Music plays a big part in our lives. Whether it’s in a YouTube video, a podcast, a business ad, or a game, music makes everything better. But using music the right way is important. That’s where royalty free music comes in.
In this article, we’ll explain what royalty free music is, how it works, where to find it, and how you can use it safely.
Table of Contents
What Is Royalty Free Music?
Simple Meaning
Royalty free music is music that you can use without paying every time you play it. You only pay once or sometimes not at all, and then you can use it again and again.
For example, if you make YouTube videos and want to add background music, you can buy or download royalty free music and use it in many videos without paying extra fees.
Why Is Royalty Free Music Popular?
Royalty free music is very popular for many reasons:
- Affordable: You don’t need to pay a fee every time.
- Easy to Get: Many websites offer music ready to download.
- Safe to Use: You don’t have to worry about copyright strikes.
- Perfect for Creators: Ideal for YouTubers, podcasters, filmmakers, and more.
How Royalty Free Music Works
One-Time Payment
Some royalty free music is not free. You may need to pay one time to get a license. After that, you can use the music forever.
Free with Conditions
Some music is free but comes with rules. For example, you might need to give credit to the artist.
License Terms
Even royalty free music has a license. You must follow the terms. Some music can be used in personal projects but not in commercials. Always read the license carefully.
Where Can You Use Royalty Free Music?
Royalty free music can be used in many places:
- YouTube videos
- Instagram Reels or TikToks
- Podcasts
- Video games
- Presentations
- Background music in cafes or stores
- Online ads or commercials
Benefits of Using Royalty Free Music
No Legal Trouble
When you use copyrighted music without permission, you can face legal problems. Royalty free music helps you stay safe.
Saves Time and Money
Instead of writing your own music or hiring a composer, royalty free music is fast and cheap.
Easy Access
Many websites offer thousands of tracks in all styles — pop, jazz, classical, and more.
Difference Between Royalty Free and Copyright Free Music
People often get confused between royalty free and copyright free music.
| Type of Music | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Royalty Free | You pay once (or not at all) and use it many times. Copyright still exists. |
| Copyright Free | No copyright protection. You can use it freely. Very rare. |
So, most of the time, you’re looking for royalty free music, not copyright free music.
Best Places to Find Royalty Free Music
YouTube Audio Library
- Cost: Free
- Use: Perfect for YouTube videos
- Notes: Some tracks need credit
Free Music Archive (FMA)
- Cost: Free
- Use: For personal and some commercial use
- Notes: Check license for each song
Epidemic Sound
- Cost: Subscription-based
- Use: Commercial and personal
- Notes: Great quality and large library
Artlist
- Cost: Yearly subscription
- Use: Unlimited downloads for all kinds of projects
- Notes: Royalty free forever
Bensound
- Cost: Free and paid options
- Use: Many project types
- Notes: Free music needs credit
Incompetech
- Cost: Mostly free
- Use: YouTube, games, apps
- Notes: Music by Kevin MacLeod
Types of Royalty Free Music
There’s royalty free music for every mood:
- Happy and upbeat – great for vlogs and fun ads
- Calm and relaxing – perfect for meditation or background use
- Dramatic and cinematic – used in trailers and films
- Corporate and clean – works well in business presentations
- Electronic and energetic – good for gaming or tech content
How to Use Royalty Free Music Safely
Always Read the License
Some royalty free tracks are free for personal use but not for business. Make sure you know the rules.
Give Credit If Needed
Some creators ask you to give credit. For example:
Music: “Dreams” by Bensound.com
Don’t Resell or Claim as Yours
You can use the music, but you can’t sell it or say you made it.
Common Myths About Royalty Free Music
Royalty free music is free
Not always. “Royalty free” means no ongoing fees, but some tracks require a one-time payment.
You don’t need to check the license
Wrong. Always check the license for usage rules.
All royalty free music is low quality
False. Many professional musicians make high-quality royalty free tracks.
Tips for Choosing the Right Music
Match the Mood
Pick music that fits your project. A happy video needs happy music. A serious video needs soft or slow music.
Think About Your Audience
Choose music that your viewers will enjoy. If they are young, try upbeat music. For older audiences, maybe soft jazz or classical.
Use a Music Editing Tool
Sometimes, you may need to cut or loop the track. Tools like Audacity or GarageBand help with that.
FAQs About Royalty Free Music
Can I use royalty free music in my YouTube videos?
Yes, that’s one of the most common uses.
Do I always need to give credit?
Only if the license says so. Check the website.
Is all royalty free music safe from copyright claims?
If you follow the license rules, yes. Still, YouTube can sometimes flag music. That’s why trusted sources are better.
Can I use it in client projects?
Yes, but read the license. Some licenses allow commercial use, some don’t.
What’s the difference between royalty free and Creative Commons?
Creative Commons is a type of license. Some Creative Commons music is royalty free, but not all.
Royalty Free Music for Different Projects
For YouTubers
You need music that is fun, catchy, and safe for monetization. Sites like Artlist and YouTube Audio Library are great.
For Podcasters
Choose background music that doesn’t distract from the voice. Calm and low-volume tracks work best.
For Businesses
Use clean, corporate music in ads or presentations. Make sure the license covers commercial use.
For Games and Apps
Looping tracks or sound effects work well. Check out sites like FreeSound.org or Incompetech.
Royalty Free Music for Social Media
Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are strict about music.
- Use music from the app’s library when possible.
- Or use royalty free music you have rights to.
- Avoid using popular songs unless they’re cleared.
Why Royalty Free Music Matters
Royalty free music helps creators share their work with the world without breaking the law. It keeps costs low and lets people focus on being creative instead of worrying about legal problems.
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, royalty free music gives you the tools to add emotion and energy to your content.
Final Thoughts
Royalty free music is a powerful tool for creators, businesses, and everyday users. It gives you access to quality music without the headache of legal issues or big fees. Just remember to:
- Pick the right music for your project
- Always read and follow the license
- Use trusted websites
With royalty free music, your content can sound as great as it looks.