Beatport has launched the Global Remix Challenge, and everyone who enters gets a free copy of Excite Audio Bloom Drum Machine Lite.
Bloom Drum Machine Lite is a compact drum plugin that blends vintage drum machine sounds with modern sequencing features.
Despite being a lite version, it typically costs around $35, so getting it for free is a nice little deal, especially if you missed the recent Plugin Boutique survey giveaway that also featured the plugin.
The remix contest is centered around Madonna’s iconic 1998 hit, “Ray of Light,” and is open to producers worldwide. Just sign up with your email, and you’ll instantly receive the remix stems plus a plugin code for Bloom Drum Machine Lite.
The plugin itself is a surprisingly powerful tool for quick drum sequencing inspiration. I like that it can be a groove generator when you’re stuck for ideas, or a great companion to a killer bassline.
You get 75 presets and 56 punchy, BPM-synced drum samples pulled from iconic analog and digital drum machines, all playable across 14 keys. There’s also key-based modulation, four built-in macro effects, and a sleek GUI that’s simple but effective.
The full version of Bloom includes more advanced features like sample import, detailed modulation control, drag-and-drop sample banks, and a deeper sequencer.
But even in Lite form, it’s a great addition to your drum plugin folder.
As for the remix contest, I think it’s always a good chance to put your skills to the test. Remixing Ray of Light is no small feat, but challenges like this are an excellent way to grow as a producer.
These little limitations, like using specific stems or musical starting points, can really sharpen both your technical and musical skills.
Submissions are open until September 25, 2025, and the grand prize is worth over $12,000, including gear from Native Instruments, UVI, Minimal Audio, Lewitt, Beyerdynamic, and more.
The top remix will also get a signed vinyl from Madonna and a chance to have their remix officially released (pending label approval). Two runner-ups will also receive high-value prize bundles.
There are dozens of other remix challenges live on Beatport right now, but this one feels special. You’re remixing a Grammy-winning track with a chance to be part of its legacy.
Bloom Drum Machine Lite runs on macOS (10.15+) and Windows 7+, in VST, VST3, AU, AAX, and standalone formats. All samples are royalty-free. Just sign up for the contest and check your inbox for the free plugin and stems.
More info: Global Remix Challenge (includes free plugin and stems)
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Last Updated on August 29, 2025 by Tomislav Zlatic.
