NCS Explained: What It Is and Why It Matters

Beginner’s Guide to Uploading Your Track to NCSNCS (NoCopyrightSounds) is a popular music label and platform known for releasing upbeat electronic tracks that creators can use in videos without worrying about copyright claims. If you’re a new producer looking to upload your track to NCS, this guide walks you through the whole process — from preparing your music and understanding NCS’s style to submitting your demo, optimizing for acceptance, and what happens after your release.

What NCS Looks For

NCS favors high-energy electronic music that fits well in gaming, streaming, and online video contexts. Common genres they accept include:

• EDM (progressive house, melodic house)
• Future bass
• Drum & bass
• Trap & dubstep
• Tropical house and chillstep

Key traits they like: catchy melodies, strong drops, clean production, radio-ready mixdowns, and clear stems. Tracks that pair well with visuals and have strong hook sections increase your chances.

Before You Submit: Prepare Your Track

1. Production quality

   • Ensure a polished mix and master. NCS expects tracks that sound professional and competitive with other releases.
   • Avoid clipping, excessive compression, or muddy low-end.

2. Structure and length

   • Typical NCS tracks run 2:30–4:00. Keep a clear intro, build, drop, and outro.
   • Make sure the hook/drop appears within the first 60–90 seconds.

3. Vocal and sample clearance

   • Only submit vocals you own or have written permission to use. NCS will reject tracks with uncleared samples.
   • Instrumental tracks are fine but vocals can help catch attention.

4. Stems and project files

   • Have stems (separate files for drums, bass, synths, vocals, fx) ready — NCS may request them later.
   • Keep your project organized in case you need to make revisions.

5. Metadata and artwork

   • Prepare artist name, track title, songwriter/producer credits, and contact email.
   • Create clean, high-resolution artwork that fits NCS’s aesthetic (usually bold, minimal, and colorful).

Creating a Professional Demo

• Bounce a high-quality MP3 (320 kbps) or WAV of your track for the initial demo. WAV is preferred for clarity if the submission form allows it.
• Include a short note (2–3 lines) about the track: genre, BPM, mood, and any notable collaborators.
• Optional: provide a 30–60 second one-minute preview crop focusing on the drop or the catchiest part if you think it represents the track best.

How to Submit to NCS

1. Find the Demo Submission portal

   • NCS accepts demos via their official website. Locate the “Submit Your Music / Demo” page. If you can’t find it, check NCS’s social channels for the latest submission guidelines.

2. Fill out the form

   • Attach your demo file or private streaming link (SoundCloud private link is commonly used).
   • Provide all required metadata and your brief track description.
   • Add links to your social profiles, previous releases, and a short bio to help them assess your presence and professionalism.

3. Be honest and concise

   • Don’t overhype. Let the music speak. Keep the message short and professional.

Tips to Increase Acceptance Chances

• Study releases: Spend time listening to recent NCS uploads to match production, tempo, and vibe.
• Network: Engage with NCS artists, join communities, and show your support—relationships can help.
• Remixes: Consider remixing an existing NCS track (with permission or through contest) to get noticed.
• Consistency: Keep releasing music on other platforms (SoundCloud, Spotify, YouTube) to build a portfolio.
• Quality over quantity: Submit only your best. One great track is better than several mediocre ones.

After Submission: What to Expect

• Response time varies — it may take weeks. If accepted, NCS will contact you with next steps.
• They may request stems, alternate versions, or minor revisions. Respond promptly and professionally.
• If rejected, ask for feedback (if offered), keep improving, and try again with stronger material.

If Your Track Is Accepted

• Contract and rights: Read the release agreement carefully. NCS typically offers free-to-use releases for creators while retaining certain distribution rights. Ensure you understand royalties, licensing, and ownership terms.
• Promotion: NCS will promote the release across their YouTube channel, Spotify, and social platforms. Provide them with social assets and a promotional plan if requested.
• Fan engagement: Be active on socials, share the release, make a YouTube content idea (gaming or montage) to showcase the track, and thank supporters.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Submitting rough drafts or unfinished mixes.
• Using uncleared vocal samples or copyrighted material.
• Neglecting metadata/artwork — sloppy presentation reduces credibility.
• Spamming multiple submissions in a short time.

Alternatives if NCS Doesn’t Accept Your Track

• Independent music distribution (DistroKid, CD Baby) to get on streaming platforms.
• Smaller labels that accept emerging artists — often more flexible with genres and rights.
• Directly licensing to content creators or via sync licensing platforms (Songtradr, AudioJungle).
• Building a YouTube/Spotify following with consistent self-releases.

Quick Checklist

• Finalized, high-quality WAV or 320 kbps MP3 demo
• Stems ready if requested
• Clean, high-res artwork
• Clear metadata and credits
• Private SoundCloud or streaming link for submission
• Short, professional submission message

Uploading to NCS is competitive but achievable with professional production, clear presentation, and persistence. Prepare your best work, follow their submission process carefully, and keep improving while building your presence. Good luck.