Hey guys! Creating engaging vlogs often requires the perfect soundtrack, but navigating copyright issues can be a real headache. Using copyrighted music without permission can lead to takedown notices, demonetization, or even legal trouble – yikes! So, where can you find amazing copyright free music to spice up your vlogs? Don't worry, I’ve got you covered. This article dives deep into the best resources for royalty-free and creative commons music, ensuring your vlogs sound awesome without breaking any rules. Let's explore the fantastic world of royalty-free music and discover how to elevate your vlogging game!

Understanding Copyright and Music

First off, let’s quickly break down why this is so important. Music is automatically protected by copyright as soon as it’s created. This means the composer and publisher have exclusive rights to its use. Unless you obtain explicit permission or a license, using copyrighted music in your videos can land you in hot water. Imagine spending hours editing your vlog, only to have it taken down because of a song! That's why understanding the basics of copyright is crucial for every content creator. Copyright law aims to protect the creators and their original works, including musical compositions and recordings. These protections grant the copyright holder exclusive rights over how their music is used, distributed, and reproduced. This covers a wide range of uses, from streaming and broadcasting to including the music in video content. When it comes to vlogging, understanding these rules is vital to avoid legal pitfalls. If you use a copyrighted song without permission, you could face penalties such as having your video taken down, receiving a copyright strike on your YouTube channel, or even facing legal action from the copyright holder. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you’ve invested a lot of time and effort into your video. The good news is that there are plenty of options for finding high-quality music that you can use without worrying about copyright infringement. That's where royalty-free and Creative Commons music come in. So, let’s get into what those terms really mean and how you can use them to enhance your vlogs without any stress. By understanding the fundamentals of music copyright, you can confidently navigate the process of selecting and incorporating music into your content. This not only protects you legally but also allows you to focus on creating the best possible vlogs for your audience.

What is Royalty-Free Music?

So, what exactly is royalty-free music? It doesn't mean the music is free, but rather that you pay a one-time fee for a license to use the music. After that, you don’t have to pay ongoing royalties every time your video is played. Think of it as buying a license to use a song in your videos indefinitely. This is a fantastic option for vloggers because it provides budget predictability – you know exactly how much you’re spending upfront. Royalty-free music libraries often have extensive catalogs spanning various genres, moods, and styles. This variety makes it easier to find the perfect track to match the tone and pace of your vlog. Plus, many platforms offer different licensing options depending on your needs, such as licenses for personal use or commercial use. When you purchase a royalty-free license, you typically gain the right to use the music in multiple projects without further payment. However, it’s essential to read the terms of the license carefully. Some licenses may have restrictions on how the music can be used, such as limitations on broadcast usage or monetization. Make sure you understand these terms to avoid any future issues. Another advantage of royalty-free music is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that you have legally secured the rights to use a song allows you to focus on your creative process without the worry of copyright claims. This can be a huge relief, especially as your channel grows and your content reaches a larger audience. By investing in royalty-free music, you’re investing in the long-term success of your vlogging career. It allows you to create professional-sounding content while staying compliant with copyright laws. So, let's move on to some of the best sources where you can find this awesome royalty-free music for your vlogs!

Top Websites for Copyright Free Music

Okay, let's dive into the good stuff – where to find copyright free music! There are tons of amazing websites out there offering high-quality tracks for your vlogs. Let’s break down some of the best options, so you can start adding killer soundtracks to your videos right away. We'll explore a mix of platforms, from those offering entirely free music to subscription-based services that provide a vast library of options. Each platform has its own strengths and weaknesses, so let's take a closer look at what they offer.

YouTube Audio Library

First up, the YouTube Audio Library is a goldmine for vloggers. It’s free and directly integrated into YouTube, making it super convenient. You can search by genre, mood, instrument, and even license type. The library is constantly updated with new tracks, ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover. One of the biggest advantages of the YouTube Audio Library is its ease of use. Since it’s part of the YouTube platform, you can easily browse and download tracks without leaving your Creator Studio. This integration streamlines your workflow and saves you time. Plus, all the music in the library is cleared for use on YouTube, so you don’t have to worry about copyright claims. The search filters in the YouTube Audio Library are incredibly helpful for narrowing down your options. You can specify the mood you’re going for – whether it’s upbeat, dramatic, or cinematic – and the genre you prefer, such as pop, rock, or electronic. You can also filter by instrument, which is great if you have a specific sound in mind, like acoustic guitar or piano. Another fantastic feature is the ability to filter by license type. Most tracks in the library are available under a Creative Commons license, which means you can use them for free as long as you give proper attribution to the artist. However, there are also tracks that don’t require attribution, giving you even more flexibility. While the YouTube Audio Library is an excellent resource, it’s worth noting that the selection might not be as extensive as some paid platforms. Still, it’s a fantastic starting point, especially for new vloggers who are just beginning to explore copyright-free music options. Plus, the fact that it’s free makes it an unbeatable choice for budget-conscious creators. So, if you’re looking for a reliable and user-friendly source of copyright-free music, the YouTube Audio Library should definitely be on your radar.

Epidemic Sound

Epidemic Sound is another fantastic option, but it’s a subscription-based service. They offer a huge library of high-quality music and sound effects. With a subscription, you get a license to use their music in your videos across various platforms. The great thing about Epidemic Sound is that they own all the rights to their music, so you're fully covered when you use their tracks. This means no more copyright strikes or demonetization worries – phew! One of the standout features of Epidemic Sound is the sheer size and diversity of their catalog. They have thousands of tracks spanning a wide range of genres, from pop and electronic to cinematic and acoustic. This variety makes it easy to find the perfect music to match the tone and style of your vlogs. Plus, they add new music regularly, so you’ll always have fresh options to choose from. The subscription model of Epidemic Sound provides excellent value for vloggers who create content frequently. Instead of paying for individual licenses for each track, you pay a monthly or annual fee for unlimited access to their entire library. This can save you a significant amount of money in the long run, especially if you use music in multiple videos per month. Epidemic Sound’s licensing terms are also very straightforward. As long as your subscription is active, you’re covered to use their music in your videos, even if you monetize them. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re fully compliant with copyright laws. They also have different subscription plans tailored to different needs, such as personal use and commercial use. This flexibility allows you to choose the plan that best fits your vlogging goals and budget. Another great aspect of Epidemic Sound is their user-friendly platform. Their website is easy to navigate, with intuitive search filters that help you quickly find the tracks you’re looking for. You can search by genre, mood, tempo, and even vocal characteristics, making it simple to narrow down your options. Plus, they offer curated playlists and collections, which can be a great source of inspiration when you’re unsure where to start. While Epidemic Sound is a paid service, the investment is often well worth it for vloggers who prioritize high-quality music and want to avoid copyright issues. The peace of mind and extensive library make it a top choice for many content creators.

Artlist

Artlist is another subscription-based platform that’s incredibly popular among vloggers. They offer a curated library of high-quality, cinematic music. With an Artlist subscription, you get a universal license that covers all your video projects, forever! This is a huge benefit because you can use the music even after your subscription expires. Artlist stands out for its focus on quality over quantity. While their library may not be as vast as some other platforms, the music they offer is consistently top-notch. They curate their catalog carefully, selecting tracks that have a cinematic feel and are well-produced. This makes it a great choice for vloggers who want to add a professional touch to their videos. The universal license offered by Artlist is one of its most compelling features. Unlike some other platforms that have complex licensing terms, Artlist’s license is simple and straightforward. Once you download a track during your subscription period, you can use it in any of your projects, even after your subscription ends. This provides long-term value and flexibility, as you don’t have to worry about renewing your subscription just to keep using the music in your older videos. Artlist’s subscription plans are designed to be all-inclusive, covering both personal and commercial use. This means you can use their music in your vlogs, sponsored content, and other commercial projects without any additional fees. This simplicity is a major draw for many vloggers who want to avoid the hassle of managing multiple licenses. The platform itself is user-friendly, with a clean and intuitive interface. Artlist’s search filters are robust, allowing you to search by mood, genre, instrument, and even video theme. This makes it easy to find music that fits the specific needs of your vlog. They also offer curated collections and playlists, which can help you discover new tracks and get inspired. Artlist also offers sound effects, which can be a valuable addition to your vlogging toolkit. Having access to both high-quality music and sound effects in one platform simplifies your workflow and ensures consistency in your audio. While Artlist is a subscription-based service, many vloggers find the cost to be justified by the quality of the music and the simplicity of the licensing. The peace of mind that comes with using well-produced, fully licensed music is a significant benefit for content creators who want to focus on their creative work without worrying about copyright issues. So, if you’re looking for a platform that prioritizes quality and offers a straightforward licensing model, Artlist is definitely worth considering.

PremiumBeat

PremiumBeat, owned by Shutterstock, is another fantastic option for copyright free music. They offer a curated library of exclusive tracks, and you can purchase licenses for individual songs or subscribe for unlimited access. PremiumBeat is known for its high production quality and diverse range of genres. One of the key strengths of PremiumBeat is its integration with Shutterstock, a leading provider of stock photos and videos. This makes it a convenient choice for vloggers who need a one-stop shop for all their creative assets. The ability to access both high-quality music and visuals from a single platform streamlines your workflow and ensures a consistent aesthetic across your content. PremiumBeat’s library is carefully curated, with each track handpicked for its quality and originality. They work with a global network of musicians to ensure a diverse range of genres and styles. Whether you’re looking for upbeat pop tracks, cinematic scores, or mellow acoustic tunes, you’re likely to find something that fits your needs on PremiumBeat. The platform offers flexible licensing options, allowing you to purchase licenses for individual tracks or subscribe for unlimited access. If you only need music occasionally, purchasing individual licenses can be a cost-effective option. However, if you create content frequently, a subscription plan will likely provide better value. PremiumBeat’s licensing terms are clear and straightforward. They offer different license types depending on how you plan to use the music, such as standard licenses for web use and premium licenses for broadcast and commercial applications. Make sure to read the terms carefully to ensure you’re choosing the right license for your needs. The user interface on PremiumBeat is clean and intuitive, making it easy to browse and discover new music. Their search filters are robust, allowing you to search by genre, mood, tempo, and even instrument. They also offer curated playlists and collections, which can be a great source of inspiration. PremiumBeat is a solid choice for vloggers who prioritize high-quality music and want a reliable platform with clear licensing terms. The integration with Shutterstock is a significant advantage for those who need both music and visuals, making it a convenient option for content creators. While PremiumBeat is a paid service, the investment can be well worth it for vloggers who want to elevate the production value of their videos. The combination of a curated library, flexible licensing, and a user-friendly interface makes PremiumBeat a top contender in the world of royalty-free music.

Other Great Resources

Beyond these top contenders, there are other awesome resources for copyright free music. Sites like AudioJungle, Bensound, and Incompetech offer a variety of options, from free tracks to affordable licenses. Don’t be afraid to explore and find hidden gems! AudioJungle, part of the Envato Market, is a massive marketplace for royalty-free music and audio. With a vast library of tracks and sound effects, AudioJungle offers options for almost any type of project. You can purchase licenses for individual tracks, making it a flexible choice for vloggers who need music on an occasional basis. One of the key strengths of AudioJungle is its sheer size and variety. With hundreds of thousands of tracks available, you’re likely to find music in almost any genre or style. This makes it a great option for vloggers who have diverse content needs or are looking for something very specific. The platform allows you to preview tracks before purchasing, so you can ensure they fit your needs. AudioJungle’s licensing terms are straightforward, with options for different types of use, such as web, broadcast, and commercial applications. Make sure to read the terms carefully to choose the appropriate license for your project. The pricing on AudioJungle varies depending on the track and the type of license you need. While it can be more expensive than some subscription-based services if you need a lot of music, it can be a cost-effective option for occasional use. The search filters on AudioJungle are robust, allowing you to search by genre, mood, tempo, and other criteria. This makes it easier to narrow down your options and find the perfect track for your vlog. AudioJungle also offers a rating and review system, allowing you to see what other users think of a particular track. This can be helpful in making your decision. Overall, AudioJungle is a solid choice for vloggers who need a wide variety of music and are comfortable purchasing licenses for individual tracks. The vast library and flexible licensing options make it a valuable resource for content creators. Bensound is another excellent resource for royalty-free music, offering a selection of tracks that are free to use with attribution. If you don’t want to provide attribution, you can purchase a license for commercial use. Bensound is known for its high-quality music and easy-to-understand licensing terms. One of the biggest advantages of Bensound is its free music library. Many of the tracks on the site are available for free use as long as you give credit to the artist in your video description. This makes it a great option for vloggers who are on a tight budget or are just starting out. The quality of the music on Bensound is consistently high, with tracks spanning a range of genres and styles. Whether you’re looking for upbeat pop music, cinematic scores, or mellow acoustic tunes, you’re likely to find something that fits your needs on Bensound. If you don’t want to provide attribution, you can purchase a license for commercial use. This license covers you for a variety of uses, including YouTube videos, podcasts, and other online content. Bensound’s licensing terms are clear and easy to understand, making it a user-friendly option for vloggers. The website is well-organized and easy to navigate, with clear categories and search filters. You can browse by genre, mood, or popularity, making it simple to find the right music for your vlog. Bensound is a great option for vloggers who need high-quality music and want a mix of free and paid options. The free tracks are a fantastic resource for budget-conscious creators, while the commercial licenses provide flexibility for those who need more extensive usage rights. Incompetech is a website created by composer Kevin MacLeod, offering a vast library of royalty-free music. Much of the music on Incompetech is available for free use with attribution, making it a valuable resource for vloggers. If you don’t want to provide attribution, you can purchase a license for commercial use. One of the standout features of Incompetech is the sheer size of its music library. Kevin MacLeod has created thousands of tracks spanning a wide range of genres and styles, so you’re likely to find something that fits your needs on Incompetech. The music on Incompetech is available for free use as long as you give credit to Kevin MacLeod in your video description. This makes it a great option for vloggers who are on a budget or are just starting out. If you don’t want to provide attribution, you can purchase a license for commercial use. The licensing terms on Incompetech are straightforward, making it a user-friendly option for content creators. The website itself is simple and easy to navigate, with clear categories and search filters. You can browse by genre, mood, or tempo, making it easy to find the right music for your vlog. While the website design may not be as modern as some other platforms, the quality and variety of the music make Incompetech a valuable resource. Incompetech is a fantastic option for vloggers who need a large library of royalty-free music and are comfortable providing attribution. The free tracks are an excellent resource for budget-conscious creators, while the commercial licenses provide flexibility for those who need more extensive usage rights. So, these are just a few of the many great resources available for finding copyright-free music. By exploring these options, you can find the perfect soundtrack for your vlogs without worrying about copyright issues.

Creative Commons Licenses

Let’s chat about Creative Commons licenses – another fantastic way to access copyright free music. Creative Commons is a non-profit organization that provides free legal tools for creators to grant permissions for others to use their work. There are different types of Creative Commons licenses, each with its own set of rules. Understanding these licenses is key to using music legally in your vlogs. Creative Commons licenses allow creators to share their work while retaining some rights. This means you can often use the music for free, but you might need to give attribution to the artist. This is a win-win situation – you get to use awesome music, and the artist gets recognition for their work. Let's delve into the specifics of these licenses so you know exactly how to use them. One of the most common Creative Commons licenses is the Attribution (CC BY) license. This license allows you to use, distribute, and remix the music, even commercially, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original creator. This means you need to include the artist's name, the title of the song, and a link to the license in your video description. Another common license is the Attribution-ShareAlike (CC BY-SA) license. This license is similar to the CC BY license, but it adds the requirement that if you remix or adapt the music, you must distribute your contributions under the same license. This helps to ensure that the work remains open and accessible to others. The Attribution-NoDerivatives (CC BY-ND) license allows you to use the music, even commercially, but you cannot make any changes to it. This means you can't remix, sample, or otherwise alter the music. You must use the track in its original form. The Attribution-NonCommercial (CC BY-NC) license allows you to use the music for non-commercial purposes. This means you can't use it in videos that you monetize or in other commercial projects. However, you can use it in personal projects, such as school projects or hobby videos. There are also combination licenses, such as the Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike (CC BY-NC-SA) license, which combines the restrictions of the NC and SA licenses. This means you can use the music for non-commercial purposes, and if you remix it, you must distribute your contributions under the same license. Understanding these different Creative Commons licenses is crucial for using music legally in your vlogs. Make sure to read the terms of the license carefully before using any music, and always provide appropriate attribution when required. By using Creative Commons music, you can support independent artists and add fantastic soundtracks to your videos without breaking the bank. Creative Commons licenses provide a flexible and legal way to access a wide range of music for your vlogs. By understanding the different types of licenses and following their terms, you can ensure that you’re using music legally and ethically. This not only protects you from copyright issues but also supports the creators who make this music available. So, next time you’re looking for copyright-free music, consider exploring Creative Commons options and add some awesome tracks to your videos!

Tips for Choosing the Right Music

Alright, you know where to find the music, but how do you choose the right music for your vlog? Here are a few tips to help you nail your soundtrack selection. The right music can make or break your vlog, so it's worth taking the time to find the perfect fit. Music can set the tone, create emotion, and enhance the overall viewing experience. So, let's dive into some tips that will help you make the best choices.

Match the Mood

First and foremost, the music should match the mood of your video. An upbeat, energetic track might be perfect for a travel vlog, while a more mellow, acoustic tune could be better for a reflective vlog. Think about the emotions you want to evoke in your viewers and choose music that aligns with those feelings. The mood of your music should complement the content of your vlog. For example, if you're creating a tutorial video, you might want to choose music that is upbeat and positive to keep your viewers engaged. On the other hand, if you're sharing a personal story, you might opt for more emotional and introspective music. Consider the overall tone of your vlog and select music that enhances that tone. If your vlog is lighthearted and fun, choose music that reflects that energy. If your vlog is more serious or informative, choose music that is calming and professional. The goal is to create a cohesive experience for your viewers, where the music seamlessly blends with the visuals and narrative. In addition to the overall mood, think about specific moments in your vlog where music can have a particular impact. For example, you might use a dramatic piece of music to build tension or a happy tune to celebrate a success. By carefully selecting music for key moments, you can create a more engaging and memorable vlog. Also, pay attention to the pacing of your music. If your vlog has a fast pace, choose music that is upbeat and energetic. If your vlog has a slower pace, choose music that is more mellow and relaxed. The music should match the rhythm and flow of your video to create a seamless viewing experience. Experiment with different genres and styles to see what works best for your content. You might be surprised at how different types of music can enhance your vlogs. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Ultimately, the best music for your vlog is the music that resonates with you and your audience. Trust your instincts and choose music that you love. If you're passionate about the music you use, that enthusiasm will likely translate to your viewers. So, when choosing music, always start by matching the mood and emotions you want to convey. This will set the foundation for a great soundtrack that enhances your vlogs.

Consider Your Audience

Think about who your audience is and what kind of music they might enjoy. If you cater to a younger audience, trendy pop or electronic music might be a good fit. If your audience is more mature, you might consider genres like jazz or classical. Knowing your audience is key to choosing music that will resonate with them. The music you select should align with your audience's taste and preferences. This can help to keep them engaged and make them feel more connected to your content. Consider the demographics of your audience, such as age, gender, and cultural background. This can give you valuable insights into the types of music they might enjoy. If you're not sure what your audience likes, consider doing some research. You can look at the types of music that are popular in their age group or cultural background. You can also ask your audience directly through polls or surveys. Another great way to understand your audience's taste is to look at the comments and feedback you receive on your videos. Pay attention to any comments about the music you've used in the past. This can give you a sense of what your audience likes and what they don't. In addition to demographics, think about the interests and values of your audience. If your audience is interested in travel, you might choose music that evokes a sense of adventure and exploration. If your audience values sustainability, you might choose music that is eco-friendly or organic. The goal is to choose music that is meaningful and relevant to your audience. Keep in mind that your audience may have diverse tastes and preferences. It's important to strike a balance between choosing music that you love and music that your audience will enjoy. One strategy is to use a variety of genres and styles in your vlogs to cater to different tastes. You can also use music to introduce your audience to new sounds and styles. This can be a great way to expand their musical horizons and keep your content fresh and interesting. Ultimately, the best music for your vlog is the music that your audience will enjoy and that will enhance their viewing experience. By considering your audience's tastes and preferences, you can choose music that will resonate with them and keep them coming back for more. So, always consider your audience when selecting music for your vlogs. Understanding their preferences can lead to more engaging and enjoyable content for everyone.

Don't Overuse Music

It's tempting to fill every second of your vlog with music, but less is often more. Overusing music can be distracting and take away from your message. Use music strategically to enhance certain moments, but don't be afraid to let your natural sound and dialogue shine. Silence can be just as powerful as music. Think about how music enhances your vlog, rather than becoming the main focus. Music should complement your video, not overshadow it. It’s a tool to enhance the emotional impact, not a constant background noise. Too much music can create a sense of overwhelm and make it difficult for viewers to focus on what you’re saying. Strategic use of music can create a more dynamic and engaging experience. Think about using music to build anticipation, emphasize key points, or create a sense of closure. Silence, on the other hand, can be incredibly effective for drawing attention to your words or creating a moment of reflection. Don't be afraid to let your vlog breathe. Moments of silence can be just as powerful as music in conveying emotion and creating a connection with your audience. Pay attention to the rhythm and pacing of your vlog. If you're speaking quickly and there's a lot of visual action, you might use music sparingly to avoid overwhelming your viewers. If your vlog has a slower pace, you might use music more frequently to maintain interest and engagement. Consider the length of your vlog as well. If your vlog is short, you might use music more strategically to make a big impact. If your vlog is longer, you might use music more sparingly to avoid listener fatigue. One effective strategy is to use music primarily during the intro and outro of your vlog, and then use it sparingly during the body of the video. This can help to create a strong opening and closing impression, while allowing your message to shine through in the middle. Another approach is to use music primarily during transition moments or when you're showing visuals without speaking. This can help to maintain a consistent mood and prevent lulls in the viewing experience. Remember, the goal is to use music intentionally to enhance your vlog, not to fill empty space. By using music strategically, you can create a more engaging and impactful viewing experience for your audience. So, don't overuse music in your vlogs. Use it purposefully to enhance the viewing experience, but don’t let it overshadow your message. Strategic use of music and silence can be incredibly powerful.

Final Thoughts

Finding copyright free music for your vlogs doesn't have to be a daunting task. With so many fantastic resources available, you can easily create amazing soundtracks that elevate your content. Remember to understand the different licensing options, choose music that matches your video's mood and audience, and use music strategically. Now go out there and create some awesome vlogs with killer tunes! You’ve got the knowledge and the resources – so get those creative juices flowing and make some magic happen! Happy vlogging, guys!