How are artists considered for opportunities?

You are considered for opportunities by filling out a music submission form for review by NINJCM staff.  The more information you provide the better. Let the staff get to know who you are.

What happens after I submit my music?

Once you have made a music submission, someone from the NINJCM staff will review your music, visits your website, review your live performances and look at your social media profiles. After your music has been reviewed, you will be notified if you have been put into our artist selection pool or if you have been added to the playlist.

What music works best at the writers round?

This is a writers round so its more about the song more than the produced record. Songs that are mid to up beat, have good and clever lyrics, and a strong delivery tend to win over the crowd.

Can I perform the explicit version of my songs?

Yes, you can use profanity during your performance.

Can I perform covers?

No. You must perform 4 original songs that you wrote or co-wrote.

I am a songwriter but I do not sing or play an instrument, can i still submit my music?

You can submit music you have written for consideration for the playlist however you will need to be able to perform some aspect of your music live for the writers rounds either by singing or playing.

Do I have to play an instrument myself?

No. You can have one backing musician, usually a guitarists or keyboardist (works best for Hip Hop performances). If you do play an instrument you are more than welcomed and encouraged to play yourself, just make sure you are very comfortable with playing and performing, this is not the platform to “test” your skills live.

Where can I find a musician to play for me?

The first option is to ask your musician friends to play for you. You can look on social media for a local musician to play for you. There may be a fee associated with having a backing musician so budget accordingly. Take into consideration the musician will have to learn your music so provide ample rehearsal time to ensure a good performance from you both.

How are writers round different from a show performance?

Writers rounds are acoustic performances and do not have production elements. There is no DJ, no backing track, no background vocalist, no backup dancers; it’s just you, the song and the audience. It’s the true test of an artist ability to captivate an audience with only their talent.

How do i increase my chances of winning the Versus Writers Round?

There are 2 keys to winning the cash prize:

1. Have good songs. This performance is about your writing and performing ability. So bring your 4 best songs and give your best delivery. Think about the order and what songs will best fit the round.

2. Bring your fans. The winners are voted on by the audience. The more of your fans are in the audience the better your chances of winning.

Should I rehearse for an acoustic performance?

YES. A smaller acoustic show can be more difficult than a big produced show in front of a large audience. You have to connect with the audience with your lyrics and tell them your story as an songwriter. You definitely want to practice what you want to say and the order you want to perform your songs that will increase your chances of winning the round.

How can I support NINJCM?

The are a few ways you can support.

1. Purchase merch. Sales from merch are how we support NINJCM programming for creatives.

2. Come to our events. We want to see you and get to know who you are, get plugged in to the movement.

3. Join our mailing list. This is the best way to stay informed on all the cool things happening with NINJCM.

4. Follow us on social media. This is how we engage with the creative community when we are not hosting events.

Where can I get merch?

Merch is available in person at our events or online at the merch store.