How to Use Copyrighted Music on TikTok Without Risk

Bailey Lane

·October 17, 2024

·6 min read

Using copyrighted music on TikTok can lead to your content being muted or removed, and in some cases, it could even lead to legal trouble. However, there are ways to legally use music on the platform without risking violations. Below, we explore several methods to help you avoid these risks and still enjoy using popular tracks in your videos.

Understanding Copyright Laws on TikTok

Before diving into strategies, it's essential to understand how copyright laws apply to platforms like TikTok. Copyrighted material, including music, is legally protected by the creator or rights holder, meaning that the use of such material without proper permission or licensing can lead to violations. TikTok has agreements with many record labels, allowing users to access a library of music for personal and creative use, but this doesn’t always mean free reign.

For businesses and influencers, especially those creating content for commercial purposes, these general agreements may not cover your needs. You need to take additional precautions to ensure you are following the rules.

Methods to Safely Use Music on TikTok

1. Use TikTok’s Built-in Music Library

TikTok offers a wide range of music tracks directly available in its library, which have been licensed for use on the platform. Using these tracks is the safest and easiest way to avoid copyright violations. You can access TikTok’s library while creating a video, search for specific songs, and choose from trending music or curated playlists.

These songs are cleared for use within the platform and come without risk, as long as your videos remain personal and not commercial.

2. Use Royalty-Free Music

Another option is to use royalty-free music, which is music created by artists who have given permission for anyone to use their work without paying royalties. Many websites offer extensive libraries of royalty-free music, such as Epidemic Sound, Artlist, and AudioJungle. Some of these services may require a subscription fee, but they grant you the ability to use music freely across your content without risk.

Ensure the music you choose is licensed for social media platforms like TikTok, as different licensing agreements might apply depending on where you’re posting.

3. Purchase a License for Commercial Use

If you're creating TikTok content for commercial purposes—such as promoting your business, products, or services—you will need to obtain a proper license for the copyrighted music you want to use. This often involves purchasing a license from the music’s rights holder. Websites like ASCAP, BMI, or PRS for Music offer ways to obtain the necessary licenses for commercial use.

When licensing music, make sure it covers use on social media platforms to avoid any future claims.

4. Use Original Music

Creating your own music for TikTok is a foolproof way to avoid copyright claims. This not only gives you complete control over your content but also eliminates the need for external permissions. If you're not a musician, you can collaborate with creators who produce original tracks, commission a musician, or use music composition tools to create simple beats and melodies.

With original music, you can freely use your sound for any personal or commercial purposes on TikTok without worrying about copyright strikes.

5. Partner with Independent Artists

Many independent artists are happy to collaborate with TikTok creators to have their music featured in videos. You can reach out to artists directly, ask for permission, or arrange a collaboration where you promote their music in exchange for use in your content. This mutually beneficial relationship can provide you with fresh, unique sounds while helping indie artists gain exposure.

Always make sure the terms of this collaboration are clear, and that permission is granted in writing to avoid any future misunderstandings.

6. Use Music from Public Domain

Music in the public domain is free to use, as the copyright protection has expired or never existed. Classical music pieces, for example, are often part of the public domain. You can find many of these works online, and they are safe to use for both personal and commercial purposes on TikTok.

Ensure that the specific recording you are using is also free of copyright claims, as modern performances of public domain works may still be protected by copyright.

7. Create a Mashup or Remix

Creating a remix or mashup of a song is a creative way to sidestep copyright issues, but it doesn’t guarantee full protection. TikTok often allows remixes or transformations of popular songs under fair use laws, but this depends on how much the new creation differs from the original work. If you’re significantly altering the music and adding your original elements, it may be covered under fair use, but it’s always a gray area. When in doubt, consult legal advice to ensure compliance.

Risks of Using Copyrighted Music Without Permission

Using copyrighted music without permission on TikTok could lead to several consequences:

Muted Videos: TikTok may automatically detect the copyrighted track and mute your video, removing the audio.
Content Takedown: Videos that violate copyright laws can be taken down by TikTok or the rights holders.
Account Suspension: Repeated copyright violations could result in warnings or suspensions of your TikTok account.
Legal Action: In severe cases, using copyrighted music without proper permissions can lead to lawsuits or financial penalties, especially if the content is used commercially.

Best Practices to Avoid Copyright Issues on TikTok

To reduce the risk of copyright violations, follow these best practices:

Always use music from TikTok’s library or royalty-free platforms.
Check the licensing agreement for any music you want to use commercially.
Consider creating original music or collaborating with artists to gain the appropriate permissions.
If in doubt, consult with a copyright expert or legal advisor to ensure you’re in compliance with all regulations.

Conclusion

Using copyrighted music on TikTok without risking violations requires understanding the platform’s rules and using legal options like TikTok’s music library, royalty-free tracks, or licensed music. By following these steps, you can create engaging content while staying compliant with copyright laws. For creators who want a broader selection or unique sounds, reaching out to artists or using public domain music offers a great alternative.

For those seeking to boost their TikTok growth, explore PopularUp to expand your reach across platforms safely and effectively.