Getting your music into the YouTube Audio Library can significantly boost your exposure and provide a royalty-free licensing option for creators. This guide outlines the process and considerations for getting your tracks accepted. It's a fantastic way to gain a wider audience and potentially earn revenue through YouTube's Content ID system.
Understanding the YouTube Audio Library
The YouTube Audio Library is a curated collection of music and sound effects that are free to use in videos, subject to YouTube's terms and conditions. This means YouTubers can use your music without incurring copyright strikes or needing to pay royalties directly to you. However, you will still earn revenue through YouTube's Content ID system, which identifies your music being used and distributes royalties to you based on usage.
Benefits of Inclusion
- Increased Exposure: Your music reaches a vast audience of YouTube creators and viewers.
- Royalty-Free Licensing: Creators can use your music without worrying about copyright infringement.
- Revenue Generation: You earn royalties through YouTube's Content ID system when your music is used.
- Enhanced Credibility: Inclusion builds trust and credibility as a musician.
Eligibility Requirements
Before submitting your music, ensure it meets YouTube's strict criteria:
- High-Quality Audio: Your tracks must be professionally produced and mastered with excellent sound quality. Low-quality or amateur recordings will likely be rejected.
- Original Music: Only original compositions are eligible. Cover songs and derivative works are generally not accepted.
- Clear Ownership Rights: You must own the copyright to the music you submit.
- Compliance with YouTube's Terms of Service: Familiarize yourself with YouTube's guidelines and ensure your music aligns with their standards. This includes avoiding hate speech, offensive content, etc.
The Submission Process (Indirect Route – Via a Music Distributor)
Unfortunately, there's no direct application process to add your music to the YouTube Audio Library. Instead, you need to work through a reputable music distributor. These distributors have partnerships with YouTube and handle the submission process on your behalf. They typically offer other distribution services too, such as placing your music on Spotify, Apple Music and other major platforms.
Choosing a Music Distributor
Research various music distributors and compare their services, fees, and royalty splits. Look for distributors with a proven track record of successfully placing music in the YouTube Audio Library. Consider factors such as:
- Royalty Rates: How much of the revenue generated will you receive?
- Distribution Reach: Does the distributor offer distribution to other platforms besides YouTube?
- Customer Support: What kind of support do they offer to their artists?
- Transparency: How transparent are they about their processes and earnings?
Optimizing Your Music for Success
Even with a good distributor, proper preparation is key to increasing your chances of acceptance.
- Professional Mastering: Ensure your tracks are professionally mastered to meet the high-quality standards required.
- Accurate Metadata: Provide accurate and comprehensive metadata, including song titles, artist names, ISRC codes, and genre information.
- Compelling Tracks: Create music that is engaging, original, and diverse.
Monitoring Your Music's Performance
Once your music is distributed, monitor its performance through your distributor's dashboard or YouTube Analytics (if your distributor provides access). Track the number of uses, listens, and overall revenue generated.
Conclusion
Getting your music into the YouTube Audio Library is a valuable step for any musician seeking wider exposure and potential revenue. While there's no direct route, partnering with a reputable music distributor is the most effective method. Remember to prioritize high-quality production, accurate metadata, and compliance with YouTube’s guidelines to increase your chances of acceptance and maximize your earnings.
