How to Use Music in A Video Legally?

Just like other social media platforms, YouTube offers a vast potential audience, especially if your content is unique and engaging. However, navigating the realm of YouTube could be challenging for new content creators when it comes to publishing their videos.

The risk of dreaded copyright strikes is a major issue as YouTube rules are at times rather difficult to understand. While each copyright strike expires after 90 days, receiving two more strikes – 3 in total – within that period has severe consequences. YouTube may terminate your channel, delete videos, and block you from creating another channel for copyright violations. Hence, the pressing question lingers: How can you legally use music in a video?

Understanding Copyright and Licensing

While catchy tunes may boost views, avoiding copyright strikes is a better long-term investment for your channel. Creators are granted exclusive rights to their original works, such as music and other content, through copyright protection. Consequently, using copyrighted material on your YouTube channel requires permission to avoid copyright strikes.

Licensing, on the other hand, is a type of permission given by the copyright holder to others to use their material under certain conditions. Various types of licenses exist, from restrictive ones allowing limited use to more lenient ones like Creative Commons, permitting broader usage. Content creators must first understand copyright and licensing to include copyrighted material in their videos.

Using Royalty-Free Music and Creative Commons Licenses

One of the easiest ways to add music to your content without having to worry about copyright issues is to use royalty-free music and Creative Commons licenses. Unlike copyrighted music with occurring usage fees, royalty-free materials can be used multiple times without extra charges. However, it is important to keep in mind that royalty-free music may require an initial license purchase.

Creators are granted exclusive rights to their original works, such as music and other content, through copyright protection. Consequently, using copyrighted material on your YouTube channel requires permission to avoid copyright strikes. These licenses come in various types, each with its specific conditions. Crucial elements of these licenses involve “Attribution” (BY), necessitating the provision of proper credit to the original creator, and “ShareAlike” (SA), which obliges any modified works to be shared with the same license terms.

Utilizing Music Libraries and Stock Music Websites

Another way to incorporate music into your content is to utilize music from online libraries and stock music websites. These platforms offer a diverse selection of music, both royalty-free and licensed, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your content. Thus, you can easily enhance your videos with music that complements your overall vision, all while abiding by the licensing terms.

While music libraries usually have an extensive array of music under different categories, stock music websites often offer subscription plans. As these platforms contain both royalty-free and licensed material, it is important to check the copyrights before including them in your projects.

YouTube Audio Library and Other Free Resources

Although content creators refer to music libraries for their content, YouTube also has an impressive audio library. Aside from having a large collection of music tracks, YouTube Audio Library (YAL) is also completely free of charge. These tracks can also be sorted according to moods and genres, making YAL even more convenient to use.

Additionally, Bensound, Jamendo, SoundCloud, and Free Music Archive are fantastic free options to enhance your videos. They provide royalty-free tracks and offer the option to purchase extended licenses for commercial purposes.

Understanding Fair Use and Its Limitations

Fair use is a legal principle permitting specific uses of copyrighted material without the need for permission. Examples encompass, but are not confined to, parodies, commentaries, educational purposes, and news reporting. However, there are certain limitations to fair use depending on the conditions such as how much original content is used in the video. Non-commercial use of content containing factual information is less likely to result in a copyright strike, whereas using creative works is more susceptible to such strikes.

Avoiding Copyright Strikes and Content ID Claims

It is important to take proactive steps to avoid copyright strikes and content ID claims on YouTube. Creating original content, understanding fair use, and utilizing royalty-free or licensed music by paying the necessary fees are essential. While copyright laws are readily available online, it is also crucial to stay updated on recent changes and updates. Therefore, regularly reviewing your videos to remove any potential copyrighted material is recommended.

Content creators should also respond promptly to Content ID claims and dispute any false claims with evidence. Adhering to these guidelines helps maintain a successful and compliant presence on YouTube.

Properly Crediting Music in Your Video

Identifying the music source is the first step in properly crediting music in your videos. Then, in the video description, include the artist and song title. YouTube will also guide you through the process of adding credits for music. If you are using Creative Commons music, it is important to specify the type of CC license, then you can add on-screen credits in your video. Crediting music shows appreciation for creators, maintains a positive relationship with the creative community, and adheres to copyright laws.

Consulting Legal Professionals for Complex Cases

Attempting to resolve complicated copyright cases can be very time-consuming, and the outcome may not align with your expectations. Hence, it is advisable to consult with seasoned lawyers with expertise in this specific field. They can analyze the case, explain the law clearly, and guide you on the best steps to take next. Attorneys can additionally act as your legal representatives in court if required and work towards securing the most favorable terms for you through negotiations. Legal professionals enhance your chances of a positive outcome and safeguard your rights during the complex legal process.

Using music in videos legally requires understanding copyright and licensing and providing credits properly. However, these are simple to learn and hard to forget once you start actively following the necessary steps in your videos. Additionally, staying updated on copyright laws, and seeking advice from legal professionals for complex cases can be very beneficial. By following these guidelines and taking the necessary precautions, content creators can navigate YouTube successfully while respecting copyright laws and fostering positive relationships within the creative community!