Remix Competitions: Discovering 11 Hidden Places for Every Remix Challenge You Can Find Online
Remixing is a big deal, especially for any up-and-coming artists looking to make a name for themselves in the music world. And what better way to dive in than entering a remix contest? In this enlightening guide, we're walking you through everything you need to know about mounting an attack on these competitions, from their benefits to practical tips for improving your chances of winning.
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What is a Remix Contest?
If you're already a remix aficionado, you've probably got this nailed. But for those uninitiated, a remix contest is simply a competition in which multiple producers are given access to the essential components (or stems) of a track to create their own interpretations. Depending on the contest, there may be specific rules and deadlines that participants must comply with, along with a panel of judges that decide on the winners.
There's one crucial distinction to make here: remix contests differ from song challenges offered by sample companies. Being part of a remix contest, you're given stems from an existing track. Your job? To recreate your unique spin on that dance tune.
Why You Should Enter a Remix Contest NOW
Let's cut to the chase: entering a remix contest has more advantages than drawbacks, even if you're just starting out in the music-making world. So without further ado, here are some benefits to enticing you to join those thrilling competitions:
Learn From the Pros
As part of the contest entry, you might gain access to the vocal tracks, lyrics, separate instruments, drum tracks, and MIDI files of established artists. Grab this chance to dissect their work; dissect their thought processes, and discover the secrets they employ to create successful hits!
Learn to Finish a Track
The constant deadline is the perfect impetus to push yourself and power through to the final stages of music production. If you enter a remix contest, you'll be armed with the weapon of inevitability, ensuring your progress doesn't get bogged down in endless tinkering.
Gain Exposure
Even if you don't snag the gold, your remix has the potential to be heard by a broader audience, increasing your visibility within the music community. You might even have the possibility of having your work featured on social media or major streaming platforms!
It's Easier to Write than an Original Track
Coming up with captivating ideas from scratch can be a hurdle. But, when you're given great-sounding stems for your remix, crafting the perfect dancefloor-shaker becomes a more manageable task. Writing a stellar remix may not be simple, but getting started is certainly more accessible.
Build Your Music Theory Knowledge
Taking on a remix offers a fantastic opportunity to put your music theory skills into practice, strengthening your understanding of keys, chord progressions, and vocal melodies.
Although there are numerous additional benefits to participating in remix contests (such as winning gear or learning to think creatively), let's move on to the most eagerly awaited part of this guide: where to find those exciting contests!
Every Single Remix Contest You Can Enter
Without further ado, we present an extensive list of remix contests, organized for your convenience.
SKIO Music
SKIO Music is a renowned platform that hosts numerous remix contests simultaneously, offering awe-inspiring prizes such as mentorship and high-quality equipment. An added bonus: all entries are publicly available, so you can capitalize on the public eye even if you don't claim the first place.
Kreasound
Kreasound is all about community-led remix competitions—anyone can create and sponsor their own competition on this platform. There are currently nine contests running, though prizes may be less grandiose than those on other platforms.
Armada Music
As one of the biggest dance labels in the universe, Armada Music frequently features remix contests spearheaded by prominent artists like Tiësto, David Guetta, and Cedric Gervais. Be prepared for fierce competition, though, as these competitions tend to gather hundreds of entries!
Spinnin' Records
Spinnin' Records, another dance music titan, regularly hosts remix contests supported by music stars like Martin Garrix and Hardwell. Don't be discouraged by the fierce competition; it's just evidence of a thriving music scene!
BPM-Remix
BPM-Remix, part of the BPM-College, isn't incredibly active at the moment, but it's still worth keeping an eye on. Check out their website to stay updated on the latest competitions!
Audius
Audius offers various remix contests and challenges, featuring substantial cash prizes. If you're determined to make a name for yourself, this platform is an excellent choice.
REMIEXS
REMIEXS is a platform that collects contests from all over the internet, even Soundcloud! This makes it an exceptional resource for discovering unique, lesser-known remix competitions.
Rate My Mix
Rate My Mix hosts monthly mixing and remixing contests with an emphasis on rock and instrumental tracks. Winners are rewarded with an array of hardware equipment. But beware: the competition is fierce!
Sonic Academy
Although updates aren't as regular (only a few contests per year), Sonic Academy is still worth exploring. Previous remix contests have given away substantial cash prizes and numerous plugins to the victors.
Cymatics
Cymatics isn't precisely a remix contest platform, but they do host frequent contests based on their sample packs. You might need to purchase a sample pack to participate, but it's undoubtedly an exciting adventure for potential winners!
Social Media
Stay connected with your favorite artists and labels on social media to get the latest updates on upcoming remix contests. They're likely to be the first to announce new competitions!
Inactive Platforms
A few platforms that weren't publishing new contests when we last checked in, but you could still visit them occasionally to see if there are any new offerings:
- Remix Comps
- Metapop
- FindRemix
- LANDR Challenge
- Mixinghub
With these fabulous platforms ready for your perusal, it's time to attack those remix contests and take charge of your music career!
5 Tips for Maximizing Your Chances of Winning Remix Contests
You've taken the plunge and decided to plunge into the thrilling world of remix contests. Now, it's time to enhance your chances of success with these essential tips:
Remix Contest Tip #1: Focus On Only 1 Stem
One effective way to stand out is to be selective. For example, you can concentrate on the vocal if it's supplied, build on it, and remove all the other stems. Be discerning!
Remix Contest Tip #2: Don't Listen to the Original
This tip might be considered controversial, but I've personally found it to be extraordinarily useful. Since you have the stems, simply focus on them. Try not to revert back to the original song for inspiration; you'll end up producing the same sounds!
Remix Contest Tip #3: Treat a Remix as an Original Track
Remember that your remix should ultimately sound like a creative, original masterpiece, not a replica of the original song. Take your chance to make modifications to the structure and progression of the song to establish your own unique style.
Remix Contest Tip #4: Create a New Hook
Developing a new bridge or a memorable melody is one of the best ways to make your remix stand out. Perhaps introduce a new melody in the second drop or chop up the vocal to invent something new.
Remix Contest Tip #5: Catch the Listener's Attention
Judges may listen to dozens, even hundreds of remixes for a single competition, so grab their attention straight away. Launch quickly into a hook or keep the intro brief to draw them in.
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As you prepare to enter a remix contest, remember that these competitions offer numerous advantages for aspiring artists, such as learning from the pros, gaining exposure, and building your music theory knowledge. Joining a remix contest could be your chance to showcase your talent and propel your music career forward!
