In this article, we’ll explore what no copyright music is, how you can use it legally, and where you can find it.
What is No Copyright Music?
No copyright music refers to music that is not protected by copyright law or music for which the copyright has expired. This music is free to use without fear of infringement claims, provided you follow the terms set by the creator or platform. It’s important to understand that “no copyright” doesn’t mean the music is free from all legal restrictions. Instead, it refers to music that either doesn’t have copyright protection or has been made available under very permissive licensing terms.
There are several types of no copyright music:
Public Domain Music: Music whose copyright has expired, allowing anyone to use it freely without asking for permission or giving credit. This music is in the public domain because it is no longer under copyright protection.
Creative Commons Music: Music released under a Creative Commons (CC) license. While some Creative Commons licenses allow for free use, others may require attribution or restrict commercial use.
Royalty-Free Music: While not necessarily “no copyright,” royalty-free music means that the creator allows you to use the music in exchange for a one-time fee or under certain conditions, without additional royalties owed.
Music with No Copyright Claims: Some artists explicitly release their music under conditions that allow creators to use their tracks freely, often for specific uses like in videos or streaming. This is often the case with independent musicians on platforms like YouTube, SoundCloud, or Bandcamp.
The Importance of Using No Copyright Music
Using music that is protected by copyright without permission can result in serious legal consequences, including content takedowns, fines, and even lawsuits. For example, YouTube’s Content ID system automatically detects and blocks videos that use copyrighted music without the proper license, potentially affecting the video’s visibility or monetization.
Using no copyright music ensures that you can avoid these issues and create content freely. However, it’s still essential to understand the licensing terms and conditions tied to the music.
How to Use No Copyright Music Legally
Even though no copyright music is easier to use than copyrighted tracks, it’s still important to follow the correct steps to avoid legal issues. Here’s a guide on how to use no copyright music legally:
1. Understand the Licensing Terms
Not all no copyright music is entirely free for any use. For instance, some music may require you to provide credit to the creator, while others might have restrictions on commercial use or the number of platforms where the music can be used. Be sure to check the licensing terms before incorporating any track into your content.
2. Give Credit Where It’s Due
If the music is licensed under Creative Commons, it may require you to credit the creator. Always check the license and ensure you attribute the music according to the terms. Typically, the credit should include the creator’s name, the song’s title, and the license under which it was shared.
Example of attribution for Creative Commons music: “Music by [Artist Name] — [Track Name] (CC BY 4.0)”
3. Don’t Violate the Terms of Use
Some music may be offered with restrictions, such as prohibiting commercial use or requiring you to modify the music before use. Be sure to read and follow the terms carefully. Violating these terms can lead to the music being taken down, or you could face legal consequences.
4. Download Music from Trusted Sources
To ensure that the music you are using is genuinely free of copyright claims, download tracks from reputable sources. Many platforms, such as YouTube Audio Library, SoundCloud, and Free Music Archive, provide music that is either public domain or available under Creative Commons licenses. Always double-check the specific terms of use for each track.
5. Understand Platforms’ Policies
Some platforms like YouTube, Instagram, orTwitch have specific rules and systems to monitor music usage. If you’re using no copyright music on these platforms, make sure it aligns with their policies. For example, some platforms may require certain formats or the inclusion of specific metadata for no copyright music.
Where to Find No Copyright Music
There are numerous places online where you can find no copyright music. Here are some popular and reliable platforms:
1. YouTube Audio Library
The YouTube Audio Library offers a wide range of free music that can be used for any purpose. Some tracks require attribution, while others are entirely free to use.
2. Free Music Archive (FMA)
FMA is a great resource for music released under Creative Commons licenses. You can filter the music based on your desired licensing terms, such as whether attribution is required or if commercial use is allowed.
3. SoundCloud
SoundCloud features a range of music that’s either free to use or available under Creative Commons licenses. Some artists release their work for public use, allowing you to download and use it with few or no restrictions.
4. Incompetech
This website, created by Kevin MacLeod, is a goldmine for royalty-free music that is free to use, as long as you provide attribution. MacLeod’s music has been widely used in a variety of content, from YouTube videos to games and films.
5. Bensound
Bensound offers a collection of royalty-free music that can be used for various projects. Some tracks are free for non-commercial use, while others require a paid license for commercial projects.
6. Jamendo
Jamendo provides a huge selection of music under Creative Commons licenses, making it easy to find tracks for personal, commercial, and non-commercial use. You can even purchase licenses for commercial projects if needed.
Conclusion
No copyright music offers a practical solution for content creators who want to avoid the headaches of copyright infringement. By understanding what no copyright music is, how to use it legally, and where to find it, you can incorporate music into your projects with confidence. Remember to always check the licensing terms, give appropriate credit, and respect the creator’s wishes to ensure that you’re using music legally and ethically.
