The New Orleans Public Library is accepting submissions for Crescent City Sounds, the only music streaming service exclusively made up of New Orleans-based artists. Prospective artists can apply to the platform through October 2. This year, the Library will add 60 records to the platform, each with an honorarium of $300.

Crescent City Sounds aims to help musicians build a following, gain access to the local music scene, and establish a lasting record of what New Orleans music is today. Library associate Joshua Smith spearheaded the Crescent City Sounds project and is leading the 2026 selection process.

“Every year the submission round fills me with so much joy,” Smith said. “We are entering into our 5th round of submissions, and I know I will still be surprised by how much amazing music is being produced and performed in New Orleans.”

A team of Library staff and community volunteers help Smith process and moderate submissions. This year’s community curators include event producer and founder of the COUCHES concert series Michael Wilson; New Orleans Record Press and Sinking City Records owner Scott Borne; WWOZ DJ Murf Reeves; entertainment consultant and talent booker Renata Robertson; and local artists Erick Santero, Ryan “Shagadelic” Batiste, Kayla Jasmine Buggage, and A’oleon Broomfield.

Prospective artists must primarily perform in New Orleans, and recordings should be no more than five years old. All genres are welcome.

“If you have an album or EP that was recorded in the last five years, we want to hear it,” Smith said. “Anything from jazz to experimental noise, and anything in between, we want to hear it. If you play open mics or grace the largest stages in town, we want to hear it. You make this city special, and we want to highlight your work.”

During the submission round, the Library will host information sessions to help unpack the process and answer questions from prospective artists.