Free YouTube Music: Non-Copyright Background Tracks

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Free YouTube Music: Non-Copyright Background Tracks

Hey guys! Are you looking for the perfect background music for your YouTube videos without worrying about copyright strikes? You've come to the right place! Finding the right music can be a game-changer for your content, adding that extra layer of polish and emotional depth that keeps viewers hooked. However, navigating the world of music licensing can be a real headache. That's why understanding non-copyright background music is super important for every YouTuber. In this article, we'll dive deep into how to find and use royalty-free music safely, so you can focus on creating awesome content without the legal drama. So, let's get started and make your videos sound as amazing as they look!

Understanding Copyright and Music

Before we jump into finding great music, let's quickly break down copyright and how it affects your YouTube videos. Copyright is a legal protection that gives creators exclusive rights to their work, including music. This means that if you use a song without permission, the copyright holder can issue a strike against your video, which could lead to your video being taken down or you losing monetization. No fun, right?

What is Copyright?

Copyright law protects original musical works, including the composition (the melody and lyrics) and the sound recording (the actual recording of the song). When someone creates a song, they automatically own the copyright to it. This gives them the right to control how the music is used, copied, distributed, and performed. For example, major artists like Taylor Swift and Drake own copyrights to their song.

Why Copyright Matters for YouTubers

As YouTubers, we need to be super careful about using copyrighted music in our videos. YouTube has a sophisticated system called Content ID that automatically scans videos for copyrighted material. If you use a song without permission, you could face several consequences:

  • Copyright Strike: This is the most serious penalty. Three copyright strikes, and your channel is terminated.
  • Video Removal: YouTube might take down your video, meaning all your hard work goes poof!
  • Monetization Claim: The copyright holder can claim the revenue from your video, so you're essentially working for them.

To avoid these issues, it's essential to use music that you have the rights to use. That's where non-copyrighted and royalty-free music comes in!

What is Non-Copyright Background Music?

So, what exactly is non-copyright background music? It's music that you can use in your videos without infringing on someone else's copyright. This usually falls into a few categories:

  • Public Domain Music: These are works whose copyright has expired. Generally, anything created before 1928 is in the public domain. Think classical masterpieces by composers like Beethoven or Mozart.
  • Creative Commons Licenses: These licenses allow creators to grant certain permissions for using their work. There are different types of Creative Commons licenses, each with its own set of rules. Some might require attribution (giving credit to the artist), while others allow commercial use.
  • Royalty-Free Music: This is music that you pay for once and can use multiple times without paying additional royalties. Many websites offer royalty-free music libraries, where you can find tracks for a one-time fee or through a subscription.

Public Domain Music: A Treasure Trove

Public domain music can be a goldmine, especially if you're looking for classical or traditional tunes. Since the copyright has expired, you're free to use these tracks without any worries. Websites like the IMSLP (International Music Score Library Project) offer a vast collection of public domain scores and recordings. However, keep in mind that while the original composition might be in the public domain, a specific recording of it might still be under copyright. Always double-check!

Creative Commons: Understanding the Licenses

Creative Commons (CC) licenses are a fantastic way for artists to share their work while retaining some control over how it's used. There are several types of CC licenses, each with different conditions:

  • CC BY (Attribution): You can use the work as long as you give credit to the creator.
  • CC BY-SA (Attribution-ShareAlike): You must give credit and license your derivative works under the same terms.
  • CC BY-ND (Attribution-NoDerivatives): You can use the work, but you can't modify it.
  • CC BY-NC (Attribution-NonCommercial): You can use the work, but not for commercial purposes.

When using Creative Commons music, always read the license carefully and follow the terms. Giving proper attribution is crucial to avoid copyright issues.

Finding Non-Copyright Background Music for YouTube

Now that you understand the basics of copyright and different types of licenses, let's get to the fun part: finding awesome non-copyright background music for your YouTube videos! There are tons of resources available online, each with its own pros and cons. Here are some of the best places to find royalty-free and Creative Commons music:

YouTube Audio Library

Let's start with the obvious one. YouTube itself offers a free audio library with a wide variety of tracks and sound effects. This is a fantastic resource for beginners because you can be sure that the music is safe to use on YouTube. The library includes both royalty-free tracks and music with Creative Commons licenses. Just head to YouTube Studio, click on "Audio Library," and start browsing. Remember to check the license details for each track to see if you need to give attribution.

Epidemic Sound

Epidemic Sound is a popular subscription-based service that offers a vast library of high-quality music and sound effects. For a monthly fee, you get access to thousands of tracks that you can use in your videos without worrying about copyright claims. Epidemic Sound is a great option if you need a consistent supply of professional-sounding music and don't want to deal with the hassle of clearing individual licenses.

Artlist

Artlist is another subscription-based service similar to Epidemic Sound. It offers a curated library of music from independent artists. Artlist's music is known for its high quality and cinematic feel, making it a great choice for filmmakers and YouTubers who want to add a professional touch to their videos. With a subscription, you get unlimited access to their entire catalog, and the licenses cover both personal and commercial use.

PremiumBeat

PremiumBeat, owned by Shutterstock, offers a selection of exclusive, high-quality tracks that you can purchase individually. While it's not a subscription service, PremiumBeat's music is top-notch, and their licenses are straightforward. You pay a one-time fee for each track, and you can use it in your videos forever. This can be a good option if you only need a few specific tracks and don't want to commit to a monthly subscription.

Other Great Resources

Besides the big players, there are many other websites and platforms where you can find non-copyright background music:

  • Bensound: Offers a selection of free and premium tracks, with clear licensing terms.
  • Free Music Archive: A vast library of Creative Commons music, curated by WFMU.
  • Incompetech: Created by composer Kevin MacLeod, offering a wide range of royalty-free tracks.
  • Audio Jungle: Part of Envato Market, offering a marketplace of music and sound effects.

Tips for Using Non-Copyright Music on YouTube

Okay, so you've found some awesome non-copyright background music – great! But before you start slapping it into your videos, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Always Read the License: I can't stress this enough! Make sure you understand the terms of the license before using any music. Pay attention to whether you need to give attribution, and if so, how to properly credit the artist.
  • Keep Records: Keep a record of where you got the music and the license terms. This can be helpful if you ever need to dispute a copyright claim.
  • Use YouTube's Content ID System: Before publishing your video, upload it as unlisted and let YouTube's Content ID system scan it. This can help you identify any potential copyright issues before your video goes live.
  • Give Credit in Your Video Description: If the license requires attribution, include the artist's name and a link to their website or the license in your video description. This is not only a legal requirement but also a nice way to support the artists.
  • Edit the Music to Fit Your Video: Don't be afraid to edit the music to fit the mood and pacing of your video. You can use audio editing software to trim the track, adjust the volume, and add effects.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect non-copyright background music for your YouTube videos doesn't have to be a daunting task. By understanding copyright law and exploring the various resources available, you can create videos with amazing soundtracks without worrying about copyright strikes. Remember to always read the license terms, give proper attribution, and keep records of your music sources. With a little bit of research and planning, you can elevate your videos and keep your channel safe. Happy creating!