How to Get Copyright Free Background Music for YouTube Videos
Using music in your YouTube videos can enhance the overall experience for viewers, adding emotion and setting the right atmosphere. However, using copyrighted music without permission can lead to copyright strikes and even monetization issues. To avoid these problems, it's crucial to use copyright free background music. Here are some reliable ways to find and use music legally:
1. YouTube Audio Library
The YouTube Audio Library offers a vast collection of royalty-free music and sound effects specifically designed for use in YouTube videos.
Here's how to access it:
- Go to YouTube Studio.
- Select "Audio library" under "Add Audio"
- Browse the library for music that suits your video.
- Filter by mood, genre, instrument, and more.
- Select the music you want to use and add it to your video.
Pros:
- Easy to use: It's integrated directly into YouTube Studio.
- Wide variety: Offers a diverse range of music styles and genres.
- Free to use: No need to pay royalties or licensing fees.
Cons:
- Limited selection: The library may not have everything you're looking for.
- Popular tracks: Some tracks might be overused, potentially reducing the uniqueness of your video.
2. Royalty-Free Music Websites
Several websites specialize in offering royalty-free music, allowing you to use it in your videos without worrying about copyright issues. Some popular options include:
- Free Music Archive: A non-profit organization offering a vast catalog of free and legal music for various uses.
- Incompetech: A website dedicated to royalty-free music for personal and commercial use.
- AudioJungle: A marketplace where you can find a wide range of music, including royalty-free options.
Pros:
- Extensive catalogs: Websites often offer a wider selection than YouTube Audio Library.
- Creative Commons licensing: Most music is available under Creative Commons licenses, which detail how the music can be used.
- Search filters: You can easily find music based on genre, mood, instrument, and other criteria.
Cons:
- Attribution requirements: Some music may require attribution in your video.
- Potential costs: Some websites offer both free and paid options.
3. Music Licensing Websites
For more professional projects or if you need specific music with a unique feel, consider using music licensing websites. These platforms connect creators with music composers and artists, offering a wide range of music options for licensing. Popular options include:
- Musicbed: Known for its high-quality music and curated selection.
- Artlist: Offers a subscription-based model for unlimited music downloads.
- Epidemic Sound: Provides a vast library of music and sound effects for a monthly subscription fee.
Pros:
- High-quality music: Licensing websites often offer premium-quality music.
- Exclusive music: You can find unique and original tracks not available elsewhere.
- Flexible licensing options: Choose from different licensing types to fit your needs.
Cons:
- Subscription fees: Licensing websites typically require a paid subscription.
- Limited free options: Most websites offer a limited number of free tracks.
4. Create Your Own Music
If you have musical skills or access to music software, consider creating your own music. This gives you complete control over the sound and ensures that it's unique to your channel.
Pros:
- Complete originality: You can create music that perfectly matches your video.
- No licensing concerns: You own the rights to your own music.
- Cost-effective: Can be cheaper than licensing pre-made music.
Cons:
- Time-consuming: Creating music takes time and effort.
- Musical expertise: Requires knowledge of music theory and software.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right copyright-free music for your YouTube videos is crucial for avoiding copyright issues and maximizing your content's potential. By exploring the options available, you can find the perfect music to enhance your videos while remaining compliant with YouTube's policies. Remember to always read the licensing terms carefully to ensure you are using music legally and ethically.
