Royalty Free Music for Podcasts

Finding the right music for your podcast can set the mood, enhance your content, and keep your listeners engaged. But navigating licensing and finding high-quality, free options can be tricky.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect soundtrack:

Free Royalty-Free Podcast Music Providers

Click here for my favorite music provider

• Diverse Libraries, Simple Licensing
  • Free Music Archive: Vast selection across all genres under Creative Commons licenses (read the specific license for each track!).
  • Pixabay Music: User-created tracks are completely free.
  • Incompetech: Large library, free with attribution. Filter by genre and mood.
  • YouTube Audio Library: Various music and sound effects are organized by genre and mood.
  • Purple Planet: Rich library across genres and moods, free with attribution.
• Specialized Options
  • Freebeats.io: Focus on beats and instrumentals, perfect for modern/urban podcasts. Attribution is typically required.
  • Musopen: High-quality classical and instrumental music. Some tracks are public domain (completely free), others have specific licenses.
  • CCMixter: A community-driven platform with diverse music under Creative Commons licenses.
  • Silverman Sound Studios: High-quality tracks tailored for content creators, free with minimal licensing.
  • Audionautix: Large collection across genres, free with attribution.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Podcast Music:

• Licensing:
  • Always read the specific license for each track, even on “royalty-free” platforms.
  • Look for clear terms on attribution, commercial use, and modifications.
  • Understand Creative Commons licenses: they have varying levels of restrictions.
  • Creative Commons: This license allows creators to share their work with varying permissions. Look for Creative Commons Zero (CC0) for the most unrestricted use or licenses requiring attribution if you’re happy to credit the artist.
  • Public Domain: This music is no longer under copyright protection and is free for anyone to use, modify, or distribute.
• Ease of Use:
  • Can you easily search and download the music?
  • Is the library well-organized?
• Quality & Variety:
  • Does the platform offer high-quality music that fits your podcast’s style?
  • Is there enough variety to suit your needs?

Licensing is Extremely Important:

• • Attribution: When required, give proper credit to the artist (mention their name and the platform).
  • Explore each platform: Get a feel for its style and offerings.
  • Listen to samples: Ensure the music fits your podcast’s mood and tone.
  • Combine platforms: Access a wider variety of music.
  • Keep track of licensing info In case you need to reference it later.

Paid Royalty-Free Music Providers

Click here for my favorite royalty-free music library

• Audiojungle: Extensive library with professional-quality tracks. Paid service and requires additional licenses for multiple uses.
• Epidemic Sound: Vast library with comprehensive licensing for subscribers. Requires a monthly fee.
• PremiumBeat: Premium music with flexible licensing options. High cost and single-use licenses.
• Musicbed: Known for premium selection and a simple licensing process. Requires a subscription and has higher pricing.

Choosing the Right Podcast Music Provider:

• Budget: Determine if free or paid options are more suitable.
• Music Needs: Consider the genre, mood, and style that best fit your podcast.
• Licensing: Understand the terms for each provider, especially regarding attribution.
• Quality: Prioritize platforms known for high-quality tracks if your budget allows.

Choosing the Right Music for Your Podcast

• Genre and Mood: Align your music choices with your podcast’s theme and tone. A true-crime podcast might call for suspenseful music, while a comedy podcast might benefit from upbeat, quirky tunes.
• Target Audience: Consider the preferences of your listeners. What kind of music would they enjoy?
• Strategic Placement: Use music strategically to enhance your podcast’s structure. An energetic intro track can grab attention, while subtle background music can create an atmosphere.

Tips for Using Free Music in Your Podcast

• Give Credit: If a song requires attribution under its Creative Commons license, mention the artist and song title in your show notes or verbally in your podcast.
• Edit and Mix: Don’t just slap music onto your podcast. Take time to edit and mix it seamlessly with your voice and other elements.
• Double-Check Licenses: Always verify the license terms before using any music, even if it’s labeled as royalty-free.

Free Royalty-Free Music: Navigating the Landscape for Your Podcast (Monetized or Not)

The world of free royalty-free music offers a treasure trove of options to enhance your podcast. However, there are common misconceptions and crucial considerations to keep in mind, especially if you’re monetizing your show. Let’s delve into the realities of using royalty-free music and ensure your podcast stays on the right track legally and creatively.

Common Misconceptions:

• “Royalty-free” means no rules: While you avoid paying royalties each time you use the music, it doesn’t imply a free-for-all. Many tracks still require attribution or have restrictions, particularly concerning commercial use.
• All free music platforms are created equal: Each platform has its own licensing terms and quality standards. Don’t assume they’re all interchangeable.
• Monetization doesn’t change anything: If your podcast generates revenue through ads, sponsorships, or other means, the rules can change. Some “free” music might not be permitted for commercial use.

Key Considerations:

• Licensing is Paramount:

  • Scrutinize those terms! Even on “royalty-free” platforms, each track can have unique licensing conditions.
  • Pay close attention to requirements for attribution, commercial use, and modifications.
  • Understand Creative Commons licenses: they offer flexibility, but each type has its own nuances.

• Monetization Matters:

  • If you’re making money from your podcast, be extra cautious. Some free music might be restricted to non-commercial use.
  • Double-check licenses or consider paid options that explicitly allow commercial use.

• Quality & Variety:

  • Free doesn’t always mean low quality, but be discerning. Listen to samples to ensure the music aligns with your podcast’s professional image.
  • Explore various platforms to find the right mix of genres and moods that suit your content.

Navigating the Free Royalty-Free Music Landscape:

Here are some reliable resources, keeping monetization in mind:

• Diverse Libraries, Simple Licensing

  • Free Music Archive: Great variety, but double-check each track’s license for commercial use.
  • Pixabay Music: Generally safe for monetized podcasts, but always verify.
  • Incompetech: Free with attribution, including commercial use.
  • YouTube Audio Library: Check individual track licenses, some may be restricted.
  • Purple Planet: Offers licenses for commercial use.

• Specialized Options

  • Freebeats.io: Ideal for modern/urban podcasts, but attribution is typically required. Check commercial use terms.
  • Musopen: Some tracks are public domain (free for any use), others have specific licenses.
  • CCMixter: Diverse music, but carefully review each track’s Creative Commons license for commercial use allowances
  • Silverman Sound Studios: High-quality, free with minimal licensing, often suitable for commercial use.
  • Audionautix: Free with attribution, including commercial use.