The quest for the perfect background music for videos and YouTube channels can be a daunting task, especially when budget constraints come into play. Fortunately, numerous high-quality, royalty-free music options are available at no cost, catering to various tastes and video content types. This comprehensive guide will explore the best free background music sources, understand their licensing terms, and provide practical tips on how to effectively integrate them into your video content.
Understanding Royalty-Free Music
Before diving into the best sources for free background music, it’s essential to grasp what “royalty-free” means. Royalty-free music doesn’t necessarily mean it’s free; rather, it indicates that after paying a one-time fee (which can be $0 in the case of genuinely free music), you can use the music without paying additional royalties for each use. However, the terms and conditions of use can vary significantly across different sources.
Top Sources for Free Background Music
YouTube Audio Library: YouTube offers a vast library of free music that can be used in YouTube videos. The library is categorized by genre, mood, and instrument, making it easy to find the right fit. All tracks are free to use and are automatically cleared for use on YouTube.
Free Music Archive (FMA): FMA is a collaborative project between radio station WFMU and several other organizations. It offers a vast collection of high-quality, legal audio downloads directed by its artists. The music is curated by the community, and you can filter by genre and license type.
Audio Library: Similar to YouTube’s Audio Library, Audio Library offers a wide range of free music tracks that are available for download. The platform is popular among YouTubers and videocreators due to its user-friendly interface and clear licensing terms.
No Copyright Sounds (NCS): NCS is a popular channel on YouTube that releases music under a Creative Commons license, allowing creators to use their tracks for free in their videos, as long as they give proper credit.
Bensound: Bensound offers a wide variety of royalty-free music tracks that are free to use for both personal and commercial purposes. The site categorizes music by mood and genre, and while attribution is required for some tracks, it provides a valuable resource for creators.
Jamendo Music: Jamendo is a platform that offers free music under Creative Commons licenses. You can find a vast array of music suitable for videos, from electronic to jazz and more.
SoundCloud: While not all music on SoundCloud is free or royalty-free, many artists upload their tracks under Creative Commons licenses or as free downloads. Using the search filters can help you find suitable tracks.
Incompetech: Incompetech, founded by Kevin MacLeod, offers a vast collection of royalty-free music that is free to use for personal and commercial projects. The site is well-organized, with music sorted by genre and mood.
Purple Planet Music: Purple Planet offers a range of free background music tracks that are suitable for various types of videos. The music is categorized and available for download.
Epidemic Sound: While Epidemic Sound is primarily a paid service, it offers a limited selection of free tracks. It’s worth checking out for high-quality music, though be aware that the free selection is limited.
Licensing Terms and Conditions
Understanding the licensing terms is crucial when using free background music. Common licenses include:
- Creative Commons (CC) Licenses: These licenses allow creators to share their work while retaining some rights. The specific terms (e.g., attribution required, non-commercial use only) vary.
- Public Domain: Works in the public domain are not protected by copyright and can be used freely without any restrictions.
- Royalty-Free: As mentioned, this doesn’t always mean free upfront but indicates no additional royalties are due after the initial use or purchase.
Tips for Choosing and Using Background Music
Match the Mood: The background music should complement the mood and tone of your video content. For example, upbeat tracks for energetic content and softer tracks for more emotional or serious content.
Consider the Tempo: The tempo of the music should align with the pace of your video. Fast-paced videos benefit from quicker music, while slower videos may suit slower tracks.
Volume Levels: Ensure the background music doesn’t overpower dialogue or sound effects. It’s usually best to keep the music at a lower volume.
Legal Use: Always check the licensing terms and give attribution where required. This not only avoids legal issues but also supports the artists.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try out different tracks and genres. Sometimes, an unexpected choice can elevate your content.
Can I use free background music for commercial videos?
+Yes, but it depends on the licensing terms of the specific track. Some free background music is available for commercial use, while others may require attribution or have restrictions. Always check the license.
Do I need to give credit for free background music?
+It depends on the license. Some tracks require attribution (crediting the artist or source), while others do not. Check the specific licensing terms for the track you're using.
Can I use the same background music for multiple videos?
+Generally, yes, as long as the license terms allow for it. Some licenses may have restrictions on repeated use or use across multiple projects, so it's essential to review the terms.
Is it legal to use YouTube's Audio Library music in other platforms besides YouTube?
+YouTube's Audio Library is specifically designed for YouTube videos. While it doesn't explicitly state you can't use it elsewhere, it's intended for YouTube. For other platforms, check the license terms or consider alternative sources.
How can I find background music that fits my video's specific mood or genre?
+Use platforms that allow filtering by mood, genre, or instrument. Sites like YouTube Audio Library, Free Music Archive, and Bensound offer such filters. You can also search for playlists or collections curated for specific moods or genres.
The world of free background music is rich and diverse, offering something for every type of video content. By understanding the licensing terms and choosing music that complements your content, you can enhance your videos without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or just starting out, the right background music can make a significant difference in engaging your audience and elevating your content.
