Tired of YouTube copyright strikes killing your video’s reach and revenue? Learning how to use copyrighted music on YouTube legally lets you add popular tracks without fear. This guide delivers proven methods to stay compliant, save time, and boost your channel in 2026.
Why You Need to Use Copyrighted Music on YouTube Legally Right Now
YouTube’s Content ID system flags 90% of uploads with popular songs instantly, leading to demonetization or takedowns—over 5 billion claims processed yearly. In 2026, stricter AI enforcement under updated DMCA rules demands legal use of copyrighted music on YouTube to protect earnings. Creators who license properly see 3x higher retention and ad revenue.
Method 1: Get Direct Permission – PC/Android
Step 1: Identify copyright holders
Search the song on YouTube’s Audio Library or ASCAP/BMI databases—note publishers, labels, and artists listed.
Step 2: Contact via email/form
Use official sites like record label contacts or publisher portals; request a sync license with video details and usage terms.
Step 3: Negotiate and pay fee
Agree on terms (often $50-500), sign contract, and receive written permission email or PDF.
Step 4: Document and dispute claims
Upload video privately first; if flagged, file dispute with license proof in YouTube Studio.
Pro Tip: Use unlisted test uploads to verify clearance before going public
Method 2: License via Marketplace App – Mobile/PC
- Download Lickd or Epidemic Sound app from Play Store/App Store.
- Search for tracks, select “Mainstream” filter, and purchase license ($8-50 per track with unlimited YouTube use).
- Download cleared audio file and import to YouTube editor or CapCut.
- Export video and upload—license auto-syncs with Content ID.
Method 3: Sync License for Pros – Desktop
Secure master recording license from label and composition sync from publisher; bundle via platforms like Soundstripe for multi-owner clearance; integrate via Adobe Premiere with metadata.
Best Use Copyrighted Music Legally Tools Comparison (2026)
| Tool/Method | Cost | Quality | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Permission | $50+ | Perfect Match | Slowest | Specific Songs |
| Lickd | $8/track | Best | Fast | Mainstream Hits |
| Epidemic Sound | $15/mo | Great | Fast | Unlimited Videos |
| Soundstripe | $9.99/mo | Good | Medium | Pro Editing |
Pro Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
- Start with WiFi – saves mobile data instantly
- Mistake: Ignoring multi-owner rights Fix: Check all publishers via ASCAP; get blanket clearance to avoid partial claims—test private first.
- Quality tip: Always choose 320kbps MP3 for crisp results
- India/Jorhat tip: Use JioFiber for faster license downloads during peak hours
- Batch process: License 10 tracks monthly via subscription for bulk video production
- SEO bonus: Add “legal music clearance 2026” to titles for creator searches
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use copyrighted music on YouTube legally for free?
A: Yes! Method 1 uses YouTube’s dispute process with proof—no apps needed.
Q: Does this work on Android/iPhone/PC?
A: Yes—Lickd app on mobile, web portals on PC.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: 30 seconds to 5 minutes for app licenses; 1-7 days for direct permission depending on response.
Q: Is this method safe/legal?
A: Fully legal with licenses; always keep receipts and dispute claims promptly—avoids strikes.
Q: What’s the best quality setting for use copyrighted music on YouTube?
A: 44.1kHz WAV—matches YouTube specs for no compression artifacts