Twitch finally announced the launch of Twitch DJ, a new program that will change the way DJs stream music on the live-streaming platform. This initiative is made possible by a first-of-its-kind partnership with major labels like Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, and Sony Music, as well as numerous independent labels and rights holders.
Twitch is the first major live-streaming service to offer DJs a legally secure platform for their live streams. That makes it easier than ever for DJs to share their passion with the world. And there’s more! Twitch is also known for its support for expanding communities on Twitch and beyond.
Twitch DJ: Next-level music streaming
Since early 2020, the Twitch DJ community on the platform has exploded! Tens of thousands of DJs have built communities of music fans and earned quite a bit of money in the process. The Twitch community loves DJ sets, as you can see from the ever-increasing number of views. The provider sees itself as the best platform to support DJs, and it’s easy to see why! After all, the streaming provider also earns money from every broadcast.
Many Twitch DJs have faced copyright-related challenges in the past, but Twitch have risen to the occasion! DJs playing recorded music from other artists is an essential part of their work, and live-streaming of these performances requires the relevant music rights to be cleared—or payment for the use of the music. With the new Twitch DJ program, DJs and their communities can continue to grow on the platform with fewer copyright-related issues! The new framework makes it easier for DJs and Twitch to compensate musicians playing music in the DJ set.
One of Twitch’s most important features is that it aims to support all creators. If a Twitch DJ uses music created by other music producers, it is only fair that any revenue generated on Twitch is also shared with those musicians. Many Twitch channels have confirmed this, and until now, there has simply been no solution.
What this new program means for DJs
Twitch announces today it will pass on a portion of any live-streaming DJ channels’ revenue to musicians through the relevant music labels. This could be a fantastic opportunity for musicians to monetize their work! Of course, these costs may vary depending on the monetization method and channel size.
Twitch will share these costs equally with the DJs for most streamers, although the streaming service will have to cover a larger share of the costs initially. The service will also cover these costs completely for DJs who are just getting started with monetizing!
It is essential that Twitch understands the importance of this problem being addressed. After all, a sustainable future for the community is dependent on a solution being found. Twitch has worked closely with music partners to develop this program over the past few years. Without it, those who stream DJ content on Twitch without the necessary rights risk DMCA notices and copyright penalties that could limit their ability to stream on Twitch. In addition, the actual music creators are not being given the recognition they deserve. And they are the ones who only make it possible for these broadcasts to be streamed in the first place!
Twitch DJ: stream music legally and securely & fair monetization
Twitch is excited to announce a new program that will help existing Twitch DJs adapt to the ever-changing music streaming landscape. The company will offer a one-year subsidy to cover the difference in revenue paid to music companies and their musicians. As the service grows, this subsidy will be gradually reduced, ensuring that Twitch DJs can continue to thrive in this new environment.
This program is all about supporting those who livestream as a Twitch DJ! It’s not meant for other uses of music. Streaming DJs need to sign up for the new agreement that then applies to all streams on their channel. For those who only occasionally stream DJ content, the solution is to create a second, standalone channel dedicated to DJ livestreaming!
The Twitch DJ Program is slated to launch this summer! Every Twitch DJ will have the opportunity to sign up quickly without any immediate impact on their earnings. Before participating, we encourage you to read all the program details carefully to know what to expect in the future and how the revenue will be split.
What do you think of this new program? You can let us know what you think in the comments, on Facebook or on Instagram. We look forward to your feedback!
More on the new program from Twitch
