Top 10 Sources for Copyright Free Music for Videos

1. YouTube Audio Library

The YouTube Audio Library is one of the most accessible resources for creators looking for copyright free music. Available to all YouTube users, this library offers a wide range of tracks and sound effects that can be used in any video project uploaded to the platform. The library is categorized by genre, mood, instrument, and duration, making it incredibly user-friendly. Furthermore, many tracks in the library are available for free, while some may require attribution.

To access the YouTube Audio Library, simply log in to your YouTube account, navigate to the 'Create' section, and select 'Audio Library.' From there, you can browse through thousands of tracks and sound effects. For creators looking to add a personal touch, the library allows you to filter by specific criteria, giving you the ability to find the perfect background music that matches the theme of your video.

Additionally, the Audio Library is regularly updated with new music, ensuring that you always have fresh options to choose from. If you find a track you love, downloading it is as simple as clicking the download button. Remember to check the licensing requirements for each track, especially if you are using it for commercial purposes.

2. Free Music Archive

The Free Music Archive (FMA) is another reputable source for free music that can be used in various projects, including videos. Curated by various music enthusiasts, the FMA provides access to a vast collection of high-quality, legal audio downloads. The platform features tracks across multiple genres, making it a versatile option for any creator looking to enhance their video content.

One of the standout features of FMA is its commitment to supporting independent artists, allowing them to share their music while giving creators the opportunity to find unique sounds that may not be available on mainstream platforms. Users can explore tracks by genre, charts, or even curators, which adds an element of discovery to the process of finding the perfect music.

Each track on the FMA comes with a clear licensing agreement that specifies how the music can be used. While many tracks are available for free use, some may require attribution or have restrictions on commercial use. Therefore, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the licensing terms before using a track in your video.

3. Incompetech

Incompetech, created by composer Kevin MacLeod, is a well-known platform for copyright free music, particularly popular among YouTube creators. The site hosts an extensive library of music that spans various genres, and all tracks are available for free under a Creative Commons license, provided that proper attribution is given. This makes it an excellent choice for creators looking for high-quality music without the hassle of complicated licensing agreements.

The site’s layout makes it easy to search for music by genre, mood, or feel, allowing users to quickly find what they need. Additionally, Incompetech features a unique feature that allows users to filter tracks by tempo, which can be particularly useful for video editing where timing is crucial. You can also listen to each track directly on the site before downloading, ensuring that you find the right fit for your project.

Another advantage of using Incompetech is the vast diversity of music styles available, from classical compositions to modern electronic beats. The clear licensing terms and the ability to use music without any financial cost make it a go-to resource for many video creators.

4. Bensound

Bensound is a popular site for royalty-free music, offering a wide selection of tracks that can be used in videos, podcasts, and other projects. The site features music across various genres, including acoustic, cinematic, corporate, and electronic. While the majority of tracks on Bensound are free to use with proper attribution, paid licenses are also available for those who want to use music without any restrictions.

The user interface of Bensound is intuitive, allowing users to browse through categories or search for specific tracks. Each track comes with a clear description of its mood and style, helping creators select music that aligns with their video’s theme. Moreover, Bensound updates its library regularly, ensuring that users have access to fresh content.

For those considering commercial projects, the pricing for Bensound’s licenses is reasonable, giving users the flexibility to choose the option that best suits their needs. This makes it an ideal resource for both amateur and professional creators looking to enhance their projects with high-quality music.

5. Artlist

Artlist stands out as a premium source for high-quality, royalty-free music, catering specifically to filmmakers and video creators. With a subscription model, Artlist provides unlimited downloads of its extensive library of tracks, which are curated to fit various moods and styles. This model works well for creators who frequently produce content and need access to a wide range of music without worrying about licensing issues.

One of the key features of Artlist is its user-friendly interface, which allows users to search for music based on specific criteria such as genre, mood, and instrument. This streamlined experience helps creators quickly find the perfect soundtrack for their projects. Additionally, all tracks come with a universal license that covers any use, including commercial projects, making it an excellent choice for businesses and professional creators.

Artlist also offers a unique 'Editor’s Choice' section, highlighting top tracks handpicked by industry professionals, ensuring that users can discover trending music that resonates with their audience. While Artlist requires a subscription fee, many users find that the quality and accessibility of the music justify the cost.

6. Epidemic Sound

Epidemic Sound is a well-known platform that offers a vast library of royalty-free music specifically designed for content creators. This subscription-based service allows users to access thousands of high-quality tracks across various genres, making it an excellent resource for video producers looking for professional-grade music. Epidemic Sound is particularly popular among YouTubers and filmmakers due to its ease of use and comprehensive licensing options.

With Epidemic Sound, users can browse through curated playlists, search for tracks by mood or genre, and even explore sound effects, all within a user-friendly interface. One of the standout features is the exclusive music created by Epidemic’s in-house composers, which ensures that users have access to unique sounds that cannot be found anywhere else. The platform also offers a free trial period, allowing potential subscribers to test the service before committing.

Licensing with Epidemic Sound is straightforward, as the subscription covers all usage rights, including monetization of videos. This makes it a top choice for creators who want to ensure their projects remain compliant with copyright laws while having access to high-quality music that enhances their storytelling.

7. SoundCloud

SoundCloud is a popular platform for music sharing that also offers a treasure trove of copyright free tracks suitable for video projects. Many independent artists upload their work to SoundCloud, and some allow their music to be used under Creative Commons licenses, making it a great resource for discovering unique sounds. Users can easily filter their search to find tracks that are available for use in videos, but it’s crucial to check the licensing terms for each track before using them.

The vast array of genres and styles on SoundCloud means that creators can find music that is not only copyright free but also aligns with their specific needs. Users can follow artists they like, create playlists, and engage with the community, which adds an interactive element to the music discovery process.

However, because SoundCloud is a platform with a mix of copyrighted and copyright-free music, creators need to be diligent in verifying licensing terms for each track. This can potentially lead to a more complicated process, but the rewards of finding original and fresh music can be worth the effort.

8. PremiumBeat

PremiumBeat is a go-to resource for filmmakers and content creators seeking high-quality, royalty-free music. The platform offers a carefully curated library of tracks that are specifically designed for media projects, ensuring that users have access to professional-grade sound. With a straightforward licensing model, PremiumBeat allows users to download and use music in their videos without worrying about copyright issues.

PremiumBeat’s intuitive search functionality lets users filter tracks by genre, mood, instrument, and even library collections, making it easy to find the perfect track for any video project. Additionally, each track includes a detailed description that provides insight into its mood and style, helping creators make informed decisions.

While PremiumBeat does charge for its music, many users find that the quality and selection available justify the cost. The platform is particularly appealing for those working on commercial projects, as the licensing is clear and covers a wide range of usage scenarios.

9. Jamendo

Jamendo is a vibrant community of independent artists offering a diverse selection of copyright free music. The platform allows users to explore thousands of tracks across various genres, which can be utilized in a variety of creative projects, including videos. Jamendo operates on a freemium model, where artists can choose to offer their music for free or under specific licensing terms, making it a versatile option for creators.

Users can easily navigate through the site to find music that fits their project’s mood or theme. Additionally, Jamendo features playlists and charts that highlight popular tracks, helping creators discover trending music. The clear licensing agreements make it straightforward for users to understand how they can use the music, whether for personal or commercial purposes.

For those looking to support independent artists while finding great music for their projects, Jamendo is an excellent choice. The platform fosters a sense of community among creators and artists, making it a unique space for music discovery.

10. ccMixter

ccMixter is a collaborative music platform where musicians share their creations and remixes under Creative Commons licenses. This makes it a unique source for copyright free music that is not only original but also diverse in style and genre. Users can browse through a vast library of tracks, remixes, and samples, making it easy to find the right fit for their video projects.

One of the standout features of ccMixter is its community-driven approach, allowing users to interact with artists, remix tracks, and contribute to the music pool. This collaborative environment fosters creativity and gives creators access to a range of unique sounds that can elevate their projects.

Before using any music from ccMixter, it’s essential to check the licensing terms, as some tracks may require attribution or have restrictions on commercial use. However, the platform’s emphasis on collaboration and creativity makes it a valuable resource for video creators looking to enhance their content with original music.