Free Background Music For YouTube: No Copyright!
Hey guys! Finding the perfect background music for your YouTube videos can be a game-changer. But let's be real, dealing with copyright issues is a total headache. That's why we're diving deep into the world of free background music for YouTube videos without copyright. This guide is your ultimate resource for spicing up your content without risking those dreaded copyright strikes. We'll explore various platforms, genres, and tips to ensure your videos sound amazing and stay compliant. Let's get started!
1. Understanding Copyright-Free Music
Let's kick things off by understanding what free background music really means. Copyright-free doesn't always mean free-to-use. Confused? Don't worry, we'll break it down. It generally means you can use the music without directly infringing on copyright laws, but there might still be licensing terms or attribution requirements. When searching for free music for YouTube, you will often come across terms like royalty-free and Creative Commons. Royalty-free music typically requires a one-time payment or subscription, granting you the right to use the music in multiple projects without ongoing royalty fees. Creative Commons, on the other hand, offers different licensing options, some of which allow free usage with attribution, while others may restrict commercial use or modifications. Understanding these nuances is crucial to ensure you stay within legal boundaries and avoid copyright issues. Always, always, always double-check the specific terms of the license before using any background music in your videos.
2. Best Websites for Royalty-Free Music
Okay, so where do you actually find this magical free background music? There are tons of websites out there, but some are definitely better than others. Let's talk about a few top contenders. First off, YouTube's own Audio Library is a fantastic place to start. It's packed with tracks you can use for free, and since it's YouTube's own library, you know you're in the clear with copyright. Then there's sites like Epidemic Sound and Artlist, which offer subscription-based services with a vast library of high-quality music. While they aren't free in the purest sense, the monthly fee can be worth it if you're creating a lot of content. For completely free music, check out sites like Free Music Archive, Incompetech, and Bensound. These platforms host music from independent artists who often offer their work under Creative Commons licenses. Just remember to read the fine print and give credit where it's due! Exploring these options will provide you with a diverse selection of royalty-free music to elevate your YouTube videos.
3. YouTube Audio Library: Your Go-To Resource
The YouTube Audio Library is a goldmine, guys! Seriously, if you're looking for free background music for YouTube, this should be your first stop. It's directly integrated into YouTube Studio, making it super convenient to browse and download tracks. The library is extensive, covering a wide range of genres and moods, from upbeat pop to mellow ambient. You can filter by genre, mood, instrument, and even attribution requirements, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your video. One of the biggest perks of using the YouTube Audio Library is the peace of mind it offers. Since YouTube provides the music, you know it's safe to use without worrying about copyright strikes. Plus, they're constantly adding new tracks, so there's always fresh content to explore. So, before you go scouring the internet for free music, take a deep dive into the YouTube Audio Library – you might just find your next favorite track!
4. Creative Commons Licenses Explained
Creative Commons licenses are the backbone of a lot of free background music online. Understanding these licenses is crucial to avoid any copyright headaches. There are several types of Creative Commons licenses, each with different terms and conditions. The most common one is the CC BY license, which allows you to use, share, and even modify the music for commercial purposes, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original creator. Other licenses might include restrictions on commercial use (CC BY-NC), modifications (CC BY-ND), or both (CC BY-NC-ND). There's also the CC0 license, which essentially puts the work into the public domain, meaning you can use it without any attribution. When you find free music with a Creative Commons license, make sure you understand the specific terms before using it in your videos. A little bit of research can save you a lot of trouble down the road. So, familiarize yourself with the different types of Creative Commons licenses – it's a game-changer for finding free and legal background music.
5. Websites Offering Creative Commons Music
Now that we've talked about Creative Commons licenses, let's look at some websites where you can find free background music licensed under these terms. Free Music Archive (FMA) is a fantastic resource, offering a curated selection of music across various genres, all available under Creative Commons licenses. It's a bit like a treasure hunt – you might have to dig a little, but you're sure to find some gems. Another great option is Incompetech, run by composer Kevin MacLeod. He offers a huge library of his music under Creative Commons licenses, and his tracks are widely used in YouTube videos. Bensound is another popular choice, offering a range of royalty-free music, some of which is available under Creative Commons. When using these sites, always double-check the specific license terms for each track to ensure you're complying with the requirements. Giving proper attribution is usually a must, so be sure to include the artist's name and the license details in your video description. These platforms make it easier than ever to find high-quality, free music for your YouTube projects.
6. Bensound: A Great Source for Free Music
Speaking of Bensound, let's give this platform a closer look. Bensound is a fantastic resource for free background music, especially if you're looking for professional-sounding tracks without breaking the bank. The site offers a range of music in various genres, from corporate and acoustic to cinematic and electronic. What sets Bensound apart is the quality of the music – these tracks sound polished and professional, making them perfect for adding a touch of class to your videos. While some tracks are available for free under a Creative Commons license (requiring attribution), Bensound also offers premium licenses for those who want to use the music without attribution or for commercial projects. Navigating the site is a breeze, with clear categories and a search function to help you find what you need. Whether you're creating a vlog, a tutorial, or a promotional video, Bensound has something to offer. So, if you're on the hunt for free, high-quality music, definitely check out Bensound. It's a gem for content creators!
7. Incompetech: Kevin MacLeod's Music Library
Incompetech, run by the legendary composer Kevin MacLeod, is another must-know resource for free background music. Kevin MacLeod has created an enormous library of music, covering just about every genre you can imagine, and he offers many of his tracks under Creative Commons licenses. This means you can use his music in your YouTube videos for free, as long as you provide attribution. Incompetech's website might look a little dated, but don't let that fool you – the music is top-notch. The site's search and filtering options are surprisingly robust, allowing you to find tracks by genre, mood, tempo, and even specific instruments. One of the cool things about Incompetech is the sheer variety of music available. Whether you need something upbeat and energetic, or something mellow and atmospheric, you're likely to find it here. So, if you're looking for a vast collection of free music from a talented composer, Incompetech is definitely worth exploring. Just remember to give credit where it's due – it's the least we can do to support artists like Kevin MacLeod!
8. Free Music Archive (FMA) for Unique Tracks
The Free Music Archive, or FMA, is a treasure trove of free background music, especially if you're looking for something a little different. FMA is more than just a music library; it's a community of artists, curators, and listeners dedicated to promoting free and legal music. The site offers a wide range of genres, from indie rock and electronic to classical and experimental, making it a great place to discover unique and interesting tracks. FMA's music is available under various Creative Commons licenses, so be sure to check the specific terms for each track before using it. The site's interface can be a bit overwhelming at first, but the search and filtering options are powerful, allowing you to narrow down your search by genre, license type, and even curator. One of the best things about FMA is the sheer diversity of music available. You're likely to find tracks here that you won't find anywhere else, making it a great option for adding a unique touch to your videos. So, if you're feeling adventurous and want to explore the world of free and independent music, definitely give the Free Music Archive a try!
9. Epidemic Sound: A Subscription-Based Option
Okay, so we've talked a lot about free background music, but let's also touch on subscription-based options. Epidemic Sound is a popular choice among YouTubers, and for good reason. It offers a massive library of high-quality music and sound effects, all covered by a simple license that protects you from copyright claims. While it's not free, the subscription fee can be well worth it if you're creating a lot of content. Epidemic Sound's library is incredibly diverse, covering just about every genre you can imagine, and they're constantly adding new tracks. The site's search and filtering options are excellent, making it easy to find the perfect music for your videos. One of the biggest advantages of Epidemic Sound is the peace of mind it offers. You don't have to worry about copyright strikes or attribution requirements – as long as you have an active subscription, you're covered. So, if you're serious about your YouTube channel and want access to a vast library of high-quality music with a simple license, Epidemic Sound is definitely worth considering. It's an investment in your content and your peace of mind.
10. Artlist: Another Top Music Subscription Service
Artlist is another big player in the world of music subscription services for content creators. Like Epidemic Sound, Artlist offers a vast library of high-quality music and sound effects, all covered by a license that protects you from copyright issues. Artlist's subscription model is a bit different – you pay an annual fee for unlimited access to their entire catalog, which can be a great deal if you're a heavy user. The quality of the music on Artlist is consistently high, and the library is curated by music industry professionals, ensuring a polished and professional sound. Artlist also offers a range of sound effects, which can be a valuable addition to your video editing toolkit. The site's interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy to browse and discover new music. One of the standout features of Artlist is its emphasis on cinematic music, making it a great choice for filmmakers and video creators looking for dramatic and emotional scores. So, if you're looking for a subscription-based music service with a focus on quality and cinematic sound, Artlist is definitely worth checking out. It's a powerful tool for elevating your video content.
11. SoundCloud: Discovering Indie Artists
SoundCloud is a fantastic platform for discovering independent artists and free background music. While not all music on SoundCloud is free to use, many artists offer their tracks under Creative Commons licenses, making them available for use in your YouTube videos. SoundCloud is a vibrant community of musicians and creators, and it's a great place to find unique and original music that you won't find anywhere else. The site's search and discovery features can be a bit hit-or-miss, but with a little digging, you can uncover some real gems. One of the best ways to find free music on SoundCloud is to search for tracks with a Creative Commons license or to follow artists who offer their music for free. When using music from SoundCloud, always double-check the license terms and give proper attribution to the artist. SoundCloud can be a bit of a wild card, but it's definitely worth exploring if you're looking for something fresh and different. It's a treasure trove of indie music waiting to be discovered.
12. Using Filters to Find the Perfect Track
Finding the perfect background music can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but using filters can make the process much easier. Most music libraries offer a range of filters to help you narrow down your search, such as genre, mood, tempo, and instrument. Genre filters are a great way to start – if you know you need something upbeat and electronic, you can filter out all the acoustic tracks. Mood filters can help you find music that matches the tone of your video, whether you're looking for something happy, sad, energetic, or relaxing. Tempo filters are useful for finding music that fits the pace of your video – a fast-paced video might benefit from a high-energy track, while a slower video might be better suited to something more mellow. Instrument filters can help you find music with specific instruments, such as piano, guitar, or strings. By using these filters effectively, you can quickly narrow down your search and find the perfect track for your YouTube video. It's all about working smarter, not harder!
13. Understanding Music Licensing Terms
We've touched on this before, but it's worth repeating: understanding music licensing terms is crucial for avoiding copyright issues. When you use background music in your videos, you're essentially using someone else's intellectual property, so you need to make sure you have the proper permissions. There are several types of licenses you might encounter, including royalty-free licenses, Creative Commons licenses, and traditional copyright licenses. Royalty-free licenses typically require a one-time payment or subscription fee, granting you the right to use the music in multiple projects without ongoing royalty payments. Creative Commons licenses, as we've discussed, offer a range of options, from free use with attribution to restrictions on commercial use or modifications. Traditional copyright licenses require you to negotiate directly with the copyright holder, which can be a complex and expensive process. Before using any music in your videos, take the time to understand the specific terms of the license. Pay attention to things like attribution requirements, commercial use restrictions, and any other limitations. A little bit of due diligence can save you a lot of headaches down the road. Knowledge is power, guys!
14. Avoiding Copyright Strikes on YouTube
Copyright strikes are the bane of every YouTuber's existence. Getting a copyright strike can result in your video being taken down, your channel being penalized, or even your account being terminated. To avoid copyright strikes, it's essential to use background music that you have the proper rights to use. This means either using music that you created yourself, music that is in the public domain, or music that you have licensed properly. As we've discussed, the YouTube Audio Library is a safe bet, as is music licensed under Creative Commons. If you're using music from a subscription service like Epidemic Sound or Artlist, make sure you have an active subscription and that your usage is in compliance with their terms. One of the most common causes of copyright strikes is using copyrighted music without permission. This can happen if you download a song from the internet and use it in your video without obtaining the necessary licenses. YouTube's Content ID system is very effective at detecting copyrighted music, so it's not worth the risk. Always err on the side of caution and make sure you have the rights to use any music in your videos. Your channel will thank you for it!
15. Giving Proper Attribution to Artists
When using free background music under a Creative Commons license, giving proper attribution is often a requirement. Attribution is simply giving credit to the artist or composer for their work. This is not only a legal requirement for many Creative Commons licenses, but it's also a respectful thing to do. Artists deserve recognition for their work, and attribution helps them get that recognition. The specific requirements for attribution can vary depending on the license, but generally, you'll need to include the artist's name, the title of the song, the license type, and a link to the original source. This information can usually be found on the website where you downloaded the music. The easiest way to give attribution is to include this information in your video description. You can create a dedicated section for music credits, or simply include the information alongside your other credits. Giving proper attribution is a simple way to support artists and ensure you're complying with the terms of the license. It's a win-win!
16. Tips for Finding the Right Music Mood
The background music you choose can have a huge impact on the overall mood and feel of your video. The right music can enhance your message, engage your audience, and make your video more memorable. But how do you find the right music mood? First, consider the tone and subject matter of your video. Is it a lighthearted comedy, a serious documentary, or an action-packed adventure? The music should complement the tone of your video, not clash with it. Think about the emotions you want to evoke in your viewers. Do you want them to feel happy, sad, excited, or relaxed? Use mood filters on music libraries to find tracks that match the desired emotions. Also, consider the pace and energy of your video. A fast-paced video might benefit from upbeat and energetic music, while a slower video might be better suited to something more mellow and atmospheric. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles of music to see what works best. Ultimately, the right music mood is the one that enhances your video and resonates with your audience. Trust your instincts and have fun with it!
17. Exploring Different Music Genres
Don't limit yourself to just one genre of background music! Exploring different genres can help you discover new sounds and find the perfect fit for your videos. There are countless genres and subgenres to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Pop music is a popular choice for its upbeat and catchy melodies. Electronic music can add a modern and energetic vibe to your videos. Classical music can lend a touch of elegance and sophistication. Acoustic music can create a warm and intimate atmosphere. Cinematic music is perfect for dramatic and emotional scenes. Ambient music can create a sense of calm and relaxation. World music can add an exotic and unique flavor to your videos. The possibilities are endless! Take some time to browse different genres and see what resonates with you. You might be surprised at what you discover. Experimenting with different genres can help you create a more diverse and engaging soundtrack for your YouTube videos. It's all about finding the right musical flavor for your content.
18. Creating Your Own Music
Okay, this might sound intimidating, but hear me out! If you're feeling ambitious, creating your own background music can be a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your videos and avoid copyright issues altogether. You don't need to be a professional musician to create simple but effective tracks. There are tons of user-friendly music production software and apps available, such as GarageBand, Ableton Live, and FL Studio. These tools allow you to create music using virtual instruments, loops, and samples, even if you don't know how to play a real instrument. You can also collaborate with other musicians or hire a composer to create custom music for your videos. While creating your own music takes time and effort, the results can be incredibly rewarding. You'll have a unique soundtrack that perfectly complements your content, and you'll have complete control over the copyright. Plus, it's a great way to learn a new skill! So, if you're feeling creative, give it a try – you might just surprise yourself. Making your own music can be a game-changer for your channel.
19. Using Sound Effects to Enhance Videos
Background music isn't the only way to enhance your videos – sound effects can also play a crucial role. Sound effects can add realism, humor, and drama to your videos, making them more engaging and immersive. Think about the sounds you hear in a movie – the whoosh of a door closing, the clatter of footsteps, the crash of thunder. These sounds might seem subtle, but they can have a big impact on the overall experience. There are many websites that offer free sound effects, such as Freesound, Zapsplat, and SoundBible. You can also find sound effects in subscription-based music libraries like Epidemic Sound and Artlist. When using sound effects, it's important to use them sparingly and appropriately. Too many sound effects can be distracting, while the wrong sound effect can ruin the mood. Use sound effects to emphasize key moments in your video and to create a more immersive experience for your viewers. A well-placed sound effect can take your video to the next level. So, don't underestimate the power of sound effects!
20. Editing Music to Fit Your Video
Finding the right background music is only half the battle – you also need to edit it to fit your video. A song that's too long or too short can disrupt the flow of your video, while a song that starts or ends abruptly can sound jarring. Fortunately, most video editing software programs have built-in audio editing tools that allow you to trim, fade, and adjust the volume of your music. You can also use these tools to create smooth transitions between different tracks. When editing music, pay attention to the pacing and rhythm of your video. Try to match the music to the visuals, creating a seamless and cohesive experience for your viewers. Don't be afraid to cut out sections of the music that don't fit, or to loop sections that you want to repeat. Editing music can take some practice, but it's a crucial skill for creating professional-sounding videos. A well-edited soundtrack can make all the difference in the world. So, master the art of music editing!
21. Finding Looped Music for Longer Videos
For longer videos, finding background music that loops seamlessly can be a lifesaver. Looped music is designed to repeat without any noticeable breaks or gaps, allowing you to use the same track for extended periods without it sounding repetitive. Many music libraries offer looped versions of their tracks, or you can create your own loops using audio editing software. When choosing looped music, look for tracks that have a consistent rhythm and tempo, and that don't have any sudden changes or dramatic shifts. Tracks with a repetitive structure are generally easier to loop. When creating your own loops, pay attention to the beginning and end of the track. You want to create a smooth transition between the end of the track and the beginning, so that the loop sounds seamless. Looped music is a great way to add background ambiance to your videos without having to constantly switch tracks. It's a simple but effective technique for creating a professional-sounding soundtrack.
22. Creating Playlists for Different Video Styles
One smart way to stay organized and efficient with your background music is to create playlists for different video styles. If you create a variety of content, you'll likely need different types of music for each style. For example, you might have a playlist for upbeat and energetic music for vlogs, a playlist for mellow and atmospheric music for tutorials, and a playlist for dramatic and cinematic music for short films. Creating playlists allows you to quickly find the right music for each video, without having to search through your entire library every time. You can create playlists on your computer, in your music library software, or even on music streaming platforms like Spotify or Apple Music. Organizing your music in this way can save you a lot of time and effort, and it can also help you develop a consistent sound for your channel. It's all about working smarter, not harder!
23. Using Music to Tell a Story
Background music can be a powerful storytelling tool. Just like in a movie, music can help to set the scene, create mood, and enhance the emotional impact of your video. Think about how the music changes in a movie during different scenes – a tense scene might have suspenseful music, while a romantic scene might have soft and gentle music. You can use the same techniques in your YouTube videos. Choose music that complements the story you're telling and that helps to convey the emotions you want your viewers to feel. For example, if you're telling a personal story, you might use intimate and reflective music. If you're creating a travel vlog, you might use upbeat and adventurous music. The right music can elevate your storytelling and make your videos more engaging and memorable. It's all about creating a cohesive and immersive experience for your audience.
24. The Importance of Audio Quality
While the music itself is important, the audio quality is just as crucial. No matter how great the music is, if it sounds distorted, muffled, or too quiet, it will detract from your video. Make sure you're using high-quality audio files and that your music is properly mixed and mastered. When downloading free background music, check the file format and bitrate. MP3 files with a bitrate of 320kbps are generally considered to be high-quality. Also, pay attention to the volume levels of your music. You want the music to be loud enough to be heard, but not so loud that it overpowers your voice or other sounds in your video. Use your video editing software to adjust the volume levels and to ensure that the music sounds clear and balanced. Good audio quality is essential for creating a professional-sounding video. Don't let poor audio ruin your hard work!
25. Mixing Music with Voiceovers
If your video includes a voiceover, it's important to mix the music properly so that it doesn't clash with your voice. The goal is to create a balanced and harmonious soundscape where both the music and the voiceover can be heard clearly. A common technique is to lower the volume of the music during sections where you're speaking, and then raise it again during sections where there's no voiceover. This is often called ducking the music. Most video editing software programs have audio mixing tools that allow you to adjust the volume levels of different tracks independently. Experiment with different volume levels until you find a mix that sounds good. Also, pay attention to the frequencies of your voice and the music. If the music has a lot of frequencies in the same range as your voice, it can sound muddy or cluttered. Try using EQ (equalization) to adjust the frequencies of the music and create more separation between your voice and the music. Mixing music with voiceovers takes practice, but it's a crucial skill for creating a polished and professional-sounding video.
26. Copyright-Free Music for Commercial Use
If you're creating videos for commercial purposes, such as promoting your business or selling products, you need to be extra careful about copyright. Not all free background music is suitable for commercial use. Many Creative Commons licenses, for example, restrict commercial use. Make sure you read the terms of the license carefully before using any music in a commercial video. If you're unsure whether a particular track is suitable for commercial use, it's best to err on the side of caution and choose a different track. You can also look for music that is explicitly licensed for commercial use, such as royalty-free music with a commercial license. Subscription-based music libraries like Epidemic Sound and Artlist typically offer commercial licenses as part of their subscription plans. Using copyright-free music in your commercial videos is essential for avoiding legal issues and protecting your business. Don't take any risks – always make sure you have the proper rights to use the music.
27. Finding Music for Different Video Lengths
The length of your video will influence the type of background music you choose. For short videos, you can often get away with using a single track, but for longer videos, you'll need to think more strategically about how to use music to keep your audience engaged. For shorter videos, focus on finding a track that captures the mood and tone you're going for. For longer videos, consider using multiple tracks to create a more dynamic and varied soundtrack. You can use different tracks for different sections of your video, or you can use looped music to provide a consistent background ambiance. It's also important to think about the pacing of your video. Fast-paced videos might benefit from upbeat and energetic music, while slower videos might be better suited to something more mellow and atmospheric. Finding the right music for different video lengths is all about creating a soundtrack that complements your content and keeps your audience engaged.
28. Mobile Apps for Finding Music on the Go
In today's world, we're always on the go, and sometimes inspiration strikes when we least expect it. Fortunately, there are several mobile apps that make it easy to find background music for your videos, even when you're away from your computer. Many music libraries, such as Epidemic Sound and Artlist, have their own mobile apps that allow you to browse and download tracks on your phone or tablet. There are also apps that specialize in free music, such as Jamendo and Ccmixter. These apps allow you to search for music, listen to previews, and download tracks directly to your device. Mobile apps are a great way to find music on the go, whether you're commuting, traveling, or simply relaxing at home. They make it easy to discover new music and to add tracks to your video editing workflow, no matter where you are. So, take advantage of these mobile tools and find the perfect soundtrack for your videos!
29. Building a Music Library Over Time
Finding free background music can be an ongoing process, so it's a good idea to start building your own music library over time. Every time you find a track that you like, download it and add it to your collection. Organize your music library by genre, mood, or video style, making it easy to find what you need when you need it. As your library grows, you'll have a wider range of options to choose from, and you'll be able to create more diverse and engaging soundtracks for your videos. Building a music library takes time and effort, but it's an investment that will pay off in the long run. A well-curated music library is a valuable asset for any content creator. So, start collecting today and watch your musical resources grow!
30. Staying Updated on Copyright Laws
Finally, it's crucial to stay updated on copyright laws and best practices. Copyright laws can be complex and ever-changing, so it's important to stay informed about your rights and responsibilities as a content creator. Follow copyright blogs, read articles, and attend webinars to stay up-to-date on the latest developments. Also, be sure to review the terms of service and licensing agreements for any music libraries or platforms you use. If you're unsure about anything, it's always best to seek legal advice. Staying informed about copyright is essential for avoiding legal issues and protecting your creative work. It's an ongoing process, but it's well worth the effort. So, make copyright education a priority and ensure you're always using music legally and ethically. Your channel's future depends on it!
