How to Bypass Copyright on YouTube

  • 24 October 2024
  • 6 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

Did you know? Bypassing copyright on YouTube is considered illegal! But you can always avoid copyright issues using ethical and legal alternatives that many others are using to get around copyright issues. In this guide, you will learn safe and legal ways to use copyrighted content without violating YouTube's rules.

Here are some methods you can use:

Method 1: Use Royalty-Free or Creative Commons Content

  1. Platforms like Pexels, Pixabay, Epidemic Sound, and Free Music Archive offer free or paid royalty-free content (music, videos, images).
  2. Some content creators allow you to use their work under a Creative Commons license, which might only require you to credit them.
  3. Once you find the music or video you like, download it.
  4. If using Creative Commons content, make sure to follow the license conditions, such as giving credit in your video description.

Method 2: Apply for a License or Permission

  1. Find the copyright owner by checking the video's description or searching online.
  2. Send an email or message to the content owner, requesting permission to use their work in your video.
  3. If they agree, they may ask you to pay a fee or follow specific conditions (such as giving credit).
  4. Once permission is granted, you can legally use the material in your YouTube video without fear of copyright strikes.

Method 3: Use YouTube’s Audio Library

  1. Log in to your YouTube account and go to YouTube Studio.
  2. On the left-hand menu, scroll down to find the Audio Library section.
  3. The Audio Library contains thousands of royalty-free songs and sound effects.
  4. Once you find a track you like, download it.
  5. Use the downloaded music in your video, knowing it’s completely free to use and will not trigger copyright claims.

Method 4: Fair Use (For Commentary or Criticism)

  1. You can use small parts of someone else’s content if you're adding something new, like giving your opinion, reviewing, or making a parody.
  2. Only use short pieces of the original content, just enough to make your point.
  3. Make sure your video changes the original by adding your thoughts, explanations, or creativity.
  4. It's not required, but it’s a good idea to mention where the original content came from.
  5. Avoid using too much of the original content, as this can still get flagged.

Method 5: Join the YouTube Partner Program and Use Licensed Music

  1. When your channel has 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, you can apply to join the program.
  2. Once you're approved, YouTube gives you access to music you can use in your videos without worrying about copyright issues.
  3. Make sure you follow YouTube's rules for using the licensed music properly.

By following these methods, you can avoid copyright issues on YouTube and keep your content safe from strikes or takedowns. If you wish to download should open. In the lower right corner of the browser, click the Download icon.

More to explore in YouTube guides:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Plus

    You can avoid copyright strikes by using royalty-free content, Creative Commons-licensed material, or purchasing a license for copyrighted works.

  • Plus

    If you get a copyright strike, your video can be removed, and if you accumulate multiple strikes, your account could be terminated.

  • Can I use a small part of a song without getting copyrighted?

    Plus

    Even using a short part of a song can still get you a copyright claim unless it fits under fair use, which is not always clear.

  • Plus

    Fair use allows limited use of copyrighted material for commentary, education, or parody, but it's subjective and not always a guarantee of protection.

  • Where can I find free music for my YouTube videos?

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    You can find free music in YouTube’s Audio Library, or from royalty-free music websites like Epidemic Sound or AudioJungle.

In Conclusion 

While bypassing copyright is not recommended, there are several legal and ethical ways to avoid copyright issues on YouTube. By using content from Creative Commons, royalty-free resources, or licensing material, you can keep your channel safe from copyright strikes.