On this page:
Getting started
Is Mixcloud Live a licensed platform?
Yes, Mixcloud is a licensed service.
We have agreements in place with many rights-holder partners around the world, including major record labels, independent record labels, publishers, distributors, performance rights organisations, collective management organisations, and more.
This means that, unlike with other streaming platforms, you can stream on Mixcloud Live without interruptions, takedowns, and failures as long as your stream abides by our Terms of Use.
Read more here:
How To Live Stream Music Without Copyright Takedown Issues
What kind of content can I stream on Mixcloud Live?
Mixcloud is proud to be a fair, inclusive, and diverse platform. Please make sure your content is in line with our Community Guidelines and Terms of Use.
We also recommend reviewing What type of content can I upload to Mixcloud?.
Additionally, please note that Mixcloud has been created to share live streams as they're happening. Pre-recorded shows or sets recorded at past events should be avoided, and make sure you don't included video content that you don't have the rights to, including music videos.
How long can I stream for? Will my stream be available to listen to later?
There are currently no limits for how long your stream can be.
However, please note that our system is designed to refresh your stream after 8 hours to avoid unwanted interruptions and to improve stability. If you're planning an extended stream, we recommend making sure that your streaming software is configured to automatically reconnect.
Mixcloud can also save the audio from your live stream for listeners to enjoy later. Your total time on air must be between 15 minutes and 6 hours for it to be saved to your profile.
You can read more about why we can't save the video content from live streams here.
If you want to record the video content from your live stream, or if you'd like to save a copy of a show under 15 minutes or over 6 hours long, we recommend using your streaming software to save a local copy to your device.
Technical information
How do I set up my stream for the first time?
Please check out our guide for configuration information on hardware, software, audio and video settings and how to get connected:
How do I go live with Mixcloud?
Can I stream using a mobile device?
We recommend streaming from a computer as many users find this to be more reliable, particularly using a wired internet connection.
However, you can stream from mobile devices if the app you're using allows streaming via RTMP protocol, for example, using https://streamlabs.com/mobile-app or https://restream.io/.
Can I stream on Mixcloud using ShoutCast, IceCast or BUTT?
Mixcloud Live needs RTMP to connect. As internet radio streaming services like ShoutCast, IceCast and BUTT don't provide an RTMP connection, you won't be able to use them to stream with us.
Can I embed my live stream on another site?
We don't currently offer a way to embed Mixcloud's live stream player to your website, app, or blog.
However, you can share a preview of your live stream to Facebook and Twitch by following the steps in this article.
I'm having issues with my live stream
Please check out our Troubleshooting your live stream article for more information.
Sharing your stream with your viewers
Who can watch my stream?
Mixcloud is an open platform, and anyone with a link to your profile or live stream page will be able to watch it via a computer or mobile device, even if they don't have a Mixcloud account.
For more information on watching live streams on Mixcloud, see our article here.
Does Mixcloud notify my followers I’m going live?
Yes, we'll notify users who follow you on Mixcloud if they're using the platform on either the app or desktop when you go live.
Your live stream will also be visible to users browsing Mixcloud on browser and mobile.
We also recommend sharing your link to your stream via your social channels to let your fans know you're going live.
Can I start a private stream?
Your stream can be accessed by anyone who has the URL while you're broadcasting.
However, you can limit how this is promoted by setting your stream to 'unlisted' before you start broadcasting, your live stream will not be listed as 'live' and your followers won't receive a notification.
Why do my viewers need to log in to write in the chat?
Mixcloud Live's chat feature is only available for logged-in listeners to help keep our platform safe, as this helps to prevent trolls, spam, and other inappropriate behaviour on Mixcloud.
If you've noticed behaviour in a live stream that breaches our Community Guidelines, please report the user (including as much information as possible, such as their username, the live stream URL, and screenshots) to our Support Team so we can take appropriate action.
Top tips
If it's your first time streaming, we recommend checking out our blog post for suggestions and considerations for different types of streamers:
How to live stream – a guide for beginners
Here are some of our other top tips for your live stream:
- We recommend not changing the audio and video settings in your streaming software. Changing these settings may stop you from being able to stream properly through Mixcloud Live.
- Post a welcome message in the chat. You may not be able to read through the chat continually but it's best to post a message welcoming your followers and maybe giving an introduction for those who stumble across your stream.
- Pick up the mic. If you've never spoken during a show before, now is the time. Whether it's saying hi to a follower, giving details about what you're playing or just having a chat, your viewers will appreciate it.
- Plan what you're going to do before you go live and how long you'll be live for. This will help with publicising the stream and managing the expectations of your followers.
- Add some Mixcloud assets to your stream using overlays on OBS. You can find Mixcloud-specific assets here.
- How you finish a show can be as important as how you start it and the same goes for live streaming. Remember that your followers are watching and listening to you, so take this opportunity to connect with them even after you're done playing music.
--
If you have any further questions, please fill out this form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.