Can I use popular songs in my videos?

Yes, you CAN legally use copyrighted music in YouTube videos BUT you need to understand how YouTube’s copyright system works.

How can I use copyrighted music in videos?

If you want to legally use copyrighted music on YouTube, you’ll have to go out and get approval from the original creator in order to use it. That’s the second side of music licensing. Copyright law makes sure that creators get paid when people use their work — that’s where YouTube’s music policy comes into play.

Can you get a copyright strike on YouTube?

If your video is on YouTube, you can get a copyright strike. This happens when the owner files an infringement complaint. In this case, YouTube will investigate the claim and take down your video if there is copyright violation. YoutTube also uses the so-called Content ID. It is able to recognize that the song has been used before.

What happens if you use a song on YouTube?

For example, if you post your video on YouTube, you could get a copyright strike against your account or have the audio on your video muted (and yes, that’s even if you’re just using it as background music in your YouTube videos) Any ad money might be given to the copyright holder, or in a worst case scenario, you could get sued.

Do you need permission to use a song in a video?

Making the right choice of music in videos is essential. But if the song you plan on using is one that’s copyrighted, you’ll need permission from the record label or whatever party owns the copyright. Be persistent in adding a musical component to your work without violating copyright laws.

Is there a way to use a song for free?

If you’re not up to the task of tracking down the copyright owner of the musical work (s), you can purchase a royalty-free license. Note that royalty-free doesn’t necessarily mean the license itself is free, just that you won’t pay royalties for using it. There are free royalty-free options, however.