Twitch have launched their new DJ Program allowing DJs to stream popular music through a dedicated DJ Category. This initiative aims to provide DJs a secure, long-term platform to livestream and build communities. DJs can now use pre-recorded music while ensuring fair compensation to artists. Twitch will cover music costs initially and subsidise revenue differences for a year.
what is it?
DJs who join the DJ Program will be able to livestream millions of popular tracks without the risk of takedowns, unlocking new opportunities on Twitch that were previously out of reach. This groundbreaking program is supported by an exclusive partnership with major labels and independent rights holders.
While DJs will not be able to save Clips or Highlights, participation in the program is optional. However, DJs who choose not to join and continue streaming DJ sets may face DMCA takedowns and associated risks.
Who Can Join it?
In the Twitch DJ Program, anyone can become a DJ and livestream themselves playing recorded music for their viewers. The program isn’t limited to dance or electronic music; it applies to any stream where music is the primary focus and involves mixing pre-recorded tracks without rights. Whether you’re an occasional streamer or an expert in mixing, remixing, or mashups, you can join the program if DJing is the main focus of your content.
How Does the DJ Catalog Work?
1. Access the Catalog
Streamers enrolled in the program can use the Twitch DJ Music Catalog, a searchable database with millions of track titles for their DJ performances.
2. Check for Updates
The catalog is continuously updated, providing a real-time list of allowed tracks, though it does not include music files.
3. Verify Track Rights
DJs can use music outside the catalog but must ensure they have the necessary rights or authority for those tracks.
4. Reference for Coverage
Use the catalog as a reference to determine which tracks are covered under Twitch’s agreements with music companies.
TOP TIP
If you occasionally stream DJ content, create a separate account for it to ensure the DJ Program Terms apply. For those who DJ most of the time, one account is sufficient.
the subsidiary Program
what music can i play?
The program prohibits streaming pre-release tracks (music not yet released to the public by the rights holder on digital or physical media). Users should utilise the catalog search feature to determine which tracks are permitted for DJ sets. If a track is not marked as allowed or does not appear in the catalog, it cannot be performed in DJ sets.
Streaming pre-release tracks may result in enforcement actions, including stream termination and channel suspension. For further details, refer to the Music Guidelines, Reporting Process for Participating Music Rights Holders, and the DJ Program Terms.
💰twitch earnings (more detail)
To cover music rights costs in the Twitch DJ Program, a portion of channel earnings is allocated to pay music companies. This cost is a percentage of total revenue, meaning both small and large streamers pay the same percentage.
There are no upfront fees to join the program. Initially, Twitch will absorb a larger share of these costs through a subsidy program to allow DJs time to adjust. Non-monetising DJs will not incur costs until they start monetising.