Public Domain vs Royalty-Free: Key Music Differences Explained.
When choosing music for your project, it’s important to understand the differences between public domain, royalty-free, and copyright-free music. Misusing these terms can lead to legal issues, copyright claims, or unexpected licensing fees. This guide will help you navigate the differences so you can confidently select the right music for your needs.
What is Public Domain Music?
Public domain music consists of works that are no longer protected by copyright. This can happen when the copyright expires or when the creator voluntarily places their work in the public domain.
How Does Music Enter the Public Domain?
- Copyright Expiration – In most countries, copyright lasts 70 years after the composer’s death, but this varies (e.g., 50 years in some regions).
- Creator Release – Some artists release their music directly into the public domain, allowing free use by anyone.
Can Public Domain Music Be Used Commercially?
Yes! You can use public domain music for commercial projects, videos, podcasts, and more—without paying licensing fees. However, be aware that:
- While the composition might be public domain, a modern recording of it may still be copyrighted.
- Some platforms, like YouTube, might flag public domain recordings owned by a specific publisher.
What is Royalty-Free Music?
Royalty-free music allows creators to purchase a one-time license to use a track without paying ongoing royalties. This makes it a popular choice for content creators, businesses, and filmmakers.
How Does Royalty-Free Music Work?
- You pay once for the license and can use the music without additional fees.
- It is not free—you need to obtain a license, either through a one-time purchase or a subscription.
- The license often specifies where and how you can use the track (e.g., social media, commercials, corporate projects).
Why Choose Royalty-Free Music?
- Cost-effective – No ongoing payments or royalties.
- Flexible usage – Ideal for YouTube videos, podcasts, social media, ads, films, and corporate projects.
- Wide selection – Available across many platforms, including TuneCutter.
Common Misconception: Does Royalty-Free Mean Free?
No. Royalty-free does NOT mean free—it means you don’t have to pay recurring royalties, but you still need a license. Some platforms offer free royalty-free tracks, while others require a paid subscription.
What is Copyright-Free Music?
Copyright-free music refers to tracks that have no copyright ownership or restrictions. These songs are either released into the public domain or created under a license that allows unrestricted use.
Can I Use Copyright-Free Music Without Attribution?
- If it’s truly copyright-free, you don’t need to credit the creator.
- Some platforms require credit (attribution) even for free tracks—always check the licensing details.
Risks of Copyright-Free Music
- Many sites mislabel royalty-free music as “copyright-free”, leading to legal risks.
- Some platforms may still flag copyright-free tracks if a third party wrongfully claims ownership.
Which Type of Music is Best for You?
| Music Type | Free to Use? | Commercial Use? | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Domain | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Modern recordings may still be copyrighted |
| Royalty-Free | ❌ No (license required) | ✅ Yes | Must adhere to license terms |
| Copyright-Free | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Rare—check authenticity before use |
Final Recommendation
If you need easy-to-license, high-quality music for your projects, royalty-free music is the best option. Platforms like TuneCutter provide a forever license, meaning your track remains safe even if you cancel your subscription.
Get Royalty-Free Music from TuneCutter
At TuneCutter, we make it easy for content creators, businesses, and artists to access high-quality royalty-free music.
Why choose TuneCutter?
✔ Unlimited downloads (with subscription)
✔ Forever license – No future copyright claims
✔ Whitelist YouTube channels to avoid copyright strikes
🎵 Explore our music library now: tunecutter.com
For more details, check out our FAQs. 🚀
