Free Non-Copyright Music For YouTube Videos

Are you a content creator searching for the perfect background music for your YouTube videos? Finding the right track that’s free to use and won’t land you in copyright trouble can be a real headache. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of non-copyright music, providing you with resources and tips to enhance your videos without the stress of copyright claims. Let's get started, guys!

Understanding Non-Copyright Music

First off, let's clarify what non-copyright music really means. Often, the term is used interchangeably with royalty-free music or copyright-free music, but there are subtle differences. Generally, it refers to music that you can use without directly infringing on someone else’s copyright. However, it’s crucial to understand the terms and conditions attached to each piece of music.

Non-copyrighted music doesn’t necessarily mean that the music is completely free of any rights. It often means that the copyright holder has given permission for certain types of use, usually under specific licenses. These licenses dictate how you can use the music, whether you need to provide attribution, and if there are any restrictions on commercial use. For instance, a Creative Commons license might allow you to use a track for free as long as you credit the artist. It’s essential to read the fine print to avoid any nasty surprises later on.

The beauty of using non-copyright music is that it opens up a world of creative possibilities without the constant worry of copyright strikes. Imagine creating engaging content with perfect background scores that complement your visuals seamlessly. Whether you’re making vlogs, tutorials, or short films, the right music can elevate the overall viewing experience and keep your audience hooked. Plus, knowing that you’re using music legally gives you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on what you do best: creating awesome content.

When searching for non-copyright music, keep an eye out for platforms that offer clear licensing terms. Websites like YouTube’s Audio Library, Creative Commons, and various royalty-free music providers are excellent starting points. These platforms often categorize music by genre, mood, and usage rights, making it easier for you to find exactly what you need. Remember, always double-check the license details before using any track, even if it’s labeled as “free to use.” A little bit of due diligence can save you a lot of trouble down the road.

Top Resources for Free Music

Finding high-quality, free music for your YouTube videos doesn't have to be a daunting task. There are numerous resources available that offer a wide variety of tracks suitable for different types of content. Here are some of the top platforms where you can discover non-copyright music:

1. YouTube Audio Library: YouTube itself offers a vast library of free music and sound effects that you can use in your videos. This is a great starting point because the music is already cleared for use on YouTube. You can filter tracks by genre, mood, instrument, and attribution requirements. Just head to your YouTube Studio, and you’ll find it under the “Audio Library” tab. This is super convenient, guys, since you're already on YouTube!

2. Creative Commons: Creative Commons is not a music platform itself, but it's a licensing system that many artists use to offer their work for free under certain conditions. You can find music licensed under Creative Commons on platforms like SoundCloud, Jamendo, and Free Music Archive. Just be sure to check the specific license terms for each track, as some require attribution while others might have restrictions on commercial use. It’s a treasure trove of unique and indie music waiting to be discovered.

3. Bensound: Bensound is a popular website offering a wide range of royalty-free music created by Benjamin Tissot. The site features various genres and moods, making it easy to find the perfect track for your video. While some tracks require a license purchase for certain uses, many are available for free as long as you provide attribution to Bensound. The interface is user-friendly, and the music quality is consistently high, making it a favorite among content creators.

4. Epidemic Sound: While Epidemic Sound is a subscription-based service, it offers a huge library of high-quality music and sound effects. If you’re serious about your content and willing to invest in a subscription, Epidemic Sound provides peace of mind knowing that all the music is cleared for commercial use. They also have a vast selection of tracks that cater to different styles and genres. Plus, their search filters are super precise, allowing you to find the perfect music to match your video's vibe.

5. Artlist: Similar to Epidemic Sound, Artlist is a subscription-based platform that offers unlimited access to a vast catalog of music. What sets Artlist apart is its focus on cinematic and high-quality tracks, making it ideal for filmmakers and content creators looking for professional-grade music. With a simple license that covers most uses, Artlist simplifies the process of finding and using music legally. It's a bit of an investment, but the quality and ease of use make it worthwhile for many.

6. Pond5: Pond5 offers a mix of royalty-free music, stock footage, and other creative assets. Their music library includes a wide variety of tracks, from upbeat pop to dramatic orchestral scores. You can purchase individual tracks or subscribe for unlimited access. Pond5 is a great option if you need a diverse range of creative assets for your projects.

7. Incompetech: Incompetech, created by Kevin MacLeod, offers a vast collection of free music under the Creative Commons license. MacLeod's music is widely used in various projects, from YouTube videos to indie films. The site is easy to navigate, and the music is well-categorized, making it simple to find what you need. Just remember to give credit to Kevin MacLeod when using his music.

8. Free Music Archive: The Free Music Archive (FMA) is a project of WFMU, a freeform radio station. It offers a wide range of music under Creative Commons licenses. The FMA is a great resource for discovering indie and experimental music that you won’t find anywhere else. It's a fantastic place to support independent artists and find unique tracks for your videos.

How to Use Music Legally

Navigating the world of music licensing can be tricky, but understanding the basics will help you avoid copyright issues and keep your YouTube channel in good standing. Always remember, guys, that using someone else's music without permission can lead to copyright strikes, video takedowns, and even legal action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using music legally in your YouTube videos:

1. Understand the License: Before using any piece of music, carefully read the license agreement. Pay attention to what the license allows and what it prohibits. For example, some licenses may allow non-commercial use but require you to purchase a license for commercial purposes. Others may require you to give credit to the artist in your video description.

2. Attribute the Artist: If the license requires attribution, make sure to give proper credit to the artist in your video description. Include the artist's name, the track title, and a link to their website or the license page. Proper attribution not only fulfills the license requirements but also supports the artist and helps others discover their music.

3. Use Royalty-Free Music: Royalty-free music means that you pay a one-time fee for the license to use the music, and you don’t have to pay ongoing royalties. However, royalty-free doesn’t necessarily mean free. You still need to obtain a license from a royalty-free music provider like Epidemic Sound or Artlist. Once you have the license, you can use the music in your videos without worrying about future royalty payments.

4. Obtain Permission: If you want to use a copyrighted song that is not royalty-free or licensed under Creative Commons, you need to obtain permission from the copyright holder. This usually involves contacting the music publisher or the record label and negotiating a licensing agreement. Obtaining permission can be a complex and expensive process, but it’s the only way to legally use copyrighted music without risking legal trouble.

5. Use YouTube’s Audio Library: YouTube’s Audio Library is a safe bet because all the music in the library is pre-cleared for use on YouTube. You can use these tracks in your videos without worrying about copyright claims. Just make sure to follow the attribution requirements, if any, specified for each track.

6. Monitor Copyright Claims: Even if you’ve taken all the necessary precautions, you may still receive a copyright claim on your video. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve done something wrong. Sometimes, copyright claims are issued automatically by YouTube’s content ID system. If you believe the claim is invalid, you can dispute it by providing proof that you have the right to use the music.

7. Keep Records: Keep records of all the licenses and permissions you’ve obtained for the music you use in your videos. This documentation can be helpful if you ever need to dispute a copyright claim or prove that you have the right to use the music.

Tips for Choosing the Right Music

Selecting the right background music can significantly enhance the quality and impact of your YouTube videos. The music should complement your visuals, set the right mood, and engage your audience. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect music for your videos:

1. Consider the Mood: Think about the overall mood and tone of your video. Is it upbeat and energetic, or is it more relaxed and contemplative? Choose music that matches the mood of your video. For example, upbeat pop music might be suitable for a travel vlog, while calm instrumental music might be better for a meditation video.

2. Match the Genre: Select music that aligns with the genre of your video. If you’re creating a gaming video, electronic or rock music might be a good fit. If you’re making a cooking tutorial, light and cheerful music could be more appropriate. Matching the genre of the music to the genre of your video can create a cohesive and engaging viewing experience.

3. Pay Attention to Tempo: The tempo of the music should complement the pace of your video. Fast-paced music can create excitement and energy, while slow-paced music can create a sense of calm and relaxation. Consider the rhythm and flow of your video and choose music that matches the tempo.

4. Avoid Distracting Music: The music should enhance your video, not distract from it. Avoid using music that is too loud, too busy, or too attention-grabbing. The music should be subtle enough to blend into the background and support your visuals without overpowering them.

5. Test Different Tracks: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tracks until you find the perfect fit. Try out several options and see how they sound with your video. Get feedback from friends or colleagues to get a fresh perspective. The more options you explore, the better chance you have of finding the ideal music for your video.

6. Use Music to Create Transitions: Music can be used to create seamless transitions between different segments of your video. Choose music that builds in intensity or changes in mood to signal a shift in topic or scene. This can help to keep your audience engaged and make your video more dynamic.

7. Check the Sound Quality: Make sure the music you choose is of high quality. Avoid using tracks that are poorly recorded, distorted, or have other audio issues. High-quality music will sound better to your audience and enhance the overall viewing experience.

Conclusion

Finding and using non-copyright music for your YouTube videos doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right resources and a bit of understanding about music licensing, you can enhance your videos with high-quality music without the risk of copyright issues. Always remember to read the license agreements carefully, give proper attribution when required, and explore the various platforms that offer free and royalty-free music. By following these tips, you can create engaging and professional-sounding videos that your audience will love. Happy creating, guys!