How to Check if a Song is Copyrighted on YouTube
In today’s digital age, the use of music in videos has become increasingly common. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the music you’re using is not copyrighted, as using copyrighted material without permission can lead to legal consequences. YouTube, being one of the largest video-sharing platforms, has strict copyright policies in place. In this article, we will discuss how to check if a song is copyrighted on YouTube and what steps you can take to avoid copyright infringement.
1. Use YouTube’s Audio Library
YouTube offers a vast collection of royalty-free music in its Audio Library. This library contains songs that are specifically designed for use in videos without the risk of copyright infringement. To access the Audio Library, simply go to the YouTube website, click on the “Create” button, and select “Audio Library” from the menu. From there, you can search for songs by genre, mood, or artist and download them for use in your videos.
2. Search for the Song on YouTube
Before using a song in your video, it’s essential to search for it on YouTube. Type the song’s title into the search bar and look for official music videos or channels that have the song. If you find multiple videos with the same song, it’s likely that the song is not copyrighted. However, be cautious as some artists may have given permission to various channels to use their music.
3. Check the Video’s Description
If you find a video with the song you want to use, check the video’s description for any copyright information. Some creators may explicitly state that their video contains copyrighted music and that they have obtained the necessary permissions. This can be a good indication that the song is not copyrighted and can be used in your video.
4. Use a Copyright Check Tool
There are various online tools and services available that can help you determine if a song is copyrighted. These tools typically analyze the audio file and compare it to a database of copyrighted songs. While these tools can be helpful, they may not always be accurate, and it’s still essential to use your best judgment.
5. Contact the Artist or Rights Holder
If you’re unsure about the copyright status of a song, it’s best to err on the side of caution and contact the artist or rights holder. You can usually find contact information on the artist’s official website or social media profiles. By reaching out to them, you can obtain permission to use the song in your video.
6. Use a Music Licensing Service
For those who frequently use music in their videos, a music licensing service can be a valuable resource. These services offer a wide range of songs that are available for licensing, allowing you to use the music in your videos without the risk of copyright infringement. Some popular music licensing services include Epidemic Sound, AudioJungle, and Artlist.
In conclusion, it’s essential to be aware of the copyright status of the music you use in your videos on YouTube. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you’re using copyrighted music responsibly and avoiding legal issues. Always prioritize obtaining the necessary permissions or using royalty-free music to stay on the safe side.
