Brand Your AI Music for Contests: Self-Identification Techniques for Any Genre

How to Brand Your AI Music for Contests: Using Genre to Your Advantage

Are you ready to showcase your AI-generated music in an exciting new competition? The Battle of the AI Bands is here, offering an incredible platform for AI music creators to put their tracks to the test and engage with a broader audience.

Important Contest Details:

  • Submission Platform: Your song will first be uploaded to YouTube, where listeners can vote and comment.
  • Contest Stages: Top 16 songs move to a "Head 2 Head" battle through an app, progressing to the "Elite 8," "Final Four," and the grand championship.
  • Submission Requirements: Participants are asked to resubmit their song as an MP4 video to meet YouTube's standards. Even if you use a still image, make sure it's compelling.
  • Resubmission Option: You can submit a new or modified version of your song to the contest, providing flexibility in your promotional strategy.

Submission Deadline: October 2nd, 2024.

Ready to enter? Click here for more details and to learn how to join the competition!

Now that you know how to enter the contest, let’s talk about a key aspect of making your entry stand out: branding your music based on your genre.

Branding Through Genre: Why Some Genres Make Self-Identification Easier

When it comes to branding your music, not all genres offer the same flexibility. In genres like hip hop, urban, and rap, self-identification is not only easy but often expected. Artists frequently shout out their name, brand, or even their social media handles within the song itself—making it a natural part of the listening experience.

Here’s how self-identification works in these genres:

  • Ad-libs and Shout-outs: In hip hop, artists often use ad-libs (short, repeated vocal sounds) or shout-outs to insert their name or brand directly into the track.
  • Custom Sound Tags: Many urban music producers use custom sound tags—unique audio signatures—to leave a mark on their work.
  • Name Drops: Some artists mention their own name or catchphrase within their lyrics to remind listeners of who they are.

Applying These Techniques in a Cover or Alternate Version of Your Song

If you’re submitting a song to the Battle of the AI Bands but want to avoid sharing your main release, you can create a cover or remix. This modified version not only gives you a fresh entry but also allows you to add new branding elements to connect the song to your identity.

Techniques for Self-Identification in Covers or Remixes:

  • Insert Name Drops: If your genre allows, add a quick name drop at the start, end, or in the middle of the track to remind listeners who the artist is.
  • Use Signature Ad-libs: Incorporate your signature ad-libs into the cover version. These repeated vocal phrases or sounds become part of your musical identity.
  • Add a Sound Tag: If you have a signature sound or tag, integrate it into the song. This can help listeners associate the track with you, even if it’s a remix or alternate version.

What If Your Genre Doesn’t Allow for Self-Identification?

If you’re working in a genre where self-identification is uncommon—like classical, ambient, or instrumental music—branding becomes less about what’s in the song and more about how it’s presented. In this case:

  • Leverage the Contest’s Policies: Ensure that the contest platform, like Battle of the AI Bands, credits you properly in titles, descriptions, and metadata.
  • Create an Engaging Video: Since the contest requires a YouTube video, use this opportunity to visually brand your track with your artist name, logo, or related imagery.

Tips for Entering the Contest with a Branded Cover Version

Creating a cover or alternate version of your song for the contest can serve as a powerful marketing tool. Here’s how you can maximize this strategy:

  1. Align with Your Brand: Even though it’s a different version, keep the style, tone, and messaging in line with your brand.
  2. Cross-Promote: Use the contest as a way to direct listeners back to your original song. Include a link to your main track in the video description or during your promotional efforts.
  3. Inject Your Signature Elements: Take the opportunity to integrate your signature sound or brand elements into the contest version. This way, even if it’s not your primary release, listeners will still connect it with your brand.

Final Thoughts

In contests like the Battle of the AI Bands, your music is competing for attention. Self-identifying within your song, especially in genres like hip hop and urban, can help listeners recognize and remember you. For other genres, ensuring proper branding through visuals and contest policies becomes even more important.

Whether you submit your main song or create a cover version, always keep your branding in mind. It’s not just about the contest—it’s about using the opportunity to promote your identity as an artist.

Interested in learning more about the Battle of the AI Bands? Find out all the contest details here!

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