How to Monetize Your YouTube Videos That Contain Someone Else's Music in 2025
Published on: September 2025 | Source: AdsensMobile
For many content creators, using popular music in YouTube videos seems like a surefire way to boost views and engagement. But there's a big catch – copyright rules. YouTube’s strict policies around music rights often block monetization if your video contains someone else’s music. The question on every creator's mind is: can you monetize videos with copyrighted music in 2025? The short answer is: yes, but with important conditions.
Understanding YouTube's Copyright and Content ID System
YouTube's Content ID system is designed to detect copyrighted material, especially music. When you upload a video, Content ID automatically scans for any registered audio or video content. If it finds a match, several things can happen:
- Monetization Claim: The copyright owner chooses to monetize the video by running ads and collecting revenue.
- Blocked Video: The video is blocked from being viewed.
- Video Muted: The audio containing copyrighted content is muted.
Because of this system, simply uploading a popular track into your video won't guarantee monetization rights.
Is Monetizing with Copyrighted Music Even Possible?
Yes, but the path is complex. The options available to creators depend on various factors, such as licensing, fair use provisions, or partnering with content owners.
1. License the Music Legally
The safest way to monetize a video containing copyrighted music is to obtain a proper license from the copyright owner or an authorized distributor. Websites such as Epidemic Sound, Audiio, and Artlist offer music libraries with licenses specifically designed for YouTube monetization.
Tip: Always check the licensing agreement to ensure it covers commercial use and monetization on YouTube.
2. Use Royalty-Free Music
Royalty-free music is a growing industry. Platforms like Bensound and Incompetech allow creators to use music tracks either for free or a one-time fee, usually with attribution required.
3. Fair Use Doctrine – Proceed with Caution
The concept of fair use allows limited use of copyrighted content for commentary, criticism, news reporting, or educational purposes. However, fair use is highly subjective and determined case-by-case in court.
Important: Relying on fair use to monetize videos is risky and may result in Content ID claims. A strong fair use argument involves adding significant original content and commentary rather than simply reposting a song with visuals.
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4. Work with Licensed YouTube Partner Programs
YouTube partners often have deals with music publishers to allow monetization of videos using popular music. If you're part of the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), you might have access to such benefits, but this depends on your agreements.
How to Check if Your Video Contains Copyrighted Music
Before publishing, use YouTube’s YouTube Studio to run a copyright check:
- Upload your video as "Unlisted" or "Private".
- Once uploaded, YouTube will process it and show you any copyright claims.
- Review the Content ID claims and decide whether to remove the audio, mute the music, or dispute the claim (if you believe you have a valid right).
Disputing Content ID Claims: What You Need to Know
If you believe your use of music is covered under fair use or you hold a license, you can file a dispute. YouTube provides a structured process:
- Step 1: Click “Dispute” on the copyright claim in YouTube Studio.
- Step 2: Provide detailed reasoning, attach proof of license, and explain fair use application if applicable.
- Step 3: Wait for the claimant to respond, which may take up to 30 days.
Note: Filing false disputes can harm your channel reputation.
Leveraging YouTube’s Music Policies Database
YouTube maintains a Music Policies Database that lists songs and their copyright restrictions. Before using a track, search this database to check whether:
- The song is allowed for monetization.
- The song will block your video in some regions.
- The song will mute audio in your video.
Alternative Strategies for Music Inclusion
1. Collaborate with Independent Artists
Collaborating with independent artists gives you access to fresh tracks while establishing licensing terms upfront. You get creative freedom and avoid Content ID headaches.
2. Create Original Music
If you're musically inclined or can hire composers, creating original tracks ensures full control over the rights and avoids claims. Services like Fiverr have affordable options for custom music production.
3. Use YouTube’s Audio Library
YouTube offers a free Audio Library where creators can find royalty-free music tracks and sound effects to use without worrying about copyright.
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Best Practices to Stay Compliant and Monetize Safely
- Always Read the Fine Print: Ensure licenses cover YouTube monetization.
- Give Proper Attribution: Some royalty-free licenses require crediting the creator in the video description.
- Keep Documentation: Save license agreements, correspondence, or receipts.
- Avoid Misleading Titles: Don't imply ownership of popular music tracks.
How Monetization Affects Your Revenue
If your video is monetized by the copyright holder via Content ID, you may not earn revenue – the copyright owner does. However, properly licensed content or original tracks allow you to keep full earnings.
Conclusion: Make Smart Choices in 2025
Monetizing YouTube videos with someone else’s music is tricky but doable if you follow the right strategies. Whether it's licensing music legally, using royalty-free content, or creating original tracks, ensuring compliance helps you build a sustainable revenue stream. Always stay updated with YouTube’s latest policies, especially as regulations evolve in 2025.
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