Introduction
Rocksmith is a popular music learning platform developed by Ubisoft. One of its key features is the ability to create and share custom downloadable content (CDLC) through its community-driven platform. This allows users to create, upload, and download custom songs, making the game more diverse and engaging.
What is Rocksmith CDLC?
Rocksmith Custom Downloadable Content (CDLC) refers to user-created song content that can be downloaded and played within the Rocksmith game. This custom content is created by users, using the Rocksmith song creation tools, and can range from simple arrangements to complex, professionally-sounding tracks.
How is Rocksmith CDLC created?
To create CDLC, users need to use the Rocksmith Song Creator tool, which allows them to create and edit song files. The process involves:
Types of Rocksmith CDLC
There are several types of CDLC:
Benefits of Rocksmith CDLC
The CDLC feature offers several benefits:
Challenges and limitations
While CDLC offers many benefits, there are also challenges and limitations:
Conclusion
Rocksmith Custom Downloadable Content (CDLC) is a powerful feature that expands the game's replay value and encourages community engagement. While there are challenges and limitations, the benefits of CDLC make it a valuable aspect of the Rocksmith experience. By understanding how CDLC is created, the types of CDLC available, and the benefits and challenges, users can get the most out of this feature and enjoy a more diverse and engaging music learning experience.
There is only one safe, reputable source: CustomsForge.
Avoid "free DLC" websites on random forums. They often contain broken files, mismatched tempos, or malware. CustomsForge has a rigorous quality control system.
Custom DLC are fan-made arrangements of songs not officially available in the game. Players use third-party tools to chart any song (from obscure indie tracks to major artists like Led Zeppelin, Tool, or The Beatles) and load them into Rocksmith 2014 on PC/Mac.
There are two primary repositories where the community uploads thousands of customs.
What it is
Who uses it
Pros
Cons and risks
How CDLC works (brief)
Installation and tools (PC-focused)
Quality checklist before using a CDLC
Playing and learning tips
Ethics and legality
Community and resources
Verdict
Report: Rocksmith Custom Downloadable Content (CDLC) 1. Executive Summary
Custom Downloadable Content (CDLC) refers to community-created song files for Rocksmith 2014 Remastered Ubisoft delisted Rocksmith 2014 from stores in October 2023
due to expiring music licenses, the CDLC community remains active, allowing players to expand their libraries with thousands of unlicensed songs. 2. Core Requirements & Setup
To enable CDLC on PC/Mac, the following components are typically required: The "Cherub Rock" Bypass
: Most CDLC files are coded to mirror the ID of the official DLC song "Cherub Rock"
by The Smashing Pumpkins. Players must own this official song for the game to "recognize" and load custom tracks. DLL Patch (D3DX9_42.dll)
: A specific DirectX 9 dynamic link library file must be placed in the Rocksmith root folder (typically SteamApps\common\Rocksmith2014
). This file acts as the enabler that allows the game to read unauthorized CustomsForge Account : The primary hub for finding and downloading CDLC is CustomsForge
, which hosts a massive database searchable by artist, album, and arrangement type. 3. File Management CDLC files use the
extension. Proper organization is essential for functionality: : Files must be placed in the \Rocksmith2014\dlc Platform Compatibility : PC files typically end in , while Mac files end in Management Tools : Applications like Rocksmith Custom Song Toolkit CustomsForge Song Manager (CFSM)
allow users to repair outdated files, normalize volume, or add Dynamic Difficulty (DD) to tracks that lack it. CustomsForge 4. Legal and Technical Considerations
You're referring to Rocksmith, a popular music learning platform, and its downloadable content (DLC) packs, specifically the ones related to the iconic rock band, CDLC (Custom Downloadable Content) likely stands for.
Rocksmith allows users to learn and play their favorite songs on guitar or bass using a special cable and their instrument. The platform offers a vast library of songs, including many from well-known artists and bands.
The CDLC packs for Rocksmith typically include a selection of songs from a particular artist or band, and they can be purchased and downloaded directly to the user's Rocksmith account.
Some popular CDLC packs for Rocksmith include:
These packs usually contain 5-10 songs from the respective artist or band, and users can learn to play them using the Rocksmith software. rocksmith cdlc
Are you a Rocksmith user looking for a specific CDLC pack or song to learn, or perhaps you're interested in purchasing a new pack?
Rocksmith Custom Downloadable Content ( ) is widely considered the "lifeblood" of the Rocksmith 2014 community, exponentially expanding the game’s library with over 50,000 community-charted songs from nearly every genre. The Verdict: Essential but Variable For most players, CDLC is the primary reason to stick with Rocksmith 2014 over the subscription-based Rocksmith+
. It transforms a practice tool with a limited library into an infinite jukebox. However, because it is community-made, quality is inconsistent—some tracks are studio-perfect, while others are "best guesses" or unfinished. CustomsForge Key Strengths
To prepare a "solid text" file for Rocksmith Custom DLC (CDLC), you are essentially creating a timed lyric script. This is typically done for use in Editor on Fire (EOF) to ensure your lyrics sync perfectly with the music. 1. Formatting the Text File
For a clean import, your text file should follow a simple structure. While some tools allow for metadata, the core requirement is the lyrics themselves.
Structure: Each line in the text file usually corresponds to a "phrase" in the game.
Hyphenation: Use hyphens (-) to split words into syllables (e.g., Rock-smith). This tells the game to highlight parts of the word as they are sung.
Blank Lines: Use blank lines to indicate longer pauses between sections (like an instrumental break). 2. Creating the Lyrics (The "Solid" Method)
There are two main ways to turn your text into a timed file:
The Manual Sync: Import your raw text into Editor on Fire (EOF) using the F8 key. You then tap the Spacebar in real-time as the song plays to set the "start" of each word.
Using a Lyric Creator: Tools like the Rocksmith Lyric Creator allow you to type or paste your text and "tap" the timing before ever opening the main editor. 3. Best Practices for CDLC Lyrics
Precision Timing: Use "anchors" in EOF (press A) to lock beats in place so that moving one lyric doesn't accidentally shift everything behind it.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don't put too many words on one line. If a phrase is too long, it will be hard to read on the Rocksmith highway.
Line Breaks: Ensure your phrases end logically (e.g., at the end of a musical measure or vocal breath).
These guides walk through formatting, syncing, and importing your text files into Rocksmith CDLC: Creating Rocksmith 2014 Custom DLC All-in-One Guide (2024) 10K views · 1 year ago YouTube · GuitarHeroGage Add Lyrics to previously existing CDLC's 772 views · 7 years ago YouTube · TCBandLive
Custom Downloadable Content ( Rocksmith 2014 Remastered consists of community-created songs not officially available in the game's store. While not strictly "legal," it is widely used, and there have been no reports of users being banned for utilizing it. 1. Getting Started To use CDLC, you must own the PC or Mac version of Rocksmith 2014 Remastered The CDLC Patch : You need a special DLL file or the CDLC Enabler/Mod Installer to allow the game to load custom files. The "Cherub Rock" Requirement
: Historically, CDLC was keyed to the AppID for "Cherub Rock" by The Smashing Pumpkins. If you cannot purchase this specific DLC, you can use the Rocksmith Toolkit
to change a custom song's AppID to any official DLC you already own. File Formats : Ensure you download the correct file extension: 2. Where to Find Songs CustomsForge is the central hub for the CDLC community. Ignition Search
database on CustomsForge to search thousands of community-made tracks. Commissions
: If a song doesn't exist, you can request it or pay experienced "charters" for a commission via the CustomsForge Discord 3. Reporting and Quality Control
The community relies on user feedback to maintain the database's health.
Mark as bad? - CustomsForge - Rocksmith 2014 Remastered CDLC Introduction Rocksmith is a popular music learning platform
CDLC (Custom Downloadable Content) for Rocksmith 2014 Remastered
refers to user-created songs that are not part of the official game library. While Rocksmith 2014 was delisted from digital stores in October 2023, a dedicated community continues to support it through platforms like CustomsForge. Playing CDLC
To play custom songs on the PC version of Rocksmith 2014, users generally need to:
Own Official DLC: You must own at least one official DLC song (the community standard is "Cherub Rock" by Smashing Pumpkins) to serve as a base for the custom files.
Install a Patch: A specific .dll file (often referred to as the CDLC Enabler) must be placed in the game's root folder to allow it to recognize custom files.
Manage Files: Custom songs (in .psarc format) are placed in the /dlc/ folder within the Rocksmith installation directory. Creating CDLC
Creating your own custom tracks is a multi-step process involving several specialized tools: My 2600 article - Rocksmith Remastered - CustomsForge
The Ecosystem of Rocksmith Custom Downloadable Content (CDLC)
Rocksmith Custom Downloadable Content (CDLC) refers to user-generated song files that allow players to expand the Rocksmith 2014 Remastered library far beyond its official catalog. While Ubisoft discontinued official support and delisted the game from storefronts in October 2023 due to expiring music licenses, the CDLC community remains active, maintaining a library of over 80,000 songs. Core Mechanisms and Technical Requirements
CDLC works by leveraging the game's existing DLC framework. Because Rocksmith requires a valid license to play any song file, custom songs are "packaged" with the application ID (AppID) of an official song the user already owns. What's the difference between DLCs and CDLC . : r/rocksmith
Unlocking New Horizons: The Ultimate Guide to Rocksmith CDLC
Rocksmith 2014 Edition Remastered revolutionized guitar learning, but the official library has limits. To expand your repertoire beyond the thousands of official tracks, the community created CDLC (Custom Downloadable Content). This user-generated content allows you to play almost any song imaginable, from underground metal to modern pop hits. What is Rocksmith CDLC?
CDLC refers to custom songs charted by community members rather than Ubisoft developers. These files are typically hosted on community hubs like CustomsForge, which serves as the central database for over 50,000 custom tracks. While they vary in quality, many CDLCs feature full arrangements for lead, rhythm, and bass guitar. How to Install CDLC on PC (Steam)
Installing CDLC requires a one-time setup to "patch" your game so it recognizes unofficial files.
Own the Correct "Base" Song: Most CDLC is programmed to use the AppID of a specific official song to function. The industry standard is "Cherub Rock" by The Smashing Pumpkins. You must own this official DLC for most customs to work.
Download the DLL File: Visit the CustomsForge Use CDLC thread to download the D3DX9_42.dll file (also known as the "CDLC enabler").
Place the DLL: Navigate to your Rocksmith 2014 root folder (typically C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Rocksmith2014) and paste the .dll file there.
Add Songs: Create or open the dlc folder within your Rocksmith directory. Download custom songs (ending in _p.psarc for PC) and drop them into this folder. CDLC for Mac and Steam Deck
The CDLC community is a testament to the passion of musicians. As of 2025, new songs are added daily. Creators are now experimenting with:
A final ethical request: If you love CDLC, support the official game. Buy a few official DLC packs. Attend Ubisoft’s Rocksmith concerts. The healthier the official game is, the longer Ubisoft will look the other way regarding the custom scene.
CDLC stands for Custom Downloadable Content. It is user-created content made by the community using official software tools released by Ubisoft. Unlike the Official DLC (ODLC) you buy on Steam or consoles, CDLC is created by players, for players, and is almost always shared for free.
It allows the Rocksmith game engine to read "custom" song files, effectively allowing you to play almost any song in existence, provided someone has taken the time to transcribe it. Song selection : Users choose a song they