mixtape

noun8

1. •
   A compilation of songs assembled into a single sequence, usually encompassing many different artists and assembled by fans; often curated around a theme, mood, or personal taste; traditionally without legal permission.

   • I wasn't performing with Pimp and Smoove that much no more, but I had a solo deal with Ruthless Rap and a brand new mixtape that was creating a big buzz. — 2006
2. •
   A playlist-style compilation of songs created on any medium (CD, digital file, streaming playlist), often shared among friends or online communities.
3. •
   A digital compilation of music, whether created by an artist or a fan, that evokes the aesthetic, informality, or curatorial spirit of earlier physical mixtapes.
4. •
   (historical) A selection of songs recorded onto a cassette tape, often combining tracks by multiple artists, whether legally obtained or informally copied.
5. •
   A musical project released under the designation; often characterized by looser artistic, commercial, or legal constraints than a formal studio album.
6. •
   An independently assembled or distributed project, frequently featuring original tracks, freestyles, remixes, or performances over existing beats, historically circulated via cassettes or CDs.
7. •
   A release by an established artist presented as informal, experimental, transitional, or promotional in nature, typically implying greater creative freedom, fewer industry expectations, and lower commercial stakes than an album.
8. •
   A label-curated compilation designed to showcase multiple artists (especially emerging acts), often serving promotional or scene-building purposes.

   • Welcome to the New Administration was a mixtape released by American rock band Fall Out Boy and featured tracks by fellow artists from their label.