If you’re a content creator, you know that finding the right background music can make or break your video. However, using copyrighted music can lead to serious issues like demonetization or your video being removed from YouTube. That’s why it’s crucial to find non-copyrighted music that you can use freely. Luckily, there are some great platforms out there offering high-quality, royalty-free music that will keep you in the clear while enhancing your videos.
Here’s a list of the 5 best places to find non-copyright background music for your YouTube channel.
YouTube Audio Library
The YouTube Audio Library is a fantastic resource for YouTubers. Since it’s a tool provided by YouTube itself, it ensures you’ll have no issues using these tracks in your videos. The library offers a wide selection of royalty-free music and sound effects, spanning different genres and moods. Whether you’re looking for a calm, relaxing tune or an upbeat track, you’ll find something to match your content’s vibe.
Key Features:
- Free to use: As long as you’re creating content for YouTube, all the music is free.
- Search by mood, genre, or instrument: You can easily find tracks based on the feel or theme you want.
- Sound effects available: In addition to music, you’ll find a wide range of sound effects to enhance your video production.
Be sure to read the terms of each track as some might require attribution, but the overall process is easy and hassle-free.
Epidemic Sound
If you want top-quality music without worrying about copyright strikes, Epidemic Sound is a go-to platform. This service offers a massive library of high-quality tracks produced by professional artists. Epidemic Sound licenses its music in a way that completely removes the risk of copyright issues, which is why it’s popular among big YouTubers and other content creators.
Key Features:
- Subscription-based service: Epidemic Sound isn’t free, but its affordable subscription gives you unlimited access to its entire music library.
- Extensive variety: Their library covers just about every genre and mood, with music tailored to fit various types of content from travel vlogs to gaming videos.
- No copyright claims: Once you subscribe, all music can be safely used without fear of takedown notices.
Epidemic Sound’s user-friendly search filters and high-quality audio make it one of the most reliable platforms for professional YouTubers.
Free Music Archive (FMA)
For creators on a budget who still want a wide range of unique tracks, the Free Music Archive (FMA) is a solid choice. FMA is a large collection of free music in various genres, curated by WFMU, a renowned freeform radio station. You can download and use the music for free in your YouTube videos, but be sure to check the licensing terms for each track, as some may require attribution.
Key Features:
- Completely free: No subscription fees or hidden costs. All music is available for free download.
- Diverse music library: Whether you need background music for a tech review or a cinematic vlog, FMA offers a range of sounds.
- Community-driven curation: Many independent artists contribute their work, so you’re likely to find music that isn’t on other mainstream platforms.
The site is easy to navigate, and their detailed licensing information makes it simple to find tracks that can be used without any copyright concerns.
Artlist.io
Artlist is another platform that offers high-quality, royalty-free music, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. Artlist’s catalog is regularly updated with fresh tracks, and their subscription model gives you unlimited downloads. You can use the music not just on YouTube but across all platforms, and the best part is that the license remains valid even after your subscription ends.
Key Features:
- Unlimited downloads: You pay a yearly fee and can download as much music as you want during that time.
- High production value: Many of the tracks are produced by professional musicians and composers.
- Lifetime license: Once you download a song, you can continue using it forever, even if you cancel your subscription.
Artlist is particularly popular among filmmakers and vloggers who want cinematic music that elevates their storytelling.
Bensound
Bensound is a fantastic resource for free and affordable music. It offers a great collection of royalty-free tracks in genres like acoustic, jazz, electronic, and cinematic. The platform allows you to download music for free as long as you give proper credit to the artist. If you prefer not to attribute, you can purchase a license for unrestricted use.
Key Features:
- Free music with attribution: Download tracks for free by providing credit to the artist.
- Affordable license options: Pay a one-time fee for music that can be used without attribution.
- Variety of genres: From soft acoustic tunes to powerful cinematic scores, Bensound’s collection is diverse.
Bensound is perfect for creators who need budget-friendly music without sacrificing quality.
FAQs
- What is non-copyright background music?
Non-copyright background music refers to music that creators can legally use without infringing on copyright laws. It’s often either royalty-free or licensed for specific uses like on platforms such as YouTube. Using non-copyrighted music protects creators from legal issues like copyright strikes or demonetization.
- Can I use any song in my YouTube video if I credit the artist?
No, simply crediting the artist doesn’t allow you to use copyrighted music. You need explicit permission or a proper license to use a song in your video. Some platforms offer music for free with attribution, but you need to check the licensing terms carefully.
- What happens if I use copyrighted music on YouTube?
If you use copyrighted music without permission, you might face several consequences, including video takedowns, demonetization, or even legal action. YouTube’s Content ID system detects copyrighted music and can automatically mute or block your video, or allow the music’s copyright holder to place ads on your video.
- Are there free non-copyright music options available?
Yes, platforms like the YouTube Audio Library, Free Music Archive, and Bensound offer free non-copyright music options. Just ensure you check the terms of use, as some free tracks might require attribution.
- Is it worth paying for a music subscription service like Epidemic Sound?
If you’re serious about creating professional content and want to avoid any copyright headaches, paying for a subscription to a service like Epidemic Sound or Artlist can be worth it. These platforms provide high-quality music, and their licenses give you peace of mind knowing you’re free from copyright claims.
In conclusion, there are several excellent options for finding non-copyright background music for YouTube. Whether you’re looking for free music or are willing to invest in a subscription, platforms like the YouTube Audio Library, Epidemic Sound, and Artlist.io offer a wide variety of tracks to match any type of content. Just make sure to read the licensing terms carefully to avoid any unexpected issues, and you’ll be able to create content freely and safely.