Unlicensed Music in Content: Legal Risks and How to Avoid Them
Stephen Neimeier via Pexels
Music plays a significant role in enhancing online content, whether it's a catchy tune in the background of a TikTok video or a dramatic score accompanying a YouTube vlog. For influencers and content creators on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, the right music can elevate your content and captivate your audience.
However, using music without proper licensing comes with serious legal risks that can jeopardize your hard work and even lead to financial losses. Here’s what you need to know about unlicensed music and how to stay on the right side of the law.
The Legal Risks of Using Unlicensed Music
Copyright Infringement: Music is protected under copyright law, meaning the creator owns the rights to their work. Using someone else’s music without permission constitutes copyright infringement. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube use advanced algorithms to detect copyrighted music, which can result in immediate action against your content.
Content Removal: Social media platforms are vigilant about copyright compliance. If copyrighted music is detected in your content, it may be muted, taken down, or flagged. Repeated violations can lead to account suspension or bans.
Monetary Penalties: Copyright owners can file claims against you, demanding compensation for unauthorized use. These penalties can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands, depending on the infringement's severity and the music's popularity.
Breach of Contract: Many brand deals and sponsorship agreements include clauses requiring creators to comply with copyright laws. Using unlicensed music can violate these agreements, leading to contract breaches and potential termination of partnerships. This could result in loss of income and harm to your professional relationships.
Damage to Reputation: As an influencer, your credibility is crucial. Copyright disputes or publicized legal battles can tarnish your brand and discourage potential collaborations or sponsorships.
How to Avoid Legal Issues with Music
Use Royalty-Free Music: Royalty-free music platforms like Epidemic Sound, Artlist, or AudioJungle offer tracks you can legally use for a one-time fee or subscription. These services grant you licenses to use the music in your content without worrying about copyright claims.
Check Platform-Specific Libraries: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok provide their own music libraries, which include tracks licensed for use on their platforms. Using music from these libraries increase the chance compliance and avoids legal complications.
Obtain Proper Licensing: If you want to use a popular track, contact the copyright owner or a licensing agency to obtain the necessary permissions. Licensing fees vary but are essential for staying compliant.
Create Your Own Music: If you or someone in your network has musical talent, consider creating original music for your content. This not only avoids legal risks but also gives your brand a unique sound.
Attribute Correctly: For tracks under Creative Commons licenses, ensure you adhere to the license terms, such as providing proper attribution or using the track non-commercially.
Staying Proactive
Understanding and respecting copyright laws is a critical part of being a responsible content creator. By taking the time to secure the rights to the music you use, you’ll not only protect yourself from legal risks but also build a professional reputation that attracts brands and collaborators. Make music compliance a priority, and you’ll be free to create content that resonates—legally and ethically—with your audience.