What is a mashup and how to distribute them with RouteNote?
A guide for artists on sharing mashups through RouteNote for commercial use on streaming platforms.
Mashups have become a popular way for artists to blend multiple tracks into a single musical masterpiece. Whether it’s combining iconic hits or putting a fresh spin on different genres, mashups captivate listeners as artists experiment with new sounds.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about distributing mashups through RouteNote.
What is a mashup?
At its core, a mashup is a musical work created by merging two or more existing tracks together. Slightly differing from remixes, which often involve altering a single track, mashups combine multiple songs simultaneously.
For example, you may take the vocal track from one song and layer it over the instrumental of another to create a new experience. Mashups are a great way to highlight your creativity as a producer while reimagining familiar sounds.
Take a look at this example:
Can I distribute a mashup with RouteNote?
Using other artists’ songs
Mashups can be distributed as a remix through RouteNote.
Just like remixes, mashups require permission from every artist in order to be released. Using other artists’ work without their permission would be a breach of copyright. RouteNote is committed to ensuring that all content we distribute complies with these requirements. To upload a mashup featuring other artists’ tracks, it is essential to receive permission before attempting to upload it.
Here’s what you’ll need to provide when submitting your mashup for distribution:
- Your username
- The UPC of the release
- Confirmation from the original artists or copyright holders that you’re allowed to commercially release the mashup
We require official clearance via either a contract signed by all parties that can be verified, or direct confirmation from the artists directly. Artists can send their approval directly to moderation@routenote.com. Doing this when first submitting the track will streamline the process, otherwise we may query your rights to the mashup.
Keep in mind that securing permissions for mashups featuring high profile tracks from major labels can be challenging. Releases without the proper permissions will be rejected.
Using your own songs
If you would like to release a mash up of your own tracks, the process is much simpler. In this case, you can upload the mashup as a remix without needing external permissions.
Content recognition stores
Unfortunately we will not be able to distribute your mashup to services with content recognition systems running. These stores (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok) will not allow mashups, even if you have all of the relevant rights. To find out more about why content recognition may block your mashup or your other releases, click below.
Formatting your mashup for distribution
Follow the same guidelines as you would for a remix in order to ensure your mashup is properly formatted. This includes correctly attributing the original tracks and ensuring your metadata is accurate and clear. You can find detailed instructions on remix formatting here: How should I format a remix?
Helpful resources
If you’re new to the world of mashups or need additional guidance, here are some resources to get you started: