Mixcloud is a London-based streaming platform for DJ mixes, radio shows and podcasts, founded in 2008 by Nikhil Shah and Nico Perez. Unlike most sites, it is licensed with the major labels and publishers, so DJs can legally upload full mixes and the artists get paid. It is stream-only, which means no downloads, and it has its own rules on how many tracks per artist a show can include.
Mixcloud at a glance
- Founded: 2008, London
- Founders: Nikhil Shah and Nico Perez, who met at Cambridge University
- Licensing: direct deals with Universal, Sony, Warner, Merlin and collecting societies
- For listeners: free listening, plus Premium for unrestricted playback
- For creators: Mixcloud Pro, Mixcloud Select channel subscriptions and Mixcloud Live streaming
Why DJs use Mixcloud
Because it is licensed, it is one of the few places where DJs can share long-form mixes without them being taken down for copyright. Royalties go back to artists and songwriters, and the platform is built around shows rather than single tracks, which suits DJ sets and radio shows perfectly.
The upload rules
To stay within its licences, the platform limits how a show is put together. For uploads longer than 15 minutes:
- No more than 3 songs from the same release
- No more than 4 songs from the same artist, and no more than 3 in a row
- Shows breaking these limits may be restricted, so only Premium and Select subscribers can hear them, or hidden entirely
- Uploads need accurate artist and track details, so add a full tracklist
Pro, Select and Live
Select launched in December 2018 and lets fans subscribe to their favourite creators’ channels each month, with most of the money going to the creator and the artists played. Live, launched in 2020, lets Pro creators stream DJ sets live, legally. Pro adds detailed listener stats, scheduling and other tools for serious creators.
Latest features
Recent additions include timestamped comments (2025), direct messages and the Spotlights discovery feature (2026). The company has also said it does not train AI on users’ music. Check the company’s Mixcloud blog for the latest features.
Tips for growing your audience
- Upload regularly, ideally on the same day each week or month
- Use clear titles, tags and a full tracklist
- Share each show to your socials and website
- Read our guide on how to get more plays and followers on Mixcloud
Mixcloud vs SoundCloud for DJs
SoundCloud is built around individual tracks and lets uploaders offer downloads, but full DJ mixes there can be taken down when they contain copyrighted music. Mixcloud is built around long-form shows and pays royalties through its licences, so complete mixes are far less likely to be removed. Many DJs use both: SoundCloud for their own productions and edits, and Mixcloud for mixes and radio shows. If you use SoundCloud too, read our guide to building a SoundCloud profile for DJs.
Steve Bell on Mixcloud
Steve uploads his monthly DancersHip show and live sets to his channel, mixcloud.com/djstevebell. You can also listen on his DJ mixes page.
Frequently asked questions about Mixcloud
Is Mixcloud free?
Yes, you can listen for free. Premium removes listening restrictions, and creators can pay for Pro.
Is it legal to upload DJ mixes?
Yes. The platform is licensed with major labels and publishers, as long as you follow the upload rules.
Can you download mixes?
No. It is a streaming-only service.
Who founded Mixcloud?
Nikhil Shah and Nico Perez, in London in 2008.
Sources: Wikipedia and Mixcloud Help Centre.
Keep listening
Steve Bell plays soulful, deep and vocal house across the UK, Ibiza and beyond. See the media pack to book Steve for your event.
