how to put music on youtube videos without copyright issues

how to put music on youtube videos without copyright issues

how can we ensure that the background music we use in our YouTube videos not only enhances the viewing experience but also adheres to YouTube’s strict copyright policies?

YouTube’s copyright policy is one of the most stringent and detailed in the industry. To avoid any legal issues, it’s crucial to understand what constitutes fair use or public domain music. Fair use refers to the limited use of copyrighted material for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research. Public domain music, on the other hand, is free from copyright restrictions and can be used freely.

Steps to Use Music Legally on YouTube

1. Identify Fair Use

The first step is to determine whether your use of the music qualifies as fair use. This involves considering four factors outlined in the U.S. Copyright Act:

  • Purpose and Character of the Use: Is the use transformative (i.e., does it add new expression, meaning, or message)?
  • Nature of the Copyrighted Work: Is the work factual or creative?
  • Amount and Substantiality of the Portion Used: Is the amount used substantial compared to the whole work?
  • Effect of the Use on the Potential Market: Will the use harm the potential market for the original work?

If you can prove that your use falls under fair use, you may legally use the music without permission.

2. Seek Permission

Even if your use meets the criteria for fair use, YouTube requires explicit permission for commercial use of music. To obtain this permission, you need to contact the rights holder directly. This might involve contacting the record label, publisher, or performing rights organization (PRO) like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. They will grant you a license for a fee, typically based on the number of plays your video receives.

3. Utilize Public Domain and Creative Commons Music

There are many resources available for public domain and Creative Commons licensed music. Websites like YouTube Audio Library, Free Music Archive, and Soundstripe offer a wide range of royalty-free tracks. These platforms often categorize their music by genre, mood, and length, making it easier to find suitable tracks.

4. Consider Music Licensing Platforms

Music licensing platforms like Epidemic Sound, Pond5, and AudioJungle provide access to a vast library of music that can be easily integrated into your YouTube videos. These platforms also offer automatic royalty tracking and payment services, simplifying the process of managing your music rights.

5. Monitor Your Videos Regularly

Once you have added music to your videos, regularly monitor them to ensure compliance with copyright laws. YouTube provides tools like the Content ID system that can detect and handle copyright claims automatically. However, manual oversight is still necessary to address any disputes or issues that arise.

6. Educate Yourself and Others

Educating yourself and your audience about copyright issues is crucial. Encourage viewers to report copyrighted content they encounter and inform them about the importance of respecting intellectual property rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use any music I find online? A: Not necessarily. You should always check the terms of use and consider whether your intended use qualifies as fair use or if you need to seek permission from the rights holder.

Q: How do I know if my use is fair use? A: You can refer to the four-factor test provided by the U.S. Copyright Act. It’s advisable to consult with a legal expert if you’re unsure.

Q: What happens if I get a copyright strike? A: If you receive a copyright strike, YouTube will temporarily disable your account. You must follow the steps provided by YouTube to appeal the strike and rectify the issue.

Q: Are there any free options for music on YouTube? A: Yes, there are several free sources of royalty-free music available, including YouTube Audio Library, Free Music Archive, and Soundstripe.

Q: How do I track royalties for my music on YouTube? A: Most music licensing platforms provide tools for tracking royalties, ensuring that you receive proper compensation for your music usage.