Starting August 8, 2024, the Twitch DJ Program is set to revolutionize live streaming for DJs. After you get a Twitch DJ badge and access the Twitch DJ Catalog, a library of licensed tracks will be waiting for you. This allows you to focus on delivering live, interactive performances without copyright issues. Plus, you can earn through Twitch’s monetization features. Discover how to join, get your DJ badge, and make the most of this exciting new program!
What is Twitch DJ program?
The Twitch DJ Program is designed to give DJs a unique opportunity to showcase their performances on the Twitch platform while using a specially curated music catalog. This catalog, known as the Twitch DJ Catalog, includes tracks that have been cleared for use during live streams, eliminating concerns about copyright infringement.
The Twitch DJ Program officially starts on August 8, 2024. This is when the DJ Category will launch, and DJs can begin participating and using the Twitch DJ Catalog for their live streams. DJs who opt into the program gain access to this catalog, allowing them to integrate these tracks into their live sets.
Hey DJs! You can opt in to the Twitch DJ Program NOW!
Opt in so you can join the lineup for 8.08 on Twitch, a 24 hour global DJ fest featuring DJs like SOFI TUKKER, CHEAT CODES, Sam Feldt, Aluna, and you.
🔗: https://t.co/xC09CrLhUC pic.twitter.com/wNXRtDsykH
— Twitch (@Twitch) August 1, 2024
One of the key aspects of the Twitch DJ Program is its focus on live, interactive performances. DJs are encouraged to deliver dynamic, real-time shows rather than pre-recorded or automated streams. This live element is crucial, as the program explicitly prohibits the recording, rebroadcasting, or uploading of streams featuring the catalog tracks. Additionally, DJs are expected to avoid sharing their setlists in advance and to mix tracks from various artists rather than focusing on a single artist or album.
You can check the Twitch DJ Catalog
Twitch DJ Catalog is a vast and updated library. If you wonder what’s included it, you just need to:
- Visit the Twitch DJ Catalog search page
- Search your dream song, and that’s it!
The catalog features numerous musicians, making it simpler to highlight the exceptions.
Here are the artists not included in the catalog:
How will DJs earn with the new Twitch DJ program?
Monetization is another important component of the program. DJs participating in the Twitch DJ Program can earn revenue through Twitch’s monetization features, such as subscriptions and ads. However, a portion of the revenue is deducted to cover music rights costs associated with the use of the tracks in the catalog.
The program also includes specific rules regarding branded content. DJs can include product placements and on-stream call-outs but must adhere to Twitch’s policies regarding other forms of branded content.
How to get the Twitch DJ badge
To get the Twitch DJ badge, follow these steps:
- Opt-in to the Twitch DJ Program: First, you need to opt-in to the Twitch DJ Program through the Twitch website. This involves selecting the opt-in option on your Twitch account dashboard.
- Meet Twitch DJ badge requirements: Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria and adhere to the rules set out in the DJ Program Terms. This includes complying with Twitch’s general Terms of Service and any specific rules for the DJ Program. After than, click ““Join Twitch DJ Program”
- Start streaming: Once you’ve opted in and are part of the program, the Twitch DJ badge will arrive. Begin live streaming your DJ performances using the Twitch DJ Catalog tracks.
Twitch typically awards badges to participants who consistently adhere to the program’s guidelines and actively engage with the Twitch community. The specific criteria for receiving the badge can vary, so keep an eye on any updates or announcements from Twitch regarding badge distribution. If you have any questions or need further assistance, you can reach out to Twitch Support.
To secure your badge and continue benefiting from the program, make sure to follow all Twitch DJ Program rules.
Rules: How to keep your Twitch DJ badge
The Twitch DJ Program has a set of rules designed to ensure that DJs comply with copyright laws, maintain a high standard of content, and respect the platform’s guidelines.
- Music use: Only use music included in the Twitch DJ Catalog. Playing tracks not listed in the catalog requires written permission from the rights holders.
- Artist promotion: Avoid using an artist’s name, image, or trademarks in a way that implies endorsement or promotion of your channel without permission.
- Third-party content: Do not play music videos or other audiovisual content from third parties without permission.
- Live performances: Refrain from rebroadcasting or simulcasting concerts or live performances without proper authorization.
- Setlists and requests: Do not share your setlists in advance or play requests from the audience immediately.
- Album play: Avoid playing an entire album or a substantial portion of an album in one live stream.
- Artist variety: Do not restrict your live stream to tracks from a single artist. This rule applies to both main performers and guest artists on the tracks.
- Live streaming only: The DJ Program is intended for live streaming performances only. Refrain from recording or rebroadcasting your DJ sets.
- No audio-only broadcasts: Ensure that your stream includes a live, interactive audiovisual performance. Audio-only or automated broadcasts are not permitted.
- Catalog compliance: Regularly check the Twitch DJ Catalog to ensure that you are only using tracks that are currently listed. Music rights and available tracks may change, so stay updated.
- Branded content: Do not include branded content in ways that violate the program’s policies. Only product placements, physical signage, and on-stream callouts are allowed unless otherwise approved by Twitch.
- Accuracy in reporting: Avoid manipulating or interfering with Twitch’s efforts to track and report on using Catalog Tracks.
Simply follow Twitch’s Terms of Service and any applicable Monetization Agreements. Non-compliance may result in enforcement actions, including potential account strikes or other penalties.
Bad news, it’s not available everywhere
Geographically, the Twitch DJ Program is not available in all regions. Twitch determines the availability of the program and the catalog on a regional basis, and it can be subject to change. Here are the countries that can’t get a Twitch DJ badge:
- Belarus
- China
- Cuba
- Iran
- North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea)
- South Korea
- Syria
You can opt-out anytime
Accepted DJs can opt out of the program at any time. Upon opting out, access to the Twitch DJ Catalog is immediately revoked, and any use of catalog tracks must cease. Twitch also can terminate a DJ’s participation in the program if necessary, with or without cause.
Featured image credit: Eray Eliaçık/Bing
