice for many artists.

Overall, the online beat selling market has the potential to adapt and thrive, even in the face of generative AI music. By focusing on human creativity, collaboration, niche markets, and leveraging AI as a tool, the industry can continue to evolve and offer unique value to artists and listeners alike.

How to Protect Your Digital Real Estate with Content ID

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We hope that you had a chance to read our previous article entitled Digital Fingerprints: A Content ID Story, but if you haven't, here's a quick recap of the key points:

In 2007, YouTube launched a service called Content ID. According to YouTube, Content ID was created so that copyright owners could easily identify and manage their content on YouTube. First, a copyright owner's intellectual property is scanned against a database of files that have been submitted to by other Content owners. Then, Content ID allows copyright owners to decide what happens when the content on YouTube matches a work they own.

When a match is found, the video gets a Content ID claim. Over 720,000 hours of video are uploaded to the YouTube Platform every day. However, Content ID attaches a digital fingerprint to each piece of content to ensure that intellectual property owners can identify, organize, manage, and monetize their works.

Protecting Your Digital Real Estate

The invention of Content ID has made it so that your composition's digital fingerprints can earn you money while you sleep. Think of all of this as "Digital Real Estate," and you're the "Digital Landlord." It's only right that we look at a couple of stats about YouTube and Content ID so that you can decide for yourself if you should be protecting your Digital Real Estate.

  • According to a 2019 Statistica Study, YouTube is the largest video streaming platform. YouTube averaged 163 million monthly users compared to Netflix's 46 million, Hulu's 26 million, Amazon Prime's 16 million, and Vimeo's 15 million.
  • According to a 2021 Alphabet Report, YouTube generated $8.6 billion in ad revenue in Q4 2021, while YouTube brought in $28.8 billion in advertising income for the full year. Furthermore, YouTube paid creators more than $15 billion throughout 2021.

According to YouTube's 2021 Transparency Report for the first half of 2021:

  • 772 million copyright claims were made through Content ID.
  • 99% of all copyright claims were Content ID claims, meaning only 1% were DMCA or other forms of complaint.
  • 6 million removal requests were made with YouTube's Copyright Match Tool.
  • Fewer than 1% of Content ID claims were disputed.
  • 60% of the time, the disputed claims were resolved in favor of those contesting the claims.

Protecting Your Digital Real Estate With YouTube Content ID

Hopefully, you're leaning towards protecting your "Digital Real Estate" with YouTube Content ID. Protection is the equivalent of "monetization" when money is earned as ads are placed on YouTube videos. YouTube's Content ID service monetizes, identifies, and collects revenue generated by content incorporating your sound recordings or compositions. You can only submit material with exclusive rights to monetize your content properly. You may also monetize third-party material for which you have exclusive rights to use.

This means that if you are a producer and you decide to monetize your beats, you may only monetize those that are 100% original and non-exclusively licensed. You may also monetize beats that use third-party material, which you have the exclusive right to use. However, it's very important that we also talk about things that Content ID should not be used for.

  • Content that contains instrumental content that has previously been used in other tracks, such as samples or beats, even if now exclusively licensed to you
  • Content that contains any ambient sound effects (like nature sounds), production loops (such as GarageBand loops), or samples from audio libraries (like Musicbed and Audiojungle)
  • Content that contains meditation, yoga, or sleep music
  • Content that contains 10+ consecutive seconds of spoken word material
  • Content that contains public domain clips or speeches
  • Content that contains karaoke, soundalike, or tribute cover versions
  • Content that contains covers of traditional or public domain songs, including but not limited to: children’s music, classical pieces, holiday songs, religious songs/hymns
  • Content that contains part of a compilation, various artist release, DJ set, or continuous mix
  • Content that has been previously licensed to a third party on an exclusive basis
  • Content that is already monetized on YouTube by another distributor
  • Content that contains video game, TV, or film soundtracks (unless you are the publisher)
  • Content that is created solely for use in YouTube videos to exploit Content ID (e.g., music used for end cards)

How BeatStars Can Help You Monetize Through Content ID

Our ultimate goal is to facilitate and ensure that your “Digital Real Estate” is protected and has a Digital Fingerprint. BeatStars Distribution has created the technology to help you earn royalties from YouTube and over 30+ download and streaming platforms. Furthermore, BeatStars Publishing onboards your songs to Sony’s Publishing CMS on YouTube. These songs are scanned, and we (BeatStars) are allowed to claim ownership, monetize, and protect your compositions. 

If there is ever a time when you are unsure whether or not your “Digital Real Estate” is eligible for protection, please reach out to us at Support@beatstars.com.

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