10 Collaborative Songwriting Apps for Music Creators
Looking to make music with others remotely? Here are 10 top apps for collaborative songwriting:
- Songcraft - User-friendly online platform with real-time collaboration
- JamKazam - Low-latency live streaming for remote jamming
- SoundStorming - Mobile app for sharing and layering musical ideas
- Pibox Music - All-in-one platform for managing audio projects
- Soundtrap - Web-based DAW with Spotify integration
- Avid Cloud Collaboration - Pro Tools integration for professional workflows
- Ableton Link - Wireless sync for local network collaboration
- Session Studio - Organize credits and share releases
- BandLab - Free cloud-based DAW with social features
- Audiomovers ListenTo - High-quality audio streaming for remote mixing
These apps offer features like real-time collaboration, file sharing, integrated communication tools, and more to help musicians create together from anywhere.
Quick Comparison
| App | Key Feature | Best For | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Songcraft | Real-time lyric/chord editing | Beginners | Free trial, then paid |
| JamKazam | Live jamming | Live performances | Free limited, paid tiers |
| SoundStorming | Idea sharing | Inspiration/feedback | Free |
| Pibox Music | Organized feedback | Production teams | Paid tiers |
| Soundtrap | Spotify integration | Spotify users | Free basic, paid tiers |
| Avid Cloud Collaboration | Pro Tools integration | Pro Tools users | Paid with Pro Tools |
| Ableton Link | Local network sync | Electronic musicians | Included with Ableton |
| Session Studio | Credit organization | Remote recording | Free trial, then paid |
| BandLab | Free full DAW | Budget-conscious | Free |
| Audiomovers ListenTo | Low-latency streaming | Remote mixing | Paid |
1. Songcraft
Songcraft stands out as a user-friendly online platform for collaborative songwriting. It offers a range of tools to help musicians create, organize, and share their work.
Key features of Songcraft include:
- Real-time collaboration: Writers can work together on lyrics, chords, and tabs simultaneously.
- Idea organization: The platform helps keep files, notes, and audio clips in one place.
- Integrated communication: Users can chat via text or video while working.
- Songwriting aids: Songcraft provides a rhyming dictionary, thesaurus, and suggestions for keys, chords, and progressions.
The platform's ease of use has made it popular among both beginners and professionals. As of 2023, over 80,000 songwriters trust Songcraft for their creative process.
Here's what some users say about Songcraft:
"I adore Songcraft and use it constantly! I use it with my songwriting students and co-writers, and as a way to demonstrate the songwriting process in my YouTube videos." - April Keez, Songwriter & Educator
"Songcraft has totally streamlined my creative process. I keep all of my lyrics, riffs, and audio in one place that I can access from anywhere." - Jenn L., Songwriter
The platform offers both free and paid options:
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Free | $0 | 3 songs, integrated editor, rhyming dictionary, music theory tools |
| Pro | $5/month or $60/year | Unlimited songs, studio mode, chord progression generator, audio recorder |
To start a new song in Songcraft:
1. Click the "New Song" button 2. Enter a name for your song 3. Use the Song Editor to write lyrics, chords, and tabs
The platform also includes helpful tools like a syllable counter and a chord suggestion feature based on your input.
For teams looking to collaborate, Songcraft allows users to invite others by email or through sharing options. This makes it easy for songwriters to work together, even when they're far apart.
2. JamKazam
JamKazam stands out as a platform designed for musicians who need to collaborate remotely in real-time. It offers a solution for bands, orchestras, and music educators to practice, perform, and create together, regardless of physical distance.
Key features of JamKazam include:
- Low-latency live streaming: Enables near real-time music collaboration
- Recording capabilities: Users can record sessions as audio-only or audio and video
- Flexible participation: Supports both pre-recorded and live performances
- Community engagement: Allows joining open jams and connecting with new musicians
JamKazam's versatility extends to various use cases:
| Use Case | Description |
|---|---|
| Remote Band Practice | Eliminates travel to rehearsal spaces |
| Music Education | Supports K-12, universities, and individual instructors |
| Ticketed Concerts | Enables streaming of Eventbrite ticketed events |
| Song Co-writing | Facilitates collaborative songwriting sessions |
The platform offers both free and paid options:
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | 4 hours/month, 1 hour/session, up to 4 people/session |
| Gold | $9.99/month | Unlimited playtime and musicians per session |
To optimize the JamKazam experience:
1. Use a hardwired ethernet connection for lower latency 2. Invest in a good microphone and audio interface 3. Start with a free account to test before upgrading
JamKazam's impact extends beyond rock bands. Classical musicians are increasingly adopting the platform for remote collaborations. A user shared their experience:
"We were pleasantly surprised to find that... it was really not that hard to adapt our ears and rehearsal techniques to this medium."
For those looking to find compatible musicians, the ACMP Directory of Chamber Musicians can be a helpful resource.
JamKazam's development over six years has positioned it as a go-to platform for remote music collaboration, offering a blend of features that cater to various musical needs and styles.
3. SoundStorming
SoundStorming is a mobile app that helps musicians collaborate and share their work-in-progress tracks with a global community. It's designed for iOS devices and focuses on capturing initial musical ideas on the go.
Key features of SoundStorming include:
- On-the-go music recording with auto time-stamping
- Sharing capabilities to social media platforms
- Cloud storage for projects
- Global community for collaboration
The app replaces traditional voice recording apps, allowing users to record melodies or riffs directly within SoundStorming. This makes it easy for artists to:
1. Capture ideas quickly 2. Share tracks with other musicians 3. Collaborate on projects by layering lyrics, melodies, and ideas
SoundStorming's co-founders, Arnau Bosch and Alicia Rius, created the app to change how musicians and ideas are discovered. They aim to address the issue that about 90% of artists remain undiscovered.
"Together with SoundStorming co-founder and chief operating officer Alicia Rius, Bosch created the new mobile app, which allows musicians to record, share and brainstorm with other artists across a social platform, ushering in a new wave of collaboration and innovation." - Arnau Bosch, Co-founder and CEO of SoundStorming
The app is gaining traction in various areas:
| Use Case | Description |
|---|---|
| A&R Tool | Finding up-and-coming artists |
| Education | Students record and archive their progress |
| Collaboration | Musicians connect and record music together |
To get started with SoundStorming:
- Download the free app from the iOS App Store
- Record your musical ideas directly in the app
- Share your tracks with the SoundStorming community
- Collaborate with other artists globally
SoundStorming's motto, "Just record, share and then collaborate", emphasizes its focus on simplicity and ease of use for musicians looking to connect and create together.
4. Pibox Music
Pibox Music is an all-in-one platform for music production professionals to manage, share, and refine audio projects. It combines file storage, communication, and task management features tailored for the music industry.
Key features of Pibox Music include:
- Time-stamped comments on audio waveforms
- Cloud storage for large files and high-resolution audio
- Real-time chat and video calls
- Task and asset management tools
- Live mix reviews with high-quality audio streaming
Pibox aims to streamline the collaboration process by centralizing all project-related activities in one app. This approach has proven effective for many users:
"Before Pibox, our process was genuinely a nightmare because we would use whatever streaming platform, we put it on either Disco or SoundCloud." - Roy Lidstone, Power-Haus CEO
The platform offers solutions for various roles in music production:
| Role | Key Benefits |
|---|---|
| Producers | Centralized feedback, efficient file sharing |
| Sound Engineers | Version history, to-do lists for revisions |
| A&R | Project overview, budget management |
| Clients | Customizable access, easy review process |
Pibox's efficiency has been noted by industry professionals:
"I have a much better overview of things now. And that is causing less stress for me. I know that if I go into Pibox, I sort by my name, I'll know my entire workload for the day." - Fredrik Jansson, Senior A&R at Epidemic Sound
For teams looking to try Pibox Music:
- Sign up for a subscription (starting at $9.99/month for 5 team members and 450 GB storage)
- Upload your audio files to the cloud storage
- Invite team members and set access permissions
- Use the waveform commenting feature for specific feedback
- Manage tasks and track project progress using the built-in tools
5. Soundtrap
Soundtrap stands out as a user-friendly, web-based collaborative songwriting app that caters to music creators of all levels. Its focus on accessibility and real-time collaboration makes it a go-to choice for those looking to work together on music projects seamlessly.
Key features of Soundtrap include:
- Audio recording and editing
- Virtual instruments
- Collaboration tools
- Media library
- Video editing capabilities
One of Soundtrap's strengths lies in its group collaboration feature. Users can easily set up collaborative spaces:
- Log in to Soundtrap
- Click on "Groups" in the left menu
- Select "Create group" and name it
- Activate an invite code with a set timeframe
- Share the link with collaborators
Soundtrap's pricing structure is straightforward:
| Plan | Price (per month) |
|---|---|
| Premium | $10 |
| Supreme | $15 |
A free trial is available for those who want to test the platform before committing.
Soundtrap's interface and workflow have earned praise from users. The platform comes with pre-set effects and settings for virtual instrument tracks, making them nearly mix-ready from the start. This feature saves time and streamlines the creative process.
Another standout feature is Soundtrap's automatic mastering. Every time a project is saved, it's automatically mastered, preparing tracks for publishing without additional user input.
When compared to similar platforms like BandLab, Soundtrap is noted for its superior working environment. While BandLab offers more social features, Soundtrap focuses on the core aspects of music creation and collaboration, minimizing distractions for users.
For those looking to export their work, Soundtrap allows users to save projects in both MP3 and WAV formats, providing flexibility for different use cases.
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6. Avid Cloud Collaboration
Avid Cloud Collaboration is a powerful tool integrated directly into Pro Tools, making it a top choice for music creators who need to work together remotely. This cloud-based platform allows multiple users to share audio files and edit within the same session, as if they were all in the same studio.
Key features of Avid Cloud Collaboration include:
- Real-time collaboration on Pro Tools projects
- Integrated text chat for communication
- Cloud storage to prevent work loss
- Cross-platform support (Mac and Windows)
To start collaborating, users can follow these steps:
1. Open Pro Tools 2. Select File > Start Collaboration 3. The session will automatically save, close, and reopen as a cloud project 4. All tracks will be converted and ready to share
Project owners can invite up to two simultaneous collaborators, with the ability to add or remove team members as needed. This flexibility allows for dynamic teamwork throughout the creative process.
While Avid Cloud Collaboration offers many benefits, it's worth noting some limitations:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Seamless integration with Pro Tools | Requires all collaborators to use Pro Tools |
| Real-time collaboration | No built-in audio or video communication |
| Integrated text chat | Limited to two simultaneous collaborators |
| Cloud storage for project safety |
For those concerned about storage limits, Avid provides options:
- Only projects created and shared by the user count towards their storage limit
- Users can purchase more space if needed
- Projects can be converted back to local sessions to free up cloud storage
To enhance collaboration when working with users who may not have the same plug-ins, Avid recommends using Track Commit or Track Freeze features. This ensures compatibility across different setups.
Avid Cloud Collaboration's integration with Pro Tools makes it a strong contender in the world of collaborative songwriting apps, especially for those already familiar with the Pro Tools ecosystem.
7. Ableton Link
Ableton Link is a powerful tool that allows music creators to collaborate in real-time, both locally and across different devices. This technology synchronizes tempo and beat information between various music-making apps and hardware, enabling seamless jamming sessions.
Key features of Ableton Link include:
- Wireless sync over local networks
- Cross-platform compatibility (iOS, Android, macOS, Windows)
- Support for over 150 applications
- Ability to join or leave a session at any time
To use Ableton Link:
1. Connect all devices to the same local network 2. Enable Link in your music-making app 3. Start playing - the tempo will automatically sync
Ableton Link works with a wide range of popular music production tools:
| Application Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| DAWs | Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Bitwig Studio |
| Mobile Apps | Ableton Note, Steinberg Cubasis, iMPC |
| Synthesizers | Moog Animoog, Model D, Model 15 |
| DJ Software | Virtual DJ, Serato DJ, TRAKTOR PRO 3 |
| Other | Max, Korg Electribe, NI MASCHINE |
One of the most useful features of Ableton Link is its flexibility. Users can:
- Join or leave a session without disrupting others
- Adjust tempo, with all connected devices following suit
- Start and stop playback independently while staying in sync
For live performances, Ableton Link offers a game-changing solution. It allows musicians to connect multiple devices on stage, ensuring perfect synchronization without the need for complex MIDI setups.
The latest version of Ableton Link includes a Start/Stop Sync feature, which lets one application control both tempo and playback commands across all connected devices. This addition further streamlines the collaborative process for music creators.
8. Session Studio
Session Studio is a free app that helps music creators collaborate, organize song credits, and share releases. Available on web, desktop, and mobile platforms, it offers a range of tools to streamline the songwriting process.
Key features of Session Studio include:
- Real-time collaboration on audio ideas and lyrics
- Instant organization of song credits
- Secure storage and sharing of audio files and releases
- Up to 2 GB of free cloud storage (upgradable to 500 GB)
The app's Studio Check-In feature allows creators to capture data about their contributions by scanning a QR code, helping to prevent potential disputes over credits and splits.
Session Studio integrates with major Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), making it easy for producers to manage audio files and projects in one place. This integration enables seamless sharing and credit assignment across different platforms.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Collaboration | Real-time editing of audio and lyrics across devices |
| Storage | 2 GB free, upgradable to 500 GB |
| Sharing | Create playlists and share links directly from the app |
| Integration | Works with major DAWs for easy file management |
| Release | Upload directly to Soundcloud with credit information |
Many music professionals have found Session Studio helpful in their work:
"Session Studio makes collaborating with other artists much easier! The credits & splits section makes sure that all artists are accurately credited." - NICOLA GAEA, Artist
"The app makes it way easier to access files and manage splits. Artists that I work with are very happy about the post-session workflow fluidity." - THINCŒUR, Producer & Songwriter
For indie artists, Session Studio offers a centralized hub for managing the many aspects of song creation:
"As an indie artist, Session Studio provides an incredibly useful centralized hub for all the million little pieces that go into bringing a song to life from beginning to end." - BRION AIOTA, Artist
9. BandLab
BandLab is a free cloud-based music platform that enables musicians to create, collaborate, and share their music globally. It offers a full-featured Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) accessible via mobile or web browser, allowing users to record, mix, and finish music projects without cost.
Key features of BandLab include:
- Unlimited multi-track projects with free cloud storage
- Collaborative workspace for up to 50 users on a single project
- Extensive sound library with royalty-free loops, samples, and one-shots
- Cross-platform compatibility (mobile and browser-based)
BandLab's user-friendly interface makes it easy for both beginners and experienced musicians to create music on-the-go. The platform's social aspects also allow creators to connect with a community of over 100 million users.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Tracks | Unlimited |
| Collaborators | Up to 50 per project |
| Storage | Free cloud storage |
| Sound Library | Royalty-free, no subscription required |
| Platforms | Mobile and web browser |
For those seeking advanced features, BandLab offers a Membership plan that includes:
- 10 extra AutoPitch effects
- 6-stem Splitter
- Voice Cleaner
- Additional Mastering presets with intensity controls
- Unlimited Opportunities
- Global Distribution
- Fan Reach tools
"I've been with BandLab for around 3 years now. And I haven't found a single other app that compares. BandLab stands alone without exaggeration." - John Harrison, AppStore User
BandLab's combination of accessibility, collaboration features, and professional-grade tools makes it a strong contender in the world of online music creation platforms.
10. Audiomovers ListenTo
Audiomovers ListenTo is a powerful tool for remote music collaboration, offering high-quality audio streaming capabilities. It's designed to bridge the gap between artists, producers, and audio engineers working from different locations.
Key features of ListenTo include:
- Low-latency streaming: As low as 0.05ms, making it one of the fastest options available
- Lossless audio: Supports streaming up to 16 channels at 32-bit PCM / 192 kHz
- MIDI integration: Enables real-time MIDI streaming for dynamic collaboration (Pro plan)
- DAW compatibility: Works with popular software like Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools
ListenTo consists of two main components:
- Transmitter: Sends audio from your DAW to a shareable link
- Receiver: Allows others to listen to and record the transmitted audio
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $12.99/month or $99/year | Up to 10 listeners |
| Pro | $24.99/month or $199.99/year | MIDI streaming, additional features |
| Business | $275/year | Custom features for larger teams |
To get the most out of ListenTo:
- Adjust bitrate and latency based on your internet speed for optimal streaming quality
- Use the MIDI streaming feature (Pro plan) for real-time collaboration
- Set up a talkback system using the Receiver plugin for better communication during sessions
"ListenTo solved issues with latency and streaming that we faced with other platforms during remote collaboration, allowing us to work together seamlessly." - ListenTo user
For those looking to create a setup similar to an in-studio experience, ListenTo can be combined with video conferencing tools like Zoom or Skype for visual communication. This setup has proven effective for various projects, including single vocal recordings and larger sessions.
App Feature Comparison
To help you choose the right collaborative songwriting app for your needs, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison of the 10 apps discussed in this article. This table highlights key features, pricing, and unique selling points for each app.
| App Name | Key Features | Pricing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Songcraft | - Online DAW - Collaboration via social media - Beginner-friendly | Free 1-month trial, then monthly fees | Beginners and social media enthusiasts |
| JamKazam | - Live jamming - Pre-recording - Live broadcasting | Free for up to 5 musicians in 50-minute sessions Essential: $10/month (up to 10 musicians) Advanced: $30/month (up to 30 musicians) | Live performance collaborations |
| SoundStorming | - Idea sharing - Global collaboration - Idea layering | Free | Musicians seeking inspiration and feedback |
| Pibox Music | - Mix reviewing - File sharing - Cloud storage - Real-time chat | Basic: $4.50/month Standard: $9/month Premium: $18/month | Production teams needing organized feedback |
| Soundtrap | - Web-based DAW - Multitrack recording - 900+ loops, 210+ instruments | Free Basic version Paid versions start at $9.99/month | Spotify users and collaborative producers |
| Avid Cloud Collaboration | - Pro Tools integration - Real-time chat - Automatic cloud saves | Pro Tools First: Free (limited) Pro Tools: $29/month Pro Tools Ultimate: $79/month | Professional Pro Tools users |
| Ableton Link | - Local network collaboration - No MIDI/USB cables needed | Included in Ableton Live ($99-$749) | Electronic musicians for local jamming |
| Session Studio | - HD video and audio - Zoom-like interface for musicians | Free 30-day trial, then $15/month or $150/year | Remote recording sessions with video |
| BandLab | - Free online DAW - 200+ instruments - Social sharing | Free | Musicians on a budget seeking a full production suite |
| Audiomovers ListenTo | - Low-latency streaming (0.1-1 second) - Up to 32-bit/192 kHz audio | 7-day free trial $4/week or $100/year | High-quality remote mixing and mastering |
This comparison shows the range of options for collaborative songwriting, from free social platforms like BandLab to professional-grade tools like Avid Cloud Collaboration. Each app offers unique features to suit different needs and budgets.
For example, if you're a Pro Tools user working on professional projects, Avid Cloud Collaboration is your go-to choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for a free, all-in-one solution with a social aspect, BandLab might be more your speed.
JamKazam and Ableton Link stand out for live collaboration, while Pibox Music and Audiomovers ListenTo excel in high-quality audio sharing and feedback. Soundtrap, with its Spotify integration, offers a smooth experience for those already in the Spotify ecosystem.
When choosing an app, consider your specific needs, budget, and the platforms you and your collaborators are most comfortable using. Many of these apps offer free trials, so don't hesitate to test a few before committing to one for your next collaborative project.
Wrap-up
The world of collaborative songwriting has been transformed by digital tools, offering musicians unprecedented opportunities to create together, regardless of location. Let's recap the key takeaways from our exploration of these 10 collaborative songwriting apps:
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Diverse Options: From free platforms like BandLab to professional-grade tools like Avid Cloud Collaboration, there's an app for every budget and skill level.
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Specialized Features: Each app brings something unique to the table. For example, JamKazam excels in live jamming, while Pibox Music shines in organized feedback for production teams.
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Accessibility: Many of these tools offer free trials or basic versions, allowing you to test them before committing.
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Integration: Some apps, like Soundtrap, integrate with popular platforms like Spotify, streamlining your workflow.
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High-Quality Collaboration: Tools like Audiomovers ListenTo offer professional-grade audio quality for remote mixing and mastering.
To make the most of these tools:
- Experiment: Try different apps to find what works best for your creative process.
- Consider Your Needs: Think about what's most important for your projects - live collaboration, file sharing, or social features.
- Start Small: Begin with free versions to get a feel for the interface and features before upgrading.
Remember, the best tool is the one that enhances your creativity and helps you collaborate effectively. Don't be afraid to mix and match different apps for different stages of your songwriting process.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative features in collaborative songwriting apps. Stay curious, keep exploring, and most importantly, keep creating!
FAQs
How to record music together remotely?
Recording music together remotely has become easier with the rise of collaborative songwriting apps. Here are some practical steps to get started:
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Choose the right tool: Select from apps like JamKazam, SoundStorming, Pibox Music, Soundtrap, Avid Cloud Collaboration, or Ableton Link based on your needs.
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Set up your workspace: Ensure you have a stable internet connection and proper audio equipment.
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Learn the technology: Familiarize yourself with the chosen app before the session to avoid technical hiccups.
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Plan your session: Set clear goals and roles for each collaborator.
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Use file sharing: For asynchronous work, use cloud storage to share audio files.
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Communicate clearly: Use video calls or chat features to discuss ideas and give feedback.
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Be patient: Remote collaboration may take more time than in-person sessions.
Remember to export both wet and dry stems to give your collaborators flexibility in processing. Keep everyone informed about BPM and key changes to maintain consistency.