Using copyrighted music in your YouTube videos can be tricky. If you include a song you don’t own or have permission to use, your video could get muted, demonetized, or even taken down. However, there are legal ways to include copyrighted music in your content — without breaking the rules. Here’s how to do it the right way.
1. Understand How YouTube’s Copyright System Works
YouTube uses a system called Content ID to automatically detect copyrighted material in videos. If your video contains music owned by someone else, the copyright holder can choose to:
- Monetize your video (collect ad revenue instead of you)
- Block your video in certain countries or worldwide
- Mute the audio containing the song
To avoid issues, it’s important to understand who owns the music and what rights you have to use it.
2. Get Permission or a License
The safest and most professional way to use copyrighted music is to get a license. There are two main types of licenses you may need:
- Synchronization License – Allows you to pair music with visuals.
- Master License – Grants the right to use a specific recording of a song.
You can contact the copyright holder (usually the artist, label, or publisher) to request permission. Keep in mind that this process can be time-consuming and sometimes expensive, but it ensures full legal protection.
3. Use Royalty-Free or Licensed Music Platforms
If getting direct permission isn’t realistic, you can use royalty-free or licensed music libraries that grant you permission for a one-time fee or subscription. Some trusted platforms include:
- Epidemic Sound
- Artlist
- AudioJungle
- PremiumBeat
- YouTube Audio Library
These services let you use their tracks safely without worrying about copyright strikes, as long as you follow their terms of use.
4. Check YouTube’s Music Policies
YouTube has a Music Policies section that lists many popular songs and how they can be used. Sometimes, you can use a song legally if you agree to let the copyright holder monetize your video.
To find it, visit: https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/6013276
This is a useful tool if you want to include popular songs but are okay with not earning revenue from that specific video.
5. Use Creative Commons Music
Some artists release their music under Creative Commons (CC) licenses, allowing others to use it for free under certain conditions. Always check the specific license type:
- CC BY – You must give credit to the creator.
- CC BY-NC – Non-commercial use only.
- CC BY-SA – You must share your work under the same license.
Websites like Free Music Archive, ccMixter, and Incompetech offer thousands of tracks under Creative Commons.
6. Give Proper Credit
Even if a track is free or royalty-free, always credit the artist properly in your video description. Include details such as the song title, artist name, and a link to their profile or website. Proper attribution helps support creators and ensures transparency.
7. Consider Using Background or Stock Music
If you don’t need a specific song, using background music from stock libraries is an easy and safe option. These tracks are created specifically for content creators and are often inexpensive or even free.
8. Avoid Common Mistakes
- Don’t assume you can use short clips (even a few seconds can be flagged).
- Don’t rely on disclaimers like “I don’t own the rights to this song” — they don’t protect you.
- Don’t use copyrighted music in monetized videos without proper licensing.
Final Thoughts
Using copyrighted music legally on YouTube is all about respecting creators’ rights and following proper licensing procedures. With so many legal options available — from YouTube’s Audio Library to paid music platforms — there’s no need to risk a copyright strike.
By choosing music wisely, you can make your videos sound great while keeping your channel safe and professional.
