Wondering if a song is copyrighted? Most music you find online is protected under copyright law—even if it’s old, short, or credited. Using copyrighted music without proper permission can lead to YouTube takedowns, demonetization, or legal action. In this guide, you’ll learn how to check if music is copyrighted, verify licensing status, and find copyright-free alternatives using tools like Content ID, official databases, and Creative Commons licenses.


Music copyright is a legal framework that grants creators of original music exclusive rights to their work. These rights include the ability to reproduce, distribute, perform, and create derivative works from the original piece. Copyright protection covers both the composition (melody, harmony, lyrics) and the sound recording (the actual recorded performance).

For content creators on platforms like YouTube, using music without proper rights can lead to copyright claims, video takedowns, demonetization, or even legal action. Understanding how music copyright operates is essential to avoid these risks.

The duration of music copyright depends on the jurisdiction, but in many countries, including the United States, the general rule is:

  • For compositions: Copyright lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years.
  • For sound recordings: Protection typically lasts 70 years from the date of publication or 95 years from creation, depending on the circumstances.

Once this period expires, the music enters the public domain and can be used freely.

Types of Rights Involved

There are two main types of rights in music that are important for YouTube creators:

  • Composition Rights: These belong to the songwriter or composer and are typically managed by music publishers or Performance Rights Organizations (PROs).
  • Sound Recording Rights: These are owned by the recording artist or their label and cover the specific recorded version of a song.

Using a song legally often requires permission for both the composition and the recording, especially if you are using the original track.

Public Domain vs. Copyrighted Music

Music in the public domain is not protected by copyright and can be used freely. This includes:

  • Works published before a certain date (e.g., before 1924 in the U.S.)
  • Music explicitly released into the public domain by the rights holder

However, not all old music is public domain. For example, a modern recording of a classical piece may still be copyrighted even if the composition itself is not.

Common Misconceptions About Copyrighted Music

Many creators misunderstand the rules around music usage. Here are some frequent misconceptions:

  • “If I give credit, I can use it.” Giving credit does not replace the need for a license.
  • “I only used a few seconds, so it’s fine.” Even brief clips can trigger copyright claims unless they fall under fair use, which is limited and context-specific.
  • “I bought the song, so I can use it.” Purchasing a song (e.g., on iTunes or Spotify) gives you a license for personal listening, not for public or commercial use.

YouTube uses an automated system called Content ID to detect copyrighted music in uploaded videos. Rights holders can submit their music to Content ID, and the system scans videos for matches. If a match is found, the rights holder can:

  • Block the video globally or in specific countries
  • Monetize the video by placing ads
  • Track viewership statistics

Even if you believe your use qualifies as fair use, Content ID may still flag your video, and you may need to dispute the claim through YouTube’s system.

Understanding Fair Use and Its Limits

Fair use is a legal doctrine that allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission, typically for criticism, commentary, news reporting, teaching, or research. However, fair use is a defense, not a right, and is judged on a case-by-case basis based on:

  • Purpose and character of the use (e.g., commercial or educational)
  • Nature of the copyrighted work
  • Amount and substantiality of the portion used
  • Effect on the market value of the original work

On YouTube, relying on fair use is risky, especially without legal knowledge or guidance, as the platform may still remove or demonetize your content.

How to Know If Music Is Copyrighted

To determine whether a song is copyrighted, consider the following steps:

  • Check official copyright databases, such as the U.S. Copyright Office or international equivalents.
  • Search in PRO databases, like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC, which list registered compositions.
  • Use YouTube’s Creator Studio to upload a private video and see if Content ID flags the music.
  • Utilize music recognition tools, such as Shazam or SoundHound, to identify tracks and investigate their licensing status.
  • Look for licensing terms on royalty-free platforms or Creative Commons sites to confirm usage rights.

Understanding these fundamentals empowers content creators to make informed decisions and avoid costly copyright issues.

Ensuring you're using music legally in your content starts with properly verifying its copyright status. Several tools and resources can help creators determine whether a piece of music is protected under copyright law or available for use without restrictions.

Use YouTube’s Content ID System

YouTube's Content ID is an automated system that scans uploaded videos and matches them against a database of copyrighted audio and visual content. If the music in your video is claimed by a rights holder, YouTube will notify you with a copyright claim detailing:

  • The portion of the video that matches copyrighted content
  • The name of the content owner
  • Whether the video is blocked, monetized by the rights holder, or requires takedown action

While Content ID is reactive (informing you after upload), it can still be useful to check copyright status by uploading a private or unlisted video and observing whether a claim is triggered.

There are multiple databases you can consult to confirm the copyright status of a song:

  • U.S. Copyright Office Public Catalog: This government-run database allows you to search by song title, author, or registration number. It provides registration details and the copyright owner’s name.
  • Library of Congress Records: Useful for older works, this resource can help identify whether a song is in the public domain or still protected.
  • International Copyright Databases: For music from outside the U.S., databases like the UK’s PRS for Music, Canada’s SOCAN, or Australia’s APRA AMCOS offer searchable catalogs of registered works.

Consult Performance Rights Organization (PRO) Databases

Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) manage the licensing of music for public performance and often maintain searchable databases of all music under their representation. These include:

  • ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers)
  • BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.)
  • SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers)

By searching a song title or composer name, you can verify whether the music is registered and who owns the rights.

Use Music Recognition and Metadata Tools

Music recognition apps and metadata analysis tools can help identify a song and provide clues about its copyright status:

  • Shazam or SoundHound: These apps can identify songs playing in the background and link to official releases, often indicating commercial copyright.
  • Tunatic or AudD: These tools provide similar functions and can help identify music whose rights need to be investigated further.
  • AudioTag.info: Upload a clip to this tool to identify the song and its copyright metadata.

Check Streaming Platforms and Licensing Notes

Music available on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music is almost always copyrighted. These platforms may include basic licensing information, such as the label or publisher, which you can cross-reference through PROs or copyright databases.

Additionally, platforms like SoundCloud or Bandcamp may indicate if a track is shared under a Creative Commons license or for non-commercial use. Always read the licensing terms carefully.

Some music files include metadata that specifies copyright information, including:

  • Composer or publisher name
  • Year of copyright
  • Licensing terms
  • Usage restrictions

You can view this metadata using media players or editing software like VLC Media Player, Adobe Audition, or Audacity.

Contact the Rights Holder Directly

If the copyright status remains unclear, reaching out directly to the artist, publisher, or label can provide clarity. This is especially true for independent or lesser-known artists who may be open to granting permission or negotiating a license.

Use YouTube Audio Library

YouTube offers a library of music and sound effects that are free to use in YouTube videos. Some tracks are completely royalty-free, while others require attribution. You can:

  • Search by genre, mood, or instrument
  • Filter by attribution requirement
  • Download directly from the library

This is one of the safest and easiest ways to find music that won’t trigger copyright issues.

Look for Creative Commons Licenses

Music released under Creative Commons (CC) licenses can often be used for free, depending on the license type. Common variants include:

  • CC BY: Use allowed with attribution
  • CC BY-NC: Use allowed for non-commercial purposes only
  • CC BY-SA: Use allowed with attribution and share-alike requirements

You can find CC-licensed music on platforms like Free Music Archive, Jamendo, and ccMixter.

By combining these methods, creators can make informed decisions about whether a piece of music can be used legally and safely in their content.

Different Types of Music Licenses

Understanding the various types of music licenses is essential for YouTube creators and digital content producers. Each license defines how a piece of music may be used, what permissions are granted, and what legal responsibilities the user has. Using the correct license ensures compliance with copyright laws and protects creators from potential legal disputes or platform penalties.

Sync License (Synchronization License)

A sync license allows you to synchronize music with visual media—such as YouTube videos, films, commercials, or presentations. This type of license is typically required whenever music is paired with video content, regardless of whether the video is monetized.

Sync licenses must be obtained from the copyright holder, usually the music publisher, and are necessary even if the music is used for a few seconds. Without a sync license, using copyrighted music in a YouTube video can result in a Content ID claim, demonetization, or removal of the video.

Master Use License

A master use license is required to use a specific recording of a song. While the sync license gives permission to use the composition (lyrics and melody), the master license pertains to the actual recorded version of the song.

This license is usually obtained from the record label or whoever owns the recording. If you're using a cover or alternate version, you may not need a master use license but still need a sync license for the composition.

Mechanical License

A mechanical license allows a user to reproduce and distribute a musical composition in audio-only formats, such as CDs or digital downloads. While this license is not typically required for YouTube videos (which are audio-visual), it may be necessary if you're distributing music covers or remixes through streaming platforms or downloads.

In the U.S., mechanical licenses can be obtained through organizations like The Harry Fox Agency or through direct agreements with publishers.

Public Performance License

A public performance license grants the right to play music in public spaces or broadcast it over radio, TV, or digital streaming platforms. For YouTube creators, these licenses are typically handled by the platform itself, as YouTube has blanket performance licenses with most performance rights organizations (PROs) such as ASCAP, BMI, SESAC (U.S.), or PRS (UK).

However, this license does not replace the need for a sync license if you're editing the music into a video.

A print license is required to reproduce sheet music or print lyrics. While not commonly relevant to most video creators, it's essential for those who create music tutorials or lyric videos. If you display lyrics or visual musical notation in your content, you may need this license from the publisher.

Blanket License

A blanket license gives the licensee broad permissions to use an entire catalog of music owned or represented by a particular organization for a specified period. These are commonly used by broadcasters and institutions with frequent music usage needs.

Some royalty-free music libraries offer blanket licenses for creators, enabling them to use any track in the catalog without negotiating individual rights each time.

Royalty-Free License

Royalty-free music often causes confusion. It does not necessarily mean the music is free, but rather that the user pays a one-time fee (or subscription) to use the music without paying ongoing royalties per use. These licenses are ideal for YouTube creators because they are cost-effective and legally secure for repeated use.

Platforms like Epidemic Sound, Artlist, and AudioJungle offer royalty-free music under clear licensing terms suitable for content creators.

Creative Commons Licenses

Creative Commons (CC) licenses allow creators to use music with specific conditions set by the original artist. There are several types of CC licenses:

  • CC BY: Must credit the creator.
  • CC BY-SA: Must credit and share adaptations under the same license.
  • CC BY-ND: No derivatives or remixing allowed.
  • CC BY-NC: Non-commercial use only.
  • CC0: No rights reserved; music is in the public domain.

Always check the individual license terms before using Creative Commons music to ensure compliance.

Custom License Agreements

Some artists or music libraries offer custom licenses that are negotiated on a case-by-case basis. These agreements can specify unique usage rights, such as exclusive use, territory restrictions, or time limitations. Custom licenses are common for brands, advertising campaigns, or high-budget productions seeking unique audio assets.

Key Takeaways

  • Using copyrighted music on platforms like YouTube requires proper licensing to avoid copyright claims.
  • Sync and master licenses are most relevant for video content.
  • Royalty-free and Creative Commons music offer accessible alternatives but must still be used according to their terms.
  • YouTube's Content ID system can detect unauthorized use, making it crucial to secure the appropriate licenses before uploading content.

Understanding the legal ways to use music is essential for content creators who want to avoid copyright infringement while producing high-quality videos. Below are the most common and reliable legal avenues to use music in your content.

Obtain Licenses from Rights Holders

One of the most secure ways to use copyrighted music is by obtaining a license directly from the rights holders. This may include:

  • Master rights from the owner of the recording, usually a record label
  • Synchronization rights to use the music in timed relation with video
  • Mechanical rights if you're reproducing the music in any physical or digital format

Licenses can be obtained through agencies, music publishers, or directly from the artist or record label. Always ensure that the license explicitly covers your intended use, such as commercial publishing on YouTube.

Use Royalty-Free Music

Royalty-free music is a popular legal option for creators. When you purchase or download royalty-free music, you pay a one-time fee or no fee at all, and you're granted the right to use the music under certain conditions. These conditions are typically outlined in a license agreement and may include:

  • Unlimited use in YouTube videos
  • Commercial rights
  • Global distribution rights

Popular royalty-free music platforms include:

  • Epidemic Sound
  • Artlist
  • AudioJungle
  • PremiumBeat
  • Incompetech

Always review the license terms, as "royalty-free" does not mean "free of restrictions."

Utilize Creative Commons Licensed Music

Creative Commons (CC) licenses allow artists to share their music under specific conditions. There are multiple types of CC licenses, each with different permissions:

  • CC BY: Requires attribution
  • CC BY-NC: Non-commercial use only
  • CC BY-SA: Requires attribution and share-alike distribution

Websites such as Free Music Archive, Jamendo, and ccMixter offer music under Creative Commons licenses. Always check the specific license and provide proper attribution as required.

Use Music in the Public Domain

Music in the public domain is free to use without seeking permission or paying royalties because its copyright has expired or the creator has willingly released it into the public domain. This includes:

  • Classical music compositions like those by Bach, Mozart, or Beethoven (note: only the compositions, not modern recordings)
  • Folk songs and traditional music with no known copyright holders

Reliable sources for public domain music include Musopen and the Library of Congress.

Use YouTube Audio Library

YouTube offers its own library of music and sound effects that are free to use in YouTube videos. The YouTube Audio Library contains both public domain and royalty-free tracks with clear licensing terms. Some tracks may require attribution. This is one of the safest ways to include music in your YouTube videos without risking a copyright claim.

Work with Custom Composers

Hiring a music composer or commissioning original music is another legal method. This ensures full ownership or clear usage rights. Many content creators work with freelance musicians or use platforms like Fiverr and SoundBetter to obtain custom scores that are unique and copyright-free.

Use Music Under Fair Use (With Caution)

In limited cases, using copyrighted music without permission may fall under the "fair use" doctrine. This is typically applicable when the music is used for:

  • Commentary or criticism
  • Parody
  • News reporting
  • Educational purposes

However, fair use is not a guaranteed defense and can only be determined by courts. YouTube may still flag or remove your video, so this route carries legal risk and should be used cautiously.

Secure Music Through Licensing Agencies

Several agencies specialize in securing music rights for creators. These include:

  • ASCAP, BMI, SESAC (for performance rights)
  • Harry Fox Agency (for mechanical rights)
  • Musicbed or Songtradr (for sync licenses)

These agencies can help you legally obtain the permissions needed for various types of music usage, especially for commercial or large-scale projects.

Maintain Documentation and Permissions

Regardless of how you acquire the music, it is crucial to maintain documented proof of your rights to use it. This includes:

  • Licensing agreements
  • Email correspondence with rights holders
  • Invoices for purchased music
  • Screenshots of license terms at the time of download

Having this documentation can help you dispute wrongful claims or Content ID matches on platforms like YouTube.

By following these legal methods, content creators can safely use music in their projects while protecting their channels from copyright strikes, demonetization, or takedown notices.

Best Practices and Protection

To avoid copyright infringement on YouTube, creators should always use music with a clearly defined license. This includes:

  • Royalty-Free Music: These tracks are often available through platforms like Epidemic Sound, Artlist, or AudioJungle. They require a one-time fee or subscription and can be used in monetized videos.
  • Creative Commons Licensed Music: Some artists release their music under Creative Commons (CC) licenses, which can permit free use under certain conditions (e.g., attribution, non-commercial use). Always check the specific license terms on platforms like Free Music Archive or Jamendo.
  • Public Domain Music: Music in the public domain is free to use without permission or payment. However, confirm both the composition and recording are public domain, as some modern recordings of public domain songs may still be copyrighted.

Obtain Proper Documentation and Permissions

Creators should secure written permission or retain license documentation for any music they use. This protects against future claims and can be essential if disputing a Content ID claim on YouTube. Best practices include:

  • Saving receipts or license agreements
  • Keeping emails or contracts from composers or rights holders
  • Recording the source and terms of use for each track used

Many creators mistakenly believe they are safe if they:

  • Use only a few seconds of a song
  • Add disclaimers like “No copyright infringement intended”
  • Alter the pitch or speed of a track

These actions do not protect against copyright claims. YouTube’s Content ID can still detect and block or monetize altered audio. Always assume music is protected unless verified otherwise.

Monitor and Manage Content Claims

YouTube provides tools for managing music usage:

  • Content ID Matches: If you receive a claim, review the details in YouTube Studio. If you have rights to the music, you may dispute the claim with supporting evidence.
  • YouTube Audio Library: Offers a collection of free music and sound effects, many of which are safe for monetization. Always read the attribution requirements before use.

Respect Fair Use with Caution

Fair use is complex and context-dependent. It may allow limited use of copyrighted music for purposes like commentary, criticism, or education. However, fair use is not a guaranteed protection and often requires legal interpretation. Use with caution and consider seeking legal advice when in doubt.

Regularly Review Platform Policies

YouTube’s copyright and monetization policies can change. Stay informed by:

  • Reviewing YouTube’s Help Center and Creator Academy
  • Subscribing to YouTube’s official creator updates
  • Following trusted legal and digital rights resources

Conduct a Risk Assessment Before Uploading

Before publishing videos containing music, evaluate:

  • Whether the music is licensed or cleared
  • The commercial nature of the video
  • The likelihood of Content ID detection
  • The potential revenue implications of copyright claims

By applying a risk-based approach, creators can make informed decisions and avoid unintentional violations.

Maintain Professional Credibility

Using authorized music enhances your channel’s credibility and professionalism. It also builds trust with your audience and potential brand partners, increasing your opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Following these best practices not only helps you comply with copyright laws but also ensures your content remains safe, monetizable, and aligned with YouTube’s guidelines.

Always assume a song is copyrighted unless you can verify otherwise. Use the tools and methods above to confirm a song’s legal status and avoid costly copyright issues. Whenever possible, choose royalty-free or Creative Commons-licensed music to ensure full creative freedom. Protect your content—and your credibility—by staying legally compliant. Explore reliable music libraries, get proper licenses, and keep documentation to dispute claims when needed.