Best No Copyright Background Music For YouTube Vlogs
Hey guys! Are you a YouTuber looking for the perfect background music for your vlogs? Finding the right tunes can be a game-changer, but dealing with copyright issues? Total buzzkill! Don't worry, I’ve got you covered. Let's dive into the world of no copyright background music and how you can use it to make your vlogs awesome without any legal headaches.
Understanding Copyright and Royalty-Free Music
So, what's the deal with copyright? Basically, it's a legal protection for creators, ensuring they have control over their work. Whenever you use a copyrighted song without permission, you're technically infringing on that copyright. This can lead to your video being taken down, or worse, legal action. Nobody wants that, right? That’s why understanding the difference between copyrighted music and royalty-free or no-copyright music is super important.
Copyrighted Music: This is music that's protected by copyright laws. You generally need permission (a license) from the copyright holder to use it. Using it without permission can get you into trouble.
Royalty-Free Music: Royalty-free doesn't mean free! It means you pay a one-time fee for a license to use the music. After that, you don't have to pay ongoing royalties to the composer every time your video is played. Think of it as a 'pay once, use forever' kind of deal.
No Copyright Music: This is where it gets interesting. Sometimes, creators release their music under a Creative Commons license or dedicate it to the public domain. This means you can use it for free, often without even needing to give credit (though it’s always a nice thing to do!). No copyright music is awesome because it gives you the freedom to enhance your vlogs without stressing about legal stuff. Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate the music landscape safely and creatively.
Where to Find No Copyright Background Music
Alright, so where can you find these gems of no copyright background music? There are tons of resources out there, each with its own perks. Let’s break down some of the best places to score those perfect tracks for your vlogs.
YouTube Audio Library
The YouTube Audio Library is a fantastic starting point. YouTube offers a vast collection of free music and sound effects that you can use in your videos. The best part? It's all pre-cleared for use on YouTube, so you don’t have to worry about copyright strikes. To access it, just go to your YouTube Studio, click on 'Audio Library' in the left menu, and start browsing. You can filter by genre, mood, instrument, and more to find exactly what you need. The YouTube Audio Library is regularly updated, so there's always something new to discover, and it's all free, making it super accessible for beginners and seasoned YouTubers alike. Plus, you can preview tracks directly in the library, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your vlog.
Epidemic Sound
Epidemic Sound is a subscription-based service that offers a huge library of high-quality music and sound effects. While it's not free, the cost is often worth it for the sheer variety and quality of tracks available. With a subscription, you get a license to use their music in your videos, and you're covered even if you cancel your subscription later, as long as the videos were published while you had an active subscription. Epidemic Sound's catalog is incredibly diverse, covering everything from upbeat pop to cinematic scores. Their search filters are also super helpful, allowing you to find music based on mood, tempo, genre, and more. If you're serious about your YouTube channel and want a reliable source of professional-grade music, Epidemic Sound is definitely worth considering. Plus, they frequently add new tracks, keeping your content fresh and exciting.
Artlist
Similar to Epidemic Sound, Artlist offers a subscription-based model with a focus on high-quality, curated music. Artlist's library is known for its cinematic and artistic feel, making it a great choice for vlogs that aim for a more polished and professional vibe. One of the standout features of Artlist is its universal license, which covers almost any type of project, including commercial use. This means you can use their music in your vlogs, promotional videos, and even films without worrying about extra fees or restrictions. The platform is also very user-friendly, with intuitive search filters that help you quickly find the perfect track. Artlist also emphasizes working directly with independent artists, so you're supporting the music community while enhancing your content. If you're looking for music that stands out and adds a touch of sophistication to your vlogs, Artlist is an excellent option.
SoundCloud
SoundCloud can be a bit of a mixed bag, but it's a goldmine if you know where to look. Many artists offer their music for free under Creative Commons licenses, which means you can use it in your videos as long as you give them credit. The key is to search specifically for tracks with a Creative Commons license. You can do this by using search terms like "Creative Commons music" or filtering your search results by license type. SoundCloud is great for finding unique and indie music that you won't find anywhere else. However, always double-check the specific terms of the license before using a track, as some Creative Commons licenses may have restrictions, such as requiring non-commercial use only. With a little digging, you can discover amazing music and support independent artists at the same time. Just be diligent about verifying the usage rights.
Other Platforms
Besides the big players, there are other platforms where you can find no copyright background music. Free Music Archive offers a wide range of music under various Creative Commons licenses. Bensound is another great resource, offering a selection of tracks that are free to use as long as you credit the artist. Incompetech (Kevin MacLeod) is a classic source, with a huge catalog of music available under a Creative Commons license. Each of these platforms has its own unique style and collection, so it's worth exploring them to find music that suits your vlog's aesthetic. Remember, always check the license terms before using any track to ensure you're complying with the creator's requirements. These alternative platforms can provide hidden gems and help you diversify your music library.
How to Properly Use No Copyright Music
Okay, you've found some awesome no copyright music. Now what? It's not as simple as just dropping it into your video. You need to make sure you're using it correctly to avoid any potential issues down the line.
Check the License
First and foremost, always check the license. Even if a track is labeled as "no copyright," there might be specific terms you need to follow. Some licenses require you to give credit to the artist in your video description. Others might restrict commercial use. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions before using the music. This is a crucial step to protect yourself and respect the creator's wishes. Ignoring the license can lead to copyright claims, even if the music is technically free to use under certain conditions. Taking the time to read and understand the license is a small effort that can save you a lot of headaches in the long run.
Give Credit
If the license requires attribution, make sure you give proper credit to the artist. This usually involves including their name and a link to their website or social media in your video description. It's also a nice gesture to thank them for allowing you to use their music. Giving credit not only fulfills the license requirements but also supports the artist and helps them gain exposure. It's a win-win situation! When giving credit, be clear and specific. Include the full name of the artist, the title of the track, and a direct link to where people can find more of their work. The more information you provide, the better.
Keep Records
It's a good idea to keep records of the music you use and the licenses associated with them. This can be as simple as creating a spreadsheet with the track name, artist, license type, and a link to the license. If you ever receive a copyright claim, you'll have all the information you need to prove that you have the right to use the music. Keeping detailed records is a proactive step that can save you time and stress in the event of a dispute. It also helps you stay organized and avoid accidentally using music without the proper permissions. Think of it as good housekeeping for your YouTube channel.
Tips for Choosing the Right Background Music
Choosing the right background music can significantly enhance the viewing experience and make your vlogs more engaging. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect tunes:
Consider Your Vlog's Tone
The music should match the tone and style of your vlog. If you're creating a travel vlog, upbeat and adventurous music might be a good fit. For a more reflective or personal vlog, you might want to choose something softer and more mellow. The music should complement your content, not distract from it. Think about the overall mood you want to create and choose music that reinforces that feeling. The right music can amplify the emotional impact of your vlog and make it more memorable for your viewers.
Don't Overpower Your Voice
Make sure the music doesn't overpower your voice or other important sounds in your video. The background music should be subtle and supportive, not the main focus. Adjust the volume of the music so that it's audible but doesn't drown out your voiceover or any other essential audio elements. It's a delicate balance, but finding the right level can make a huge difference in the overall clarity and professionalism of your vlog. Listen to your video with headphones to ensure that the music and your voice are properly balanced.
Use Variety
Don't be afraid to use a variety of music in your vlogs. Using the same track throughout your entire video can get repetitive and boring. Mix it up with different genres, moods, and tempos to keep your viewers engaged. You can use different music for different segments of your vlog to reflect the changing themes and emotions. Just be sure to choose music that flows well together and maintains a cohesive feel. Variety is the spice of life, and it can also spice up your vlogs!
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Finding the perfect background music for your YouTube vlogs doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right resources and a little bit of knowledge about copyright and licensing, you can create awesome content without worrying about legal issues. Remember to always check the license, give credit when required, and choose music that complements your vlog's tone. Happy vlogging, guys!
