Music can make your YouTube videos more fun to watch. But using the wrong music can cause big problems. This is because of something called YouTube copyright music.
Copyright means someone owns the music. When you hear a song, the person who made it owns it. They decide who can use their music.
Why is this important for you? Using music without permission can get you in trouble. YouTube might remove your video or even stop your channel from working. Using music without permission can lead to copyright strikes, demonetization, or worse, legal troubles. This is bad for your business.
To keep your videos safe and your business growing, you need to understand copyright.
Let’s learn how to use music without getting into trouble.
Understanding YouTube Copyright Basics
Before diving into what you should or shouldn’t do, it’s essential to understand how copyrighted music works on YouTube. YouTube uses an automated system called Content ID to detect copyrighted content in videos. This system scans uploads and checks for any music that might be protected by copyright laws.
So, what happens if copyrighted music is detected? You might receive a claim, which could affect your video’s visibility, monetization, or even lead to a takedown. To avoid these issues, you need to know how to check if a song has copyright before using it.
There are different types of music available on YouTube, each with its own set of rules:
- Creative Commons Licensed Music: Some creators allow their music to be used freely, as long as you follow their licensing terms.
- Licensed Music: This is music you must pay for to use legally.
- Ad-Supported Music: These tracks might be free to use, but they come with ads or other restrictions.
Knowing the difference between these categories can help you make informed decisions about the music you choose.
DID YOU KNOW?
During the first half of 2023, YouTube’s Content ID system automatically identified nearly 976.2 million copyright infringement claims. Of these, only 0.4 percent were disputed, meaning the vast majority of claims—around 99 percent—went unchallenged. This highlights how effective and far-reaching YouTube’s Content ID tool is in flagging potential copyright violations without user intervention.
[Source: Statista]
Different Types of Music Licenses
There are different kinds of permission you need to use music. These are called licenses:
- Sync License: This lets you use a song in a video. For example, if you want to use a popular song in your ad, you need a sync license.
- Master License: This lets you use a specific recording of a song. If you like a certain singer’s version, you need a master license for that recording.
- Mechanical License: This lets you make a copy of a song. You need this if you want to create a cover of a song.
Getting these licenses can be tricky and expensive. That’s why it’s often easier to use music that doesn’t need a license.
The Do’s for Using Music on YouTube
Using music on YouTube without worrying about copyright starts with making smart choices. Here are the key do’s:
1. Use Works in the Public Domain
Public domain music is free to use because it’s not protected by copyright. You can find this music through online archives or libraries. Remember to verify that the music is truly public domain before using it.
2. Utilize Creative Commons Licensed Music
Creative Commons licenses allow you to use music freely, as long as you follow the specified conditions. Some require you to credit the creator, while others may restrict commercial use. Always read the license terms carefully.
3. Obtain Direct Authorization or Licenses
If you want to use popular or commercial music, obtaining a license is crucial. This could involve paying a fee to the copyright holder or using a music licensing service. This ensures that you’re legally covered and can avoid any copyright claims.
4. Use YouTube’s Audio Library
YouTube offers a large collection of free copyright music through its Audio Library. This music is safe to use and won’t trigger Content ID claims. However, some tracks may require attribution, so check the details before adding them to your videos.
You can also access the Audio Library directly at youtube.com/audiolibrary.
5. Understand the Difference Between Personal and Commercial Use
Some music might be free for personal use but require a license for commercial purposes. As a business owner or social media manager, you’re likely creating content for commercial reasons, so make sure you’re using the correct type of license.
Following these practices will help keep your content safe and allow you to focus on creating great videos without the fear of copyright issues.
The Don’ts for Using Music on YouTube
Avoiding common mistakes is just as important as following best practices. Here are the key don’ts:
1. Don’t Assume Fair Use Applies to All Music
Many creators mistakenly believe that using short clips or altering the pitch of a song qualifies as fair use. This isn’t always the case. Fair use is complex and varies by situation, so don’t rely on it to protect you from copyright claims.
2. Don’t Rely on Short Clips to Avoid Detection
Content ID can detect even brief or modified clips of copyrighted music. Just because you’re using a short snippet doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Always consider whether you have the proper rights.
3. Don’t Ignore Copyright Claims
If you receive a copyright claim, don’t brush it off. Ignoring claims can lead to more severe consequences, like a strike on your channel. Instead, review the claim and take appropriate action, whether it’s disputing the claim if you believe it’s incorrect or removing the music.
4. Don’t Use Music Without Proper Attribution
Even if you’re using music that’s labeled as free, such as Creative Commons tracks, failing to give proper credit can still result in issues. Always follow the attribution requirements set by the music’s creator to stay compliant.
5. Don’t Download Music from Unverified Sources
Downloading music from unofficial or sketchy websites can be risky. The track might be mislabeled as no copyright music, but in reality, it’s protected. Always use reliable sources like YouTube’s Audio Library or licensed music platforms.
Avoiding these pitfalls will help you steer clear of copyright issues and keep your content on YouTube safe and monetized.
Finding Safe Music Sources
Finding the right music for your YouTube videos without worrying about copyright claims is easier when you know where to look. Here are some reliable sources:
1. YouTube Audio Library
This is a go-to for many creators. YouTube’s Audio Library offers a wide range of free copyright music that you can use without any risk. Some tracks may require attribution, so be sure to check the details.
2. Royalty-Free Music Platforms
Websites like Epidemic Sound, Artlist and Bensound offer free royalty music for YouTube, though some require a subscription. Always read the licensing terms to ensure you’re using the music correctly.
3. Creative Commons Music
Platforms like ccMixter and Free Music Archive offer no copyright music under Creative Commons licenses. You can use these tracks, but make sure to follow the specific license requirements, such as giving proper credit.
4. Public Domain Resources
Music in the public domain is free to use without restrictions. Websites like Musopen and the IMSLP provide access to a variety of public domain tracks.
5. Subscription-Based Services
For a broader selection and higher quality, consider services like AudioJungle or Pond5, which offer licensed music for a fee. These services ensure that you’re covered legally, giving you peace of mind.
Using these sources will help you find music that enhances your videos without risking a copyright strike.
Legal Considerations and Best Practices
Understanding legal considerations is key to protecting your YouTube channel. Here are some best practices:
1. Always Check for Copyright
Before using any music, make sure to check if a song has copyright. Use tools like a copyright music checker or review the terms provided by the source.
2. Understand Licensing Terms
If you’re using music from royalty-free platforms or Creative Commons, read the licensing terms carefully. Ensure you’re allowed to use the music for commercial purposes if that applies to your content.
3. Use Disclaimers
Consider adding a disclaimer to your video description, especially when using licensed music. While it doesn’t guarantee protection, it shows that you’ve made an effort to comply with copyright laws.
4. Keep Records of Licenses
Whenever you purchase or obtain a license for music, keep a record of it. This can help if you ever need to dispute a claim.
5. Avoid Unverified Music Sources
Stick to trusted sources for music. Avoid downloading music from unofficial sites, as the music may be incorrectly labeled as free copyright music for YouTube.
Following these legal considerations will help keep your content safe and legally compliant.
Impact on Monetization
Copyright issues can significantly affect your ability to monetize your YouTube videos. Here’s how:
1. Copyright Claims and Revenue
When a copyrighted music claim is made on your video, the revenue may be redirected to the copyright holder, leaving you with nothing. This can happen even if you weren’t aware the music was copyrighted.
2. Loss of Monetization Eligibility
Repeated copyright strikes can lead to losing your channel’s monetization privileges altogether. YouTube has strict policies, and multiple infractions can result in being removed from the YouTube Partner Program.
3. Limited Visibility
Videos with copyright issues might face restricted visibility, making it harder for your content to reach a broader audience. Copyright claims can also affect your video’s ranking and recommendations.
4. Protecting Your Revenue
To safeguard your monetization, always use free royalty music for YouTube or obtain the necessary licenses. This ensures you retain full control over your content’s earnings. If you’re unsure, use YouTube’s copyright music checker before publishing.
Being proactive about avoiding copyright issues is key to maintaining and growing your revenue stream on YouTube.
Conclusion
Using the right music can make your videos amazing. But using the wrong music can be a big problem. It’s important to understand copyright and how it works.
By following the tips in this guide, you can use music safely and legally. Remember, always check the rules and give credit when needed.
With a little care, you can create great videos with music that won’t cause any trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but you need to have permission from the copyright holder or a proper license to use the music. Otherwise, you risk receiving a copyright claim, which can affect your video’s monetization or visibility.
To avoid copyright issues, use music from sources like YouTube’s Audio Library, public domain tracks, or obtain a license for the music you want to use. You can also search for free copyright music or free royalty music for YouTube.
Not all music on YouTube is copyright-free. Some tracks are protected under copyright laws, so it’s crucial to verify the music’s licensing terms. The YouTube Audio Library is a safe place to find free music for videos on YouTube.
Using short clips, even 20 seconds, does not automatically make it fair use. YouTube’s Content ID system can detect and flag even brief segments of copyrighted music, leading to claims or strikes.
You can use a copyright music checker tool, like those provided by some music licensing platforms, or research the song’s rights on trusted music databases. If in doubt, it’s safer to assume that a song is copyrighted.
A copyright strike can lead to restrictions on your channel, such as the inability to monetize videos or a temporary suspension of uploads. Accumulating three strikes can result in your channel being permanently removed.
Yes, using free copyright music for YouTube or royalty-free tracks allows you to monetize your videos without worrying about revenue being redirected due to copyright claims.
Fair use is a legal doctrine that allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission under specific conditions, such as commentary or parody. However, fair use is complex and may not always protect you when using music on YouTube.
It depends on the license terms. Some royalty-free music may require attribution, while others do not. Always check the licensing terms before using the music in your videos.
You can find no copyright music on platforms like YouTube’s Audio Library, Free Music Archive, and sites offering Creative Commons-licensed music. Be sure to follow any required attribution guidelines.
Saurabh Chaturvedi is a content writer at RecurPost. Specializing in social media management and marketing, Saurabh is dedicated to crafting engaging and informative articles. His passion for clear, exciting content keeps readers eager for more.