Live Performance Backing Track Guide

At Meet the Music Backing Tracks Are Required for All Performing Artists

Welcome to Meet the Music, a live music and industry networking series produced by Red Velvet Studios LA.

To ensure a successful event with smooth production quality, all performers must follow the guidelines below and submit their materials at least 15 days before the event date.

Failure to follow this protocol may result in removal from the lineup.

What is a Backing Track?

A backing track is a custom audio file used during live performances. It may include:

  • Instrumental-only versions (no vocals)
  • Instrumental + background vocals (but no lead vocals)
  • Lead vocals can be included in the track but the level should be lowered to make room for your live vocals.

Backing tracks should NOT include your lead vocal performance. You must perform the lead vocal live on top of the track.

Whether you're performing an original or a cover, it is your responsibility to provide a properly prepared karaoke-style version of the track.

If this version doesn’t already exist, you may need to reach out to your producer, engineer, or mixer to request a performance-ready version. This should have been done well in advance of the show.

Backing tracks should be specifically mixed for live performance. These tracks often focus on the beat, instrumentation, and supporting vocals, allowing you to deliver the main vocal live.

What You Must Submit

Audio Files (MP3 or WAV Only)

Any other formats or links (e.g., .MP4, .M4A, .MOV, Spotify/YouTube links) will not be accepted.

📝 Submit 3–4 Backing Tracks

  • You should submit 3–4 backing tracks
  • Each artist will typically perform up to 3 songs
  • 🎯 It’s best to be over-prepared: having an extra track or two ready ensures flexibility if we have additional time in the show
  • ❗ Note: Submitting extra songs does not guarantee you’ll perform more than 3

How Song Length Affects Your Set Time

Your total performance time depends on the sum of the lengths of your songs, not just the number of songs.

  • If your tracks are shorter (2–3 minutes each), you’re more likely to perform 3 full songs
  • If your tracks are longer (4–6 minutes each), we may reduce your total number of songs you'll be allowed to perform in order to fit within the show's flow
  • Once we receive your backing tracks and see the exact song lengths, we’ll determine:


    ✅ How many songs you’ll perform
    ✅ How long your full performance block is

  • There is no pre-set guarantee of song count until we receive your submissions and review the duration of each track

🎯 Submitting extra songs is a great way to be prepared—but only approved songs within the time limit will be performed.

Proper File Naming Format

✅ Correct Examples:

01 Thriller (Michael Jackson).mp3
02 Billie Jean (Michael Jackson).wav
03 Smooth Criminal (Michael Jackson).mp3
04 Man in the Mirror (Michael Jackson).mp3


❌ Incorrect Examples:

track1final.wav
mysong.wav
mix_edit.mp3

Include a Setlist File

Add a .txt or .doc file with your preferred performance order, e.g.:

Michael Jackson – Preferred SetOrder:
01 Thriller
02 Billie Jean
03 Smooth Criminal
04 Man in the Mirror

Final set order, time slot, and number of songs performed are determined by the Red Velvet Studios production team.

Song Limits & Headliner Opportunities

  • Standard performers: up to 3 songs
  • Headliners: Up to 5 songs with priority placement in the lineup
  • Want to perform more than 3 songs or become a headliner?

Request a slot upgrade in advance
A performance or headliner fee may apply


Subject to availability and schedule needs


Backing Track Deadline: 15 Days Before Event

To ensure proper playback testing, stage scheduling, and event flow, all submissions must be received at least 15 days before the performance date.

🚨 Late, incomplete, or improperly formatted submissions may not be included in the show.

How to Submit

All files must be sent in one email or one message only.

Scattered messages, texts, or DMs will not be accepted.

Preferred – Google Drive

Email

  • Send one ZIP folder containing all files to:

    submissions@redvelvetstudio.com


    🚫 Do Not Submit
  • ❌ Streaming platform links (Spotify, YouTube, SoundCloud, etc.)
  • ❌ Text or DM messages with random attachments
  • ❌ Multiple separate emails
  • ❌ MP4, M4A, MOV, WMA files
  • ❌ Unorganized folders or poorly labeled tracks

Where to Send Backing Tracks

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