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IPP’s 2025 Annual 2025 Cheer Answers

IPPs 2025 Annual Cheer Answers FAQ

By Steve Pawlyk

Published January 20, 2025

Hey cheer fam! It’s that time of year again—our biggest FAQ on all things cheer music. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or a brand-new athlete, we’ve pulled together the most common questions that pop up about mixing, licensing, and bringing your routine to life. Dive in to find answers, pro tips, and helpful resources—all in one place. Enjoy our Annual Cheer Answers FAQ!


 

Table of Contents

  1. What is custom cheer music?
  2. How do you create a cheer mix for competitions?
  3. Is cheerleading music copyrighted?
  4. How long should cheer music be for a competition routine?
  5. What is the best BPM (beats per minute) for cheer routines?
  6. How do you incorporate voice-overs into cheer music?
  7. Why is licensing important for cheer music?
  8. Can you use any song for a cheerleading routine?
  9. How do you remove vocals from a track for cheer mixes?
  10. What are the penalties for using unlicensed music at competitions?
  11. How many 8-counts are typically in a 2:30 cheer routine?
  12. What software do professionals use to mix cheer music?
  13. How do you pick a theme or style for your cheer music?
  14. Where can I find legal cheer music online?
  15. How do you blend multiple songs into one cheer mix?
  16. Should a cheer routine use clean or explicit versions of songs?
  17. How do you time stunts to match the music beats?
  18. Why do cheer mixes often feature sound effects and voice-overs?
  19. How do you make sure your cheer music stands out at competitions?
  20. What’s the difference between regular cheer music and competition cheer mixes?
  21. Can you reuse last season’s cheer music?
  22. How do you edit cheer music to fit the exact routine length?
  23. Is it better to hire a professional for custom cheer music or do it yourself?
  24. How do you choose the right tempo for your cheer routine?
  25. How do you get crowd engagement with cheer music?
  26. What’s the process for licensing pop songs for cheerleading routines?
  27. How do you ensure cheer music meets competition guidelines?
  28. Do teams typically pay royalties for cheer music?
  29. How do voice-overs add impact to a cheer routine?
  30. What are common mistakes to avoid when mixing cheer music?

1. What is custom cheer music?

  • Definition: Tailor-made tracks professionally produced and mixed specifically for a cheerleading routine.
  • Purpose: Aligns music tempo, style, and voice-overs with stunts, transitions, and the routine’s theme.
  • Advantage: Creates a unique performance identity and helps teams stand out in competitions.

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competition cheer mixes

2. How do you create a cheer mix for competitions?

  • Plan the Routine: Outline stunts, tumbling, and dance segments.
  • Select Tracks or Samples: Pick music that matches each section’s energy level.
  • Arrange and Layer: Blend chosen tracks, add transitional effects, and sync with 8-counts.
  • Voice-Overs and SFX: Insert team slogans or hype phrases and relevant sound effects.
  • Finalize Licensing: Ensure each snippet is licensed to comply with competition rules.

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3. Is cheerleading music copyrighted?

  • Yes: Most music is protected by copyright law.
  • Licensing Needed: You must secure the rights to use songs publicly.
  • Penalties: Using unlicensed tracks can result in disqualifications or fines.

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4. How long should cheer music be for a competition routine?

  • Typical Limit: Routines range from 0:30 all the way to 2:30 minutes.  These are the common duration times for cheer mixes
    • 0:30
    • 0:45
    • 1:00
    • 1:30
    • 1:45
    • 2:00
    • 2:15
    • 2:30
  • Check Rules: Different competitions have varying length restrictions.
  • Timing Tips: Keep a few seconds buffer for final poses or transitions.

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5. What is the best BPM (beats per minute) for cheer routines?

  • Common Range: 140–150 BPM for a high-energy atmosphere. The majority of cheer music is 146 bpm.

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6. How do you incorporate voice-overs into cheer music?

  • Script First: Write short, memorable chants or slogans.  Include your area code, your previous accomplishments, and try to think of a theme for each mix.
  • High Quality Recording: Ensuring your mix has a professional sound is why using a service like IPP Music is crucial.  Recording and mixing vocals is not easy and is likely to be better in the end using a cheer music company who has access to professional rappers and singers.
  • Blend and Layer: Position voice-overs during transitions or big stunts; keep them clear.

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7. Why is licensing important for cheer music?

  • Legal Compliance: Avoids copyright infringement issues.
  • Protects Teams: Prevents disqualification, fines, and negative publicity.
  • Industry Standard: Competitions now require proof of properly licensed mixes.

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cheer competition music cheap
Licensed Cheer Music for Competition Cheer Music

8. Can you use any song for a cheerleading routine?

  • Technically Yes, If Licensed: Properly secure rights or use royalty-free options.
  • Restrictions: Competitions often ban explicit lyrics and have specific content rules.

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9. How do you remove vocals from a track for cheer mixes?

  • Audio Editing Software: Adobe Audition, Audacity, or vocal-removal plugins.
  • Results Vary: Full removal isn’t always perfect; some tracks resist clean isolation.
  • Licensing Still Applies: Even if instrumental, you need permission to use the track.

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10. What are the penalties for using unlicensed music at competitions?

  • Disqualification: Entire teams can be removed from the event.
  • Fines or Legal Action: Copyright holders may take legal steps for damages.
  • Reputation Damage: Reflects poorly on your program’s professionalism.

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cheer coaching tips

11. How many 8-counts are typically in a 2:30 cheer routine?

  • Average 8-Count Total: Between 17–20 eight-counts.
  • Tempo Variation: Faster music might squeeze in more counts; slower music may have fewer.

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12. What software do professionals use to mix cheer music?

  • Popular DAWs: Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro.
  • Specialized Tools: Some mixers use custom plugins designed for cheer music effects.

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13. How do you pick a theme or style for your cheer music?

  • Match Team Branding: Incorporate your team’s colors, mascot, or spirit.
  • Routine Focus: High-energy stunts call for bold, intense music; youth teams may favor pop.
  • Trend Savvy: Consider popular styles or seasonal elements for extra flair.

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cheer coaching questions and answers faq
  • Specialized Providers: IPP Music (custom mixes, licensing help).
  • Royalty-Free Libraries: Sites like Artlist, Epidemic Sound, or Storyblocks.

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15. How do you blend multiple songs into one cheer mix?

  • Segment Planning: Decide where each song snippet fits.
  • Key & Tempo Matching: Adjust pitch and speed for smooth transitions.
  • Transitions & Effects: Use sweeps, drum fills, or voice-overs for seamless flow.

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16. Should a cheer routine use clean or explicit versions of songs?

  • Always Use Clean: Explicit content is generally not allowed in cheer comps.
  • Avoid Penalties: Using explicit lyrics may lead to point deductions or disqualification.

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cheer competition music cheap
Licensed Cheer Music for Competition Cheer Music

17. How do you time stunts to match the music beats?

  • Practice with 8-Counts: Choreograph each major move to a count.
  • Sync Beats & Moves: Align big stunts with distinct musical cues.
  • Rehearse Often: Multiple run-throughs with final music ensure accuracy.

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18. Why do cheer mixes often feature sound effects and voice-overs?

  • Added Excitement: Effects amplify high-energy moments.
  • Branding & Hype: Voice-overs can feature team names or motivational phrases.
  • Routine Structure: Mark transitions and build anticipation for key stunts.

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19. How do you make sure your cheer music stands out at competitions?

  • Unique Sound: Use fresh, modern elements or creative mash-ups.
  • Production Quality: Crisp editing, balanced levels, and clear voice-overs.
  • Personalization: Incorporate custom chants, slogans, or team references.

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20. What’s the difference between regular cheer music and competition cheer mixes?

  • Regular Cheer Music: Simpler, often used for practice or sideline performances.
  • Competition Cheer Mixes: Precisely edited, fully licensed, and carefully arranged for advanced routines.

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21. Can you reuse last season’s cheer music?

  • Allowed If Re-Licensed: Confirm licenses are valid for the current season. Typically, Cheer Mixes are licensed for 365 days from purchase. IPP Music offers relicensing of mixes.
  • Fresh Factor: Competitions and audiences often respond better to new, updated mixes.

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22. How do you edit cheer music to fit the exact routine length?

  • Clip & Cut: Remove unnecessary portions to hit 2:30 or the required limit.
  • Tempo Adjustments: Slight speed changes can help fit time constraints.
  • Professional Help: IPP Music offers precise editing and licensing solutions.

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23. Is it better to hire a professional for custom cheer music or do it yourself?

  • DIY Pros: Cost-effective, full creative control.
  • DIY Cons: Firstly it’s time-consuming. But it will almost certainly lack professional polish. This especially includes cheer music maker web applications, which, though seem like a good way to control every aspect of your mix, are actually very restricting and do not sound like the mixes of championship teams.
  • Professional Pros: Expertise, licensing compliance, higher production quality.
  • Professional Cons: Depending on the style of mix you choose, there can be a higher upfront cost. The process of customization is still highly collaborative, putting you in the driver’s seat of your mix while not requiring you to have years of experience in audio production and engineering.

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licensed cheer music

24. How do you choose the right tempo for your cheer routine?

Most cheer routine music is at 146bpm.  Sometimes with younger division teams, the music’s tempo is decreased to make it easier for the team to perform the routine.

  • Match Routine Style: Fast for dynamic stunts, moderate for youth or less intense routines.
  • Experiment: Try short run-throughs at different BPMs to see what suits the team. Recording short practice runs to see which tempo feels the best and reviewing it later can be super helpful with this.
  • Ask the Experts: IPP Music can make tempo recommendations based on your skill level.

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25. How do you get crowd engagement with cheer music?

  • Familiar Hooks: Using songs (licensed) in your mix that have the feel of well-known tracks or exciting beats
  • Chantable Voice-Overs: Include easy call-and-response lines. This is an easy way to get the audience involved. Just remember to keep your voiceover instructions simple and take time to consider the syncopation of your lyrics (i.e., don’t stuff too many words into the voiceovers you request; if you keep it simple, the audience will remember the lyrics at the following events)
  • Strategic Editing: Insert hype points during big stunts or dance breaks.

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26. What’s the process for licensing pop songs for cheerleading routines?

  • Contact Licensing Agencies: ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, or music libraries handling pop tracks. Although these are reasonable avenues towards licensing popular songs, this is often a tedious and drawn out process vs simply getting a custom mix licensed for specifically for cheer performances.
  • Cheer Music Providers: IPP Music can handle licensing details for you.
  • Documentation: Competitions may require written proof of licenses.

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27. How do you ensure cheer music meets competition guidelines?

  • Follow Rulebooks: Check guidelines (USASF, Varsity, ICU) for time and content rules.
  • Verify Length & Content: No explicit lyrics; keep it under specified time limits.
  • Licensing Docs: Have proof ready in case event staff request it.

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cheer competition music cheap
Licensed Cheer Music for Competition Cheer Music
cheer music routine sound FX

28. Do teams typically pay royalties for cheer music?

  • Sometimes, but only if radio music (vs. a cheer specific mix) is used: Popular tracks require royalty payments to rights holders.
  • All-Inclusive Options: Some providers bundle licensing fees into their package.

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29. How do voice-overs add impact to a cheer routine?

  • Brand Recognition: Shoutouts to the team name, mascot, or favorite slogan. If selecting a custom mix for your routine, every aspect of it can be customized with team/mascot specific voiceovers throught the mix.  Premade mixes can also be customized in many ways here at IPP Music.
  • Engagement: Well-placed voice-overs grab audience attention.
  • Highlight Skills: Emphasize big stunts or tumbling passes with motivational phrases.

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30. What are common mistakes to avoid when mixing cheer music?

  • Poor Licensing: Ignoring proper rights can lead to disqualification.
  • Overcrowded Mix: Too many overlapping elements can sound chaotic.
  • Inconsistent Tempo: Abrupt changes can disrupt timing and choreography.
  • Ignoring Guidelines: Length or lyrical content violations risk penalties.

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Hopefully this FAQ clarifies some of the questions you had about cheer music, from licensing and mixing to timing and voice-overs. If you’re ready for custom cheer mixes or need professional help, be sure to visit
IPP Music for expert services and support. Here’s to a season filled with energy, precision, and you hitting zero!

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Your Ultimate Guide to Cheer Music and Competitions

Ultimate-Guide-to-Cheer-Music-and-Competitions

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 30, 2023

If you’re passionate about cheerleading, then you know that cheer music and cheer competitions are a big deal. Whether you’re a cheerleader, a coach, or simply a fan, you’ve likely had questions about the music that gets the crowd roaring and teams soaring. Today, we answer all your burning questions about cheer music, its role in cheer competitions, and more.

Cheerleaders-performing-a-high-energy-routine-with-IPP-Music

Who Makes Competitive Cheer Music?

When it comes to competitive cheer music, IPP Music stands at the forefront of the industry. Recognized as the Official cheer music provider of USA Cheer, they’ve earned their reputation through years of providing high-quality mixes tailored to the rhythm and energy of cheerleading.

What Kind of Music is Suitable for Cheerleading?

Cheer music needs to be energetic, upbeat, and engaging to inspire the cheerleaders and enthrall the audience. Mixes often include a range of genres, from pop and hip-hop to rock and electronic. The tempo plays a key role, with 146 beats per minute (bpm) being the standard for most high school, all-star, and college cheer mixes.

Where Can I Find Cheer Dance Music?

If you’re in need of high-quality dance routine music, you’ll first need to establish whether you have the budget for a Custom Dance Mix ($875+) or a Premade Dance Mix ($99+). The difference between the 2 options comes down to customization.  Custom Mixes offer a full spectrum of customization whereas Premade Dance Mix customization is slightly narrower.  For most teams, premade mixes provide all the customization they are looking for.  You can add a team name to the mix for just $10. IPP offers a wide range of dance mixes that strike the perfect balance between rhythm and energy, ensuring your cheer dance routine is a surefire hit!

How Do Cheer Teams Get Their Music?

Cheer teams typically purchase licensed music from reputable production companies like IPP Music. Licensed music ensures that all copyright laws are adhered to and allows teams to focus on what they do best: creating stunning cheer routines!

How Much Do Cheer Mixes Cost?

The cost of cheer music can vary depending on the type of mix. Custom mixes, tailored to a team’s specific requirements, range between $875 and $3300 per mix. On the other hand, premade cheer mixes, which can also be customized, range from $65 to $250 depending on duration. For example, here is the pricing for IPP’s Custom Cheer Mixes:

CUSTOM CHEER MUSIC PRICING

How Much Does Custom Cheer Music Cost?

Custom cheer music pricing can depend on the complexity and length of the mix, with prices generally falling between $875 and $3300 per mix. These mixes are specifically designed to suit the unique needs and routines of each cheer team, making them a worthy investment.

How Do You Pick a Cheer Song?

For custom mixes, you typically need to select 4-5 songs to be incorporated into the mix. IPP Music uses a third-party song provider, Songs for Cheer, where teams can choose their preferred tracks. If you opt for a premade mix, you don’t need to select any songs, although you do have the option to swap out existing songs if desired.

Cheer-team-selecting-songs-for-their-custom-cheer-mix

How Many 8 Counts in a Routine?

wdt_ID Length 115bpm 120bpm 125bpm 130bpm 135bpm 140bpm 146bpm 150bpm
1 1:00 14 14 15 16 16 17 17 18
2 1:30 21 22 23 24 25 25 26 27
3 2:00 28 29 30 32 33 34 36 37
4 2:15 32 33 34 36 37 39 40 44
5 2:30 35 37 38 40 42 43 45 46

The number of 8 counts in a routine depends on its length. For a one-minute routine, you would typically have around 17 counts, while for a one minute 30 seconds routine, you’d have around 26 counts. It’s important to note that the number of counts is independent of where songs blend in a cheer mix; not every song switch in a mix corresponds to an 8 count, though it’s typical that they do.

How Many 8 Counts in a Routine?

wdt_ID Length 115bpm 120bpm 125bpm 130bpm 135bpm 140bpm 146bpm 150bpm
1 1:00 14 14 15 16 16 17 17 18
2 1:30 21 22 23 24 25 25 26 27
3 2:00 28 29 30 32 33 34 36 37
4 2:15 32 33 34 36 37 39 40 44
5 2:30 35 37 38 40 42 43 45 46

the chart above is best viewed in landscape mode on a mobile device

landscape mode

The number of 8 counts in a routine depends on its length. For a one-minute routine, you would typically have around 17 counts, while for a one minute 30 seconds routine, you’d have around 26 counts. It’s important to note that the number of counts is independent of where songs blend in a cheer mix; not every song switch in a mix corresponds to an 8 count, though it’s typical that they do.

What Do Cheer Judges Look For in Competitions?

When it comes to cheer competitions, judges assess teams on a multitude of factors. It’s not only about the gravity-defying stunts and precision of the dance moves but also about the synergy between the performance and the music.

The music selection plays an indispensable role in crafting a winning cheerleading routine. A high-quality mix that complements the team’s energy can significantly influence the judges’ overall impression. It sets the tone and pace of the routine and can enhance the impact of the stunts and choreography. A well-crafted cheer mix can uplift the performance, making the routine more dynamic and engaging, hence persuading the judges in favor of the team.

cheer competition music cheap
Licensed Cheer Music for Competition Cheer Music
Cheer-judges-evaluating-a-team's-routine-at-a-cheerleading-competition

Conversely, a poorly selected or low-quality cheer mix can negatively impact the performance, making even the most complex stunts seem out of sync or less impressive. The judges aren’t just looking for a good performance but a complete package where the music and routine work together to create an unforgettable show.

Timing is another crucial aspect. Each cheerleading routine must adhere to a specified length, and the music should fit within this timeframe. Music that exceeds the allotted time can lead to penalties or even disqualification. Therefore, teams must ensure their music ends when their routine does to avoid any timing mishaps.

Lastly, the content of the music matters greatly. Profanity or even perceived profanity in the lyrics can lead to immediate disqualification. It’s crucial that the music used in cheerleading routines is clean and suitable for all ages, reflecting the spirit of cheerleading as a sport that promotes positivity, teamwork, and athleticism.

In conclusion, what cheer judges look for isn’t just skill and enthusiasm. They’re looking for a cohesive performance where the music amplifies the team’s energy and synchronization. A well-chosen, high-quality cheer mix that abides by the rules can be a game-changer in winning cheerleading competitions.

How Do You Win a Cheerleading Competition?

Winning a cheerleading competition involves a combination of factors. Teams must perfect their stunts, dances, and tumbling, ensure their routine is original and engaging, and most importantly, bring an unmatched level of energy and spirit to their performance. And remember, the choice of music and its synchronization with the routine can make a big difference!

Cheer music is the heartbeat of any cheerleading routine. Understanding its intricacies can elevate your team’s performance and ensure your routines are always a hit with the crowd and judges alike. Whether you’re investing in a custom mix or opting for a premade mix, remember that the best cheer music embodies the energy, rhythm, and spirit of your team. So, ready to hit the cheer mat with some awesome tunes? Let’s do this!

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Need Competition Music Blue

IPP's Premade Mixes are USA Cheer Compliant and customizable!  Add Sound FX, swap songs, & more!  Add your Team Name to the mix for only $10! 

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1 minute cheer mix
WAKE UP THE FIRE
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WAKE UP THE FIRE
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1 minute cheer mix

Best Cheer Music Producers for Competition Mixes

best cheer music studios for competition mixes

best cheer music producers for competition mixes

By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 26, 2018

Its a question coaches face every season: What are the best cheer music producers for competition mixes?

A lot has changed in the world of cheer in just a few short years. Perhaps no area of cheer has changed as much as the process of purchasing music.  The last 3 years has brought as many new rules as new producers.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing the best cheer music producers for competition mixes.

BUDGET

Determining your budget is a crucial first step.  Teams with larger budgets may want to explore the custom mix option, while those on a tighter budget (gyms with multiple teams, for instance) may find premade mixes to be a better fit.

CUSTOM or PREMADE

Custom mixes are just that; exclusive mixes made from scratch to your request and/or count sheet.

premade mixes are already built, and therefore more affordable.

PERSONALIZATION

Custom Mixes come complete with personal voiceovers and routine-timed fx.  However, premade mixes are also often customizable via voiceover/fx/edit add-ons

LICENSING

This is usually less of an option these days as most competitions require licensing. However, some producers still provide licensing, optionally, for an additional fee.  Alternatively, other sites (like IPP Music), provide licensing free with all purchases, custom or premade

The following is a list of the industry’s best cheer music producers for competition mixes

USA CHEER PREFERRED MUSIC PROVIDERS

USA Cheer provides their own list of approved vendors on their Preferred Music Providers page

VISIT USA CHEER
Cheer News:  Usa Cheer Announces U.s. Junior National Coed Team

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