How to Upload Your Purchased Music License on YouTube
Basil Simon, a musical life coach, discusses the process of uploading music with a purchased license to YouTube. Understanding the requirements and regulations will help YouTubers stay compliant and avoid any potential copyright issues.
Understanding Copyright Owners
The copyright owner will know that you have paid for the use of their music through their records. If they check their records and see the payment, they will likely not report any issues. This is why it’s important to ensure all payments are documented and accounted for.
Automated Monitoring and A.I. Technology
YouTube, like other platforms, employs advanced A.I. technology to identify popular tracks and check the current licensing status of those tracks. If a video is flagged, the system or the copyright owner can make a claim. In such cases, you would need to provide valid documentation of your license and compliance with the terms.
Documenting Your License
When you receive your license, it will often include detailed instructions on how to properly attribute the music. Typically, you will need to include the song title, the company that licensed it to you, and your license number if one is provided. This information should be listed at the bottom of your video description.
Automated systems may not always catch everything. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain complete records and documentation of your licenses. This way, you can quickly provide evidence if your video is flagged or a complaint is made.
Handling Copyright Claims
YouTube only requires formal documentation if your video is flagged by its ContentID system or if the song's copyright holder files a copyright infringement claim. In these cases, respond by submitting the necessary documentation to prove that you have the proper license.
What Is a License for a Song?
A license for a song is a legal agreement from the copyright holder or their agent, allowing you to use the song for specific purposes. This agreement can be in the form of a formal contract, a signed letter, or even a notice on a website. Many internet sites offer royalty-free licenses for songs, and even YouTube provides a library of free music for use in your videos.
Tracking Down Copyright Holders
If you want to use a particular song, you need to identify and contact the copyright holder. ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC are databases that maintain contact information for song copyright holders. If you cannot find the copyright holder through these organizations, PRS for Music, which represents composers, writers, and publishers, and PPL, representing performers and record companies, may be able to assist you.
Contacting Copyright Holders
To obtain a license, contact the copyright holder using a letter or email. Identify yourself, the song, and explain how it will be used. If your video is expected to have limited views, you might get permission to use the piece for free. However, if you plan to profit from or monetize your video, you may need to pay a fee.
For example, I recently negotiated with a musician to use one of his pieces as the soundtrack for a 1-minute commercial video. The cost was around 700. My company’s lawyer drafted a licensing agreement, which the musician signed.