YouTube Copyright Free Music: A Creator's Guide

Are you a content creator looking for the perfect copyright free music for YouTube? Well, you've come to the right place! Finding the right background music can be a game-changer for your videos, making them more engaging and professional. But navigating the world of copyright can be tricky, so let's break it down and explore how you can source amazing tunes without risking any copyright strikes.

Understanding Copyright and YouTube

First off, let's chat about copyright. In simple terms, copyright protects the creators of original works, including music. This means that if you want to use a song in your video, you typically need permission from the copyright holder, which often involves paying a licensing fee. Now, I know what you're thinking: “Ugh, this sounds complicated!” And you're not wrong, it can be. But don't worry, guys, we're here to make it super clear.

YouTube takes copyright seriously, and they have systems in place to detect copyrighted material. If you use a copyrighted song without permission, you could face several consequences. Your video might get muted, meaning no one will hear the audio. It could also get demonetized, which means you won't earn any ad revenue from it. Even worse, your video could be taken down entirely, or you could receive a copyright strike. Too many strikes, and your channel could be terminated. Yikes!

So, what's the solution? Well, that’s where copyright-free music comes in. Using copyright free music for YouTube ensures you steer clear of these issues and keep your channel in good standing. Plus, there are tons of fantastic tracks available that can really elevate your content. Let's dive into where you can find this magical music!

Where to Find Copyright Free Music

Okay, let's get to the good stuff! Where can you actually find copyright free music for YouTube? There are several amazing resources out there, each with its own pros and cons. I'm going to walk you through some of the best options so you can start building your perfect soundtrack.

1. YouTube Audio Library

The YouTube Audio Library is a goldmine for creators. It's a collection of free music and sound effects that YouTube provides directly to its users. This is probably the safest bet since YouTube itself is giving you the green light to use these tracks. The library is easy to access through your YouTube Studio dashboard, and you can search by genre, mood, instrument, and more. It’s super user-friendly, and there’s a lot of variety to choose from. Whether you're looking for upbeat pop, cinematic scores, or quirky sound effects, the YouTube Audio Library has got you covered.

2. Royalty Free Music Platforms

Next up, we have royalty-free music platforms. These sites offer a vast array of tracks that you can use after paying a one-time fee or subscribing to a service. The term "royalty-free" can be a little misleading because it doesn't always mean the music is free. It means you don't have to pay royalties to the copyright holder each time your video is played. Instead, you get a license that covers your usage. Some popular platforms include:

• Epidemic Sound: This is a big player in the royalty-free music world. They offer a subscription-based service that gives you access to a massive library of high-quality tracks and sound effects. The cool thing about Epidemic Sound is that their licenses cover you on YouTube and other platforms, so you’re pretty well protected. Their selection of music is broad.
• Artlist: Similar to Epidemic Sound, Artlist offers a subscription model with unlimited access to their music catalog. Artlist is known for its curated collection of music, meaning they focus on quality over quantity. If you’re looking for cinematic and indie-style tracks, Artlist is definitely worth checking out.
• PremiumBeat: This platform is owned by Shutterstock, and it offers a more boutique selection of tracks. Instead of a subscription, you can purchase individual licenses, which can be a good option if you only need a few songs. PremiumBeat is known for its high-production-value music, so you'll find some really polished tracks here.
• Soundstripe: Soundstripe is another subscription-based service that gives you access to a growing library of music and sound effects. They offer different subscription tiers based on your needs, making it a flexible option for creators of all sizes.

3. Creative Commons Music

Creative Commons is a non-profit organization that provides free licenses for creators to share their work. Music licensed under Creative Commons can often be used for free, but it’s crucial to understand the specific terms of the license. There are different types of Creative Commons licenses, and some may require you to give attribution to the artist, while others might restrict commercial use. Always double-check the license before using a track to make sure you’re complying with the terms.

Some great places to find Creative Commons music include:

• CCMixter: This site is a community-based platform where musicians share their work under Creative Commons licenses. It’s a fantastic resource for finding unique and independent music.
• Free Music Archive: The Free Music Archive is another excellent source for Creative Commons music. It’s curated by WFMU, a freeform radio station, so you can expect a diverse range of genres and styles.
• Jamendo: Jamendo offers both royalty-free music and Creative Commons music, so you’ll find a wide variety of options here. They have a strong focus on independent artists, making it a great place to discover new talent.

4. Public Domain Music

Public domain music refers to compositions whose copyright has expired or been forfeited. This means you can use these tracks freely without any restrictions. However, keep in mind that while the composition itself might be in the public domain, a particular recording of it might still be under copyright. For example, Beethoven’s symphonies are in the public domain, but a specific recording by the Berlin Philharmonic might still be protected. So, always verify the copyright status of the recording you intend to use.

How to Choose the Right Music for Your Videos

Now that you know where to find copyright free music for YouTube, let's talk about how to choose the right tracks for your videos. The music you select can significantly impact the overall feel and effectiveness of your content, so it’s worth taking the time to find the perfect fit.

1. Consider Your Video's Mood and Tone

The first thing to think about is the mood and tone of your video. Is it upbeat and energetic? Or is it more reflective and emotional? The music should complement the overall vibe you're going for. If you're creating a high-energy vlog, you'll want music that's fast-paced and exciting. If you're making a tutorial, you might opt for something more mellow and unobtrusive. Matching the music to the mood of your video will make it more engaging and enjoyable for your audience.

2. Think About Your Target Audience

Your target audience should also influence your music choices. What kind of music do they enjoy? What genres resonate with them? If you’re creating content for gamers, you might consider using electronic or orchestral tracks. If your audience is interested in lifestyle content, you might lean towards pop or acoustic music. Thinking about your audience’s preferences will help you choose music that they’ll connect with.

3. Pay Attention to the Genre

The genre of music you choose can also play a significant role in how your video is perceived. Different genres evoke different emotions and associations. For example, classical music can add a touch of sophistication, while electronic music can create a modern and futuristic feel. Consider the genre conventions and how they align with your video’s theme.

4. Test Different Tracks

Don't be afraid to experiment with different tracks until you find the perfect one. Sometimes, the music you initially thought would work might not be the best fit once you put it in the video. Try out several options and see how they feel. It can also be helpful to get feedback from others. Share your video with friends or fellow creators and ask for their opinions on the music.

5. Ensure the Music Doesn't Overpower Your Content

While music can enhance your video, it shouldn’t overshadow your content. Make sure the music complements your visuals and narration without being too distracting. Pay attention to the volume levels and ensure that the music isn't drowning out your voice or other important audio elements. A good rule of thumb is to keep the music at a lower volume level than your main audio.

Best Practices for Using Copyright Free Music

Okay, so you've found some awesome copyright free music for YouTube, but how do you use it properly? Here are some best practices to keep in mind to ensure you’re doing things by the book.

1. Always Read the License Agreement

This is super important, guys! Even if music is labeled as "copyright-free" or "royalty-free," it’s essential to read the license agreement. Different licenses have different terms, and you need to make sure you’re complying with them. Some licenses might require you to give credit to the artist, while others might have restrictions on commercial use. Always take the time to understand the license before using a track.

2. Give Credit Where Credit Is Due

If a license requires you to give credit to the artist, make sure you do so. This is not only a legal requirement but also a way to support the creators whose music you’re using. Typically, you’ll include the artist's name and the track title in your video description. Some licenses might also require you to link back to the artist’s website or the platform where you found the music. Giving proper attribution is a sign of respect and helps the artist gain exposure.

3. Keep Records of Your Licenses

It’s a good idea to keep records of the licenses for any music you use in your videos. This can be helpful if you ever need to prove that you have the right to use a particular track. Create a simple spreadsheet or document where you can track the music you’ve used, the source, and the license terms. This will make it easier to manage your music library and ensure you’re always in compliance.

4. Be Aware of Changing License Terms

License terms can change over time, so it’s important to stay informed. If you’ve used a track in the past, double-check the license if you plan to use it again. Some platforms might update their terms, and you want to make sure you’re still in compliance. Staying vigilant will help you avoid any potential copyright issues.

5. Use YouTube’s Copyright Tools

YouTube offers some helpful tools for managing copyright. The YouTube Studio dashboard has a Copyright tab where you can check for any potential copyright issues with your videos. You can also use the Content ID system to protect your own copyrighted material. Familiarizing yourself with these tools can help you stay on top of copyright issues and protect your channel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To wrap things up, let’s talk about some common mistakes to avoid when using copyright free music for YouTube. Steering clear of these pitfalls will help you keep your channel safe and sound.

1. Assuming "Free" Means No Restrictions

As we’ve discussed, just because music is labeled as "free" doesn’t mean there are no strings attached. Always read the license agreement and understand the terms before using a track. This is the golden rule of using copyright free music for YouTube.

2. Ignoring License Requirements

Ignoring license requirements, such as giving credit, can lead to copyright issues. Make sure you’re fulfilling all the obligations outlined in the license. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to copyright.

3. Using Music Without Proper Verification

Don’t just assume that music is copyright-free without verifying its status. Always check the source and the license before using a track. If you’re unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and choose a different song.

4. Downloading Music From Unreliable Sources

Downloading music from shady websites or peer-to-peer networks can be risky. You might end up with tracks that aren’t actually copyright-free or, even worse, files that contain malware. Stick to reputable sources like the YouTube Audio Library, royalty-free music platforms, and Creative Commons sites.

5. Failing to Keep Records

Not keeping records of your licenses can make it difficult to prove your right to use a track if a copyright claim arises. Keep a detailed log of the music you’ve used, the source, and the license terms. This will save you a lot of headaches down the road.

Conclusion

Finding and using copyright free music for YouTube doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right resources and a good understanding of copyright principles, you can create amazing videos with fantastic soundtracks. Remember to always read the license agreements, give credit where it’s due, and stay informed about changing license terms. By following these guidelines, you’ll keep your channel in good standing and create content that your audience will love. Happy creating, guys!