Get Free Music For YouTube: No Copyright, No Worries!

Hey everyone! If you're diving into the YouTube game, you know that finding the right music is a total game-changer. But, navigating the world of copyright can feel like a minefield, right? That's where copyright free commercial music comes in – your golden ticket to spicing up your videos without the fear of getting a strike. In this guide, we're going to explore everything you need to know about accessing and using royalty-free music for your YouTube channel. We'll cover how to find it, what licenses to look out for, and how to make sure your content stays safe and sound. Let's get started and turn your videos into absolute bangers!

1. Understanding Copyright and YouTube Music Policies

Alright, let's break down the basics. Copyright free commercial music is music that you can use in your videos without having to pay royalties to the original creator. This is different from music that is copyrighted, which means the rights to the music are owned by someone else. When you use copyrighted music on YouTube, you could face a few issues. First off, YouTube has a system to detect copyrighted music. If the system finds it, the original rights holder might monetize your video (meaning they get the ad revenue), or they could block it in certain countries or completely take it down. It's a risk, guys! YouTube has really strict rules regarding music use. They want to protect the rights of musicians, and they’ve got tools in place to make sure they do. It's all about respecting creators and ensuring they get compensated for their work. To avoid these problems, you can either get permission to use copyrighted music (which can be expensive and complicated) or opt for copyright free commercial music.

Think of it like this: if you're borrowing a book from the library, you have to return it. If you buy it, it's yours to keep. With music, it's the same idea. Copyrighted music is like borrowing; you need permission (a license) to use it. Copyright free commercial music, on the other hand, is like buying; you have the rights to use it without further payments, depending on the license. The key is understanding the terms of the license. Some licenses allow you to use the music for any purpose, even commercial, while others may have restrictions. Always read the fine print! This will determine how, where, and for how long you can use the music. Pay attention to the attribution requirements as well. Some licenses require you to credit the artist in your video description. Failing to do so could violate the license and cause problems. The goal is to use music that perfectly fits your video, matches your brand, and doesn't put your channel at risk. So, now, let's find out where we can find some of these amazing copyright free commercial music tracks for your videos!

2. Where to Find Royalty-Free Music for YouTube

So, where do you go to find this magical copyright free commercial music? There are loads of websites offering royalty-free music. Here are some of the most popular and reliable sources:

• YouTube Audio Library: YouTube itself provides a fantastic library of free music that you can use in your videos. The best part? It's completely free and safe to use. You don't have to worry about copyright strikes or monetization issues. It's a great place to start, especially if you're just getting started! You can filter by genre, mood, duration, and attribution requirements. This allows you to quickly find music that matches your video's vibe.
• Epidemic Sound: This is a popular choice among YouTubers. Epidemic Sound offers a massive library of high-quality tracks. It’s a subscription-based service, meaning you pay a monthly or annual fee. It's an investment, but it gives you access to a vast amount of music, with new tracks added regularly. Their music is specifically licensed for online video creators. This means you can use their music on YouTube without worrying about copyright claims. They're also constantly updating their library, so you'll always find something new. The search and filtering options are top-notch too. It is a great option if you’re planning on making content consistently and want a wide variety of musical options.
• Artlist: Another strong contender, Artlist is also a subscription service. Artlist is known for its high-quality tracks, often used in professional video productions. Like Epidemic Sound, Artlist offers a license that covers commercial use on YouTube. This means you can monetize your videos without getting into trouble. They usually have excellent tracks in many genres, from cinematic scores to upbeat pop songs. Artlist is a solid choice if you're looking for premium audio that elevates your content.
• PremiumBeat: PremiumBeat is a curated marketplace that focuses on high-quality music. They have a license option for commercial use. Their pricing is usually based on the track and the usage (like commercial and YouTube). While not entirely free in the traditional sense, the quality and licensing options make it worth exploring, especially if you're looking for something unique.
• Free Music Archive (FMA): FMA is a great resource that provides a wide variety of tracks. It is completely free, but be sure to check the license for each track. Some tracks may require attribution, while others may have usage restrictions. Always double-check the license before using any music from FMA. It is a diverse platform, with music covering many genres, from electronic to jazz. It's a good place to discover tracks, especially for smaller projects. Don’t forget to be careful about attribution requirements.

When choosing a platform, consider factors like the library size, pricing (subscription vs. one-time purchase), the quality of the music, and the licensing terms. Always read the license agreement to ensure you're clear on how you can use the music. Check for any limitations on commercial use and attribution requirements. These are crucial for avoiding any issues with your YouTube channel. With these sites, you can find tons of copyright free commercial music to use for your channel.

2.1. YouTube Audio Library: The Ultimate Free Resource

Let's delve deeper into the treasure trove of YouTube's Audio Library. Seriously, guys, this is a game-changer! The YouTube Audio Library is a collection of royalty-free music and sound effects that you can use for your videos without any copyright issues. It's a gift from YouTube itself, designed to help creators like us enhance our content without the fear of copyright claims or monetization troubles. You access it directly from your YouTube Studio, making it super convenient to search, preview, and download tracks. The best part? Everything in the Audio Library is free to use for both personal and commercial purposes, making it perfect for creators of all sizes. This means you can monetize your videos and still use the music. You won't be blocked, muted, or have your video taken down due to copyright infringements. It is a win-win!

The library is well-organized and includes several useful filters to help you find the perfect track for your video. You can filter by genre (classical, pop, electronic, etc.), mood (happy, sad, inspiring, etc.), and even duration. This lets you quickly narrow down your options. You can also search by keywords, such as “motivational” or “travel.” You can easily preview tracks before downloading them. This saves a lot of time, allowing you to ensure that the music fits your video perfectly. It's a smart feature that lets you make the best choice for your project. Many tracks also indicate whether they require attribution. Pay attention to this. If attribution is required, make sure you give credit to the artist in your video description. Even if attribution isn’t required, it's always a nice gesture to give credit where it’s due. Giving credit can help the artist and introduce your audience to new artists.

The YouTube Audio Library is a fantastic starting point for anyone looking for copyright free commercial music. It's free, easy to use, and offers a diverse range of music to choose from. It's an essential tool for every YouTube creator! Use it well and let your videos sound amazing!

2.2. Exploring Subscription-Based Music Services

Subscription-based music services are a fantastic option for YouTubers, especially if you are serious about creating high-quality video content. Platforms like Epidemic Sound and Artlist offer vast libraries of high-quality tracks, sound effects, and loops, all licensed for commercial use on platforms like YouTube. The main advantage of these services is convenience and peace of mind. With a subscription, you get unlimited access to their entire music library. You don't have to worry about individual licensing fees for each track. Once you are subscribed, you can download and use as many tracks as you want. Also, the licensing terms are generally straightforward. You can monetize your videos without fear of copyright strikes. These services take care of the licensing for you, ensuring that you comply with YouTube's terms of service.

These platforms often curate their music libraries. This means they only include high-quality tracks, produced by professional musicians. This can really elevate your video quality and give your channel a more polished feel. They also constantly update their libraries with new tracks. You will always find fresh music to incorporate into your content. They offer excellent search and filtering options, so you can easily find music that matches the mood and genre of your videos. You can search by genre, mood, tempo, duration, and even instruments. This allows you to narrow down your options quickly. You can find many tracks with different feels, genres, and lengths. This flexibility ensures that your videos always have fresh, engaging soundtracks. Many subscription services offer pre-made playlists and curated collections, which can save you a lot of time and effort. They might have playlists tailored to specific genres, themes, or moods. Subscription services require a monthly or annual fee. It is worth the investment if you plan on making a lot of videos. You can use it to create engaging content without having to worry about the hassle of music licensing and copyright issues. It's a small price to pay for the quality and convenience that these platforms offer.

2.3. Navigating Free Music Archives and Marketplaces

Free music archives and marketplaces offer a great alternative for YouTubers looking for copyright free commercial music without the commitment of a subscription fee. Platforms like Free Music Archive (FMA) provide a vast library of tracks from independent artists, all available for free download. It is a great starting point for any creator looking for music to enhance their videos without any financial obligations. However, using these resources requires a bit more caution compared to subscription services or YouTube's Audio Library. Every track comes with its own license, dictating how you can use it. Some tracks are free to use for commercial purposes, while others may require attribution or have other restrictions. This is very important: You must read and understand the license terms before using any music. Failure to comply can lead to copyright issues, which we all want to avoid. This is an important step to ensure you’re on the right track.

Free music archives often have diverse genres, from electronic to classical, and even experimental. You will be surprised by the variety of tracks you can find. Marketplaces, such as PremiumBeat (which offers a variety of licenses, including royalty-free options), can also provide high-quality tracks for your YouTube videos. With these sites, you usually have to pay a one-time fee per track, rather than a subscription. They often offer music from professional composers and sound designers, giving your videos a premium feel. These platforms provide good quality options to create stunning visuals. It's essential to carefully review the licensing terms to understand the permitted usage, whether you need to give attribution, and if commercial use is permitted. They may also have options for different licenses based on how you plan to use the music. Also, some platforms offer a wide range of licensing options. Always check the details of each track to make sure it fits your needs.

3. Understanding Music Licensing: Creative Commons and Beyond

Okay, let's dive deeper into music licensing. When using copyright free commercial music, understanding the different types of licenses is absolutely crucial. It helps you avoid copyright issues and ensures you’re using the music legally. Here's a breakdown of the most common licenses you'll encounter:

• Creative Commons Licenses: These are widely used licenses that allow creators to share their music with specific terms. There are several types of Creative Commons licenses. Each has different rules about what you can and can't do with the music.

  • CC BY (Attribution): This is one of the most permissive licenses. You can use the music for almost any purpose, even commercial, as long as you give credit to the artist. You must provide attribution, so the artist is acknowledged properly.
  • CC BY-SA (Attribution-ShareAlike): Similar to CC BY, but any derivative works (your videos) must be licensed under the same terms. If you modify the original track, you must also share your modified version under the same license.
  • CC BY-NC (Attribution-NonCommercial): You can use the music for non-commercial purposes only. You can't monetize your video. This is very important. This license type is commonly used by independent artists.
  • CC BY-NC-SA (Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike): Combines the rules of the above two. You can only use the music for non-commercial purposes. Any derivative works must also be licensed under the same terms.
  • CC BY-ND (Attribution-NoDerivatives): You can use the music as long as you give credit, but you can't make any changes to the track. The song must be used exactly as it is.
  • CC BY-NC-ND (Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives): The most restrictive. You can only use the music for non-commercial purposes, and you can't modify it.

• Royalty-Free Licenses: These licenses typically mean that you pay a one-time fee to use the music. You don't have to pay royalties for each use. These are very common with subscription-based services and marketplaces. The terms of a royalty-free license will vary. Always read the license to check if commercial use is permitted. Royalty-free licenses often allow for commercial use, making them great for YouTube videos.

• Public Domain: Music in the public domain is no longer protected by copyright. You can use this music for any purpose without any restrictions. This usually happens after a certain amount of time has passed since the composer's death. You can use it to create your content. This is rare because not all music will fall under this category. Make sure your tracks are indeed in the public domain.

Understanding these licenses helps you choose the right music for your videos. Always read the license terms carefully before using any music. Pay attention to the details, such as commercial use, attribution requirements, and modification restrictions. This is how you avoid copyright issues.

3.1. Demystifying Creative Commons Licenses

Creative Commons (CC) licenses are a fantastic resource for finding copyright free commercial music. They give creators a way to share their work while still retaining some rights. It is a really simple concept, offering a spectrum of options. The most important thing is to understand what each license allows and restricts. It is all about the specific terms and conditions. The key is to know the different components. These licenses are built around four key elements:

• Attribution (BY): This is the most common. It means you must give credit to the original creator of the music. You typically need to include the artist's name, the title of the track, and the license information in your video description. Even if it is not required, it is always a good practice to credit the artist and show your support.
• NonCommercial (NC): This means you can only use the music for non-commercial purposes. You can’t monetize your video or use the music for business purposes. If you are a YouTuber who monetizes their content, you must avoid licenses with NC.
• ShareAlike (SA): If you modify the music or create a derivative work, you must license your new work under the same terms as the original. This ensures that all future works also remain free to share and reuse. This is super important, especially if you plan on editing any of your tracks.
• NoDerivatives (ND): You can’t modify the music in any way. You must use it as it is. No editing, remixing, or sampling allowed.

These four elements combine to create different types of CC licenses. CC BY is the most permissive license. It only requires attribution. CC BY-NC is non-commercial. CC BY-SA requires attribution and share-alike. CC BY-ND is attribution and no derivatives. Knowing the terms of each license is essential for protecting your YouTube channel. Understanding the terms can allow you to decide which tracks will fit best for your content. They make it easy to comply with copyright rules while still adding amazing music to your videos. If you are a YouTuber, you’ll be using CC BY or the most permissive option.

3.2. Understanding Royalty-Free Music and Its Benefits

Royalty-free music is a great option for YouTube creators looking for copyright free commercial music. It simplifies the licensing process and gives you a hassle-free way to use music in your videos. With royalty-free licenses, you usually pay a one-time fee. You get to use the music in your videos without having to pay royalties every time your video is viewed. This is especially beneficial if you plan on monetizing your content or if you expect your video to get a lot of views. It is a cost-effective way to use music for your channel. One of the primary benefits of royalty-free music is its simplicity. You pay the license fee, and you're done. You don't have to worry about ongoing royalty payments or tracking views. This is a huge time-saver, giving you more time to focus on creating content. It avoids the administrative headaches of tracking royalties and reporting views.

Many royalty-free licenses allow for commercial use. This means you can monetize your videos and make money from ads without worrying about copyright claims. If you monetize your videos, this is super important. You have peace of mind knowing that you're legally using the music in your videos. Many royalty-free music providers offer a wide variety of tracks in various genres and moods. You can find everything from cinematic scores to upbeat pop songs. Royalty-free music is very cost-effective, especially for channels that regularly produce videos. While the initial cost might be higher than using free music, you save time and energy in the long run. You avoid any potential issues that can arise. To ensure you are using music legally, you must always read the license carefully. Pay attention to the terms regarding commercial use, attribution (if required), and any other restrictions. Some licenses might have limits on the number of times you can use the music or the platforms where you can use it. It is very crucial to understand these points. Royalty-free music is a fantastic option for YouTube creators looking to enhance their content without the hassle of copyright issues.

3.3. Public Domain Music: What You Need to Know

Public domain music is a fantastic resource for YouTubers looking for copyright free commercial music. This means that the music is no longer protected by copyright. Anyone can use it for any purpose, without needing permission or paying royalties. It's like the music has entered the public domain, becoming available for everyone to enjoy. The main reason music enters the public domain is because the copyright has expired. In most countries, this happens a certain number of years after the composer's death. There are also situations where creators might choose to release their work into the public domain. It is free, and it opens up a huge catalog of music for you to use. This includes iconic pieces like works by Mozart, Bach, and Beethoven. You can use their tracks to create content and share them with your audience. You won't encounter copyright strikes or monetization issues.

However, finding public domain music requires a bit of research. You need to confirm that a track is truly in the public domain. This involves checking the composer's death date and the copyright laws in your country. Keep in mind that you must check this, as it can vary from place to place. This is crucial! You might come across modern remixes or recordings of public domain works that are protected by copyright. Make sure you’re using the original version to avoid any issues. When searching for public domain music, always verify the source. Use trusted websites and archives, such as the IMSLP (International Music Score Library Project). You will find reliable public domain scores and recordings. Public domain music can add a classical feel to your content. You can even create a vintage aesthetic. With public domain music, you can create content without having to worry about copyright restrictions.

4. Best Practices for Using Copyright-Free Music on YouTube

Alright, let's talk about the best ways to use copyright free commercial music on YouTube to avoid any headaches. Even though the music is royalty-free, there are still a few things you need to keep in mind to make sure your use of the music is legal and your channel stays in good standing:

• Always Read the License: This is the most important thing. Each track of copyright free commercial music has a license that spells out the terms of use. Does it allow commercial use? Does it require attribution? Can you modify the music? Always read the license carefully before using the music. Read it like you’re studying for a test!
• Give Credit Where It's Due: Many licenses require you to give credit to the artist. Make sure you include the artist's name, the song title, and the license information in your video description. This is the right thing to do, but it is also a legal requirement.
• Download from Trusted Sources: Stick to reputable websites. Avoid downloading music from shady or unreliable sources. Stick with the popular sites mentioned earlier. Downloading from reliable sources reduces the risk of copyright issues. If you don’t, your channel is at risk.
• Check for Content ID Claims: Even though the music is royalty-free, sometimes Content ID claims can happen. This is because other users might use the same music and claim it as their own. If you get a Content ID claim, don't panic. The best thing to do is provide proof of your license. If you can demonstrate that you have the right to use the music, the claim should be resolved quickly.
• Keep Proof of Your License: Always keep a copy of the license agreement for any music you use. This could be a screenshot, a downloaded document, or any other proof. If you ever run into a copyright dispute, you'll need this proof to demonstrate that you’re using the music legally.
• Stay Updated: Copyright laws can change. Keep an eye on any updates or changes in licensing terms. Staying informed helps you avoid any potential issues. Subscribing to newsletters or following blogs related to music licensing can keep you updated.

By following these best practices, you can confidently use copyright free commercial music on YouTube. You will avoid any potential problems and create great content.

4.1. Proper Attribution and Crediting Artists

Proper attribution is one of the most critical aspects of using copyright free commercial music, especially when the license requires it. When you use music under a license that requires attribution, it is essential to give credit to the artist properly. This involves including the artist's name, the song title, and the license information in your video description. It's a legal and ethical requirement that ensures the artist gets recognized for their work. Giving credit shows respect to the artist and also helps your audience discover new music and creators.

When adding the attribution, be as detailed as possible. List the artist's name, the song title, and the name of the music provider, such as the platform where you found the music. For example,