Over the last week or so, Bobby and I have been reviewing the current CBC Challenge set up and have decided that we would like to host it on a more consistent basis. This means that from now on the Challenge will take place exactly every 6 weeks, rather than the 4-5 weeks it can sometimes fall over. Our main reason for doing this is to actually give you guys more time to work on your own projects and of course you'll be able to plan your own workload much better if you know when to expect the Challenge to be.

Therefore, the next Challenge will be on Saturday July the 6th at the usual time, with the theme being posted sometime on Friday June the 21st, You're not getting any extra time to do it in though...We're not going to make that part any less of a challenge for you!

We love putting these Challenges together, so we're not planning to stop any time soon. They do take a lot of organising, but for as long as you keep coming back for more, we will keep them going.

Finally, we are always looking for new Challenge theme idea's too. So if you have any suggestions/idea's you think might make a good Challenge theme then just let us know

You can now find the Coconut Blues Club on Facebook. Don’t forget to “like” us for all of the up to date Challenge and CBC news!

If you’re after a bit of feedback and the chance to hang out with some knowledgeable musicians, why not pop over to the Critics Corner Forum and take part in the weekly Showcase, run by Larry Ludwick. Share your music, enjoy the banter and get the chance to be awarded a top spot and maybe even the chance of a free song promotion in the monthly final. Comments range from in-depth critiques to suggestions on how to improve your song writing skills and production, so its a well worth while experience...And they're a pretty friendly bunch too. Next Showcase is in October.

After the party

It's always wonderful to receive reviews and stars on our music. Every month the challenge hosts between 20 – 30 tracks and commenting on these can be somewhat of a mammoth task. I want people to feel they can come and take part without being pressured into leaving comments if they don’t feel confident in doing so. If you want to leave comments that’s great, if not, well that’s just fine too! You will almost always find comments on each submission posted on my member page after the challenge party, so don’t forget to check there too!

What exactly is a Coconut Blues Club Challenge?

The Coconut Blues Club (CBC) Challenge is a themed musical event in song writing/recording. Once a month I set a theme and you write and record a piece of music related to that theme. It is not a competition. The purpose of the challenge is to help you experiment and develop as a musician and to help you discover new ways of working. I hope it will inspire you to be more creative and I also hope you’ll have a bloody great time along the way!

What song (s) can I submit?

Any song can be submitted as long as it fits the challenge brief and this includes cover songs. If submitting a cover song please be aware of copyright law. Your submission(s) must be written/recorded especially for the set challenge theme and not already posted on your Soundclick page. You can submit a maximum of 4 songs, but not songs that have previously been uploaded at any stage unless it’s a new and updated relevant version. Only songs that fit the theme will be accepted and may be vetted before hand.

Use of Loops/Song Kits

While I understand not everyone has the use of real drums or an orchestra, I would expect if loops are being used that you either modify them in some way, or you use them only as a means to enhance your original track. Using just song kits/loops conflicts with the whole ethos of the challenge. Songs that I feel don’t contain enough original work will not be accepted. This new rule does not affect backing tracks as I understand the limitations some of you are working under; just make it your own!

How do I summit a song?

Once you have uploaded your song, click on full song info and copy and paste the URL link. Send the link to me in a private message (PM), not email. Please put CBC Challenge Song link (or something similar) as the PM subject. Songs not submitted this way potentially could be missed (e.g. if I am unwell) and I am unable to guarantee that your song will be included as a result. PM me!

Is there a submission deadline? And what else do I need to know?

Always leave as late as possible before uploading as it makes the whole thing a wonderful surprise for everyone. Song submission deadline is always 7pm UK time on the date posted in the original challenge blog. Once uploaded, hide well to keep the surprise!

What is a Challenge Party? Do I need to be there to take part in the Challenge?

The challenge party is where lots of the guys and gals meet up to hear all the songs together, call it a launch party if you like. It's a really great way of meeting new people and usually a lot of fun. If it's not your thing don't worry, you don't have to be there to be able to submit a song.

What if I want to tell other people about my Challenge Song?

Spamming of songs before the challenge party is strictly prohibited and that's by any means including Facebook, Twitter other websites and email. Remember, the challenge is about taking a journey and learning and growing. Spamming beforehand will result in your song not being included in the challenge party. You will be more than welcome to let all your friends and fans know once the party has started.

How can I find out when the Challenge has been posted?

If you would like to be notified by email when the challenge has been posted just PM me your email address. Alternatively you can now find us on Facebook.

What if I have any more questions?

Just PM me!