YouTube Audio Library vs Original Music Strategy: Which One is Right for You?

When it comes to adding music to your YouTube videos, you have two main options: use music from the YouTube Audio Library or create original music. In this article, we'll dive into the pros and cons of each option and provide actionable tips to help you make an informed decision.

According to our parent guide, YouTube Music Marketing: The Ultimate Guide for Artists, using high-quality music is crucial for engaging your audience and standing out on the platform. But what's the best way to achieve this? Let's explore the benefits and drawbacks of using music from the YouTube Audio Library versus creating original music.

The Pros and Cons of Using Music from the YouTube Audio Library

  • No copyright issues: Since the music is from the YouTube Audio Library, you don't have to worry about copyright infringement or licensing fees.
  • Free: The music is free to use, which can be a major plus for artists on a budget.
  • High-quality: The YouTube Audio Library offers a wide range of high-quality music that's perfect for adding an extra layer of emotion to your videos.
  • Time-saving: With the YouTube Audio Library, you can quickly find and add music to your videos without having to search for it elsewhere.

However, there are some limitations to using music from the YouTube Audio Library. For example:

  • Limited options: While the library has a wide range of music, it's not exhaustive, and you may find that the style or genre of music you're looking for isn't available.
  • Lack of customization: You're limited to the music choices available in the library, which may not fit your specific needs or brand.

The Pros and Cons of Creating Original Music

  • Customization: When you create original music, you can tailor it to fit your specific needs, brand, and style.
  • Unique identity: Original music helps you establish a unique identity and differentiate yourself from others in your niche.
  • Increased engagement: Research has shown that music that resonates with the viewer can increase engagement and watch time (check out our article on how to get your music video on YouTube trending for more tips).

However, creating original music can also have its drawbacks:

  • Cost: Hiring a composer or producer can be expensive, especially for indie artists.
  • Time-consuming: Creating original music requires time and effort, which may take away from other areas of your business.
  • Licensing fees: If you decide to license your music to others, you'll need to consider additional licensing fees.

Actionable Tips for Using Music from the YouTube Audio Library

While creating original music can be beneficial, it's not always feasible for indie artists. Here are some actionable tips for using music from the YouTube Audio Library:

  • Experiment with different genres and styles to find the perfect fit for your brand.
  • Use the YouTube Audio Library's advanced search feature to find music that matches your specific needs.
  • Consider using a combination of music from the library and original music to create a unique sound.
  • Don't be afraid to reach out to the artist or composer directly to inquire about licensing their music for commercial use.

Actionable Tips for Creating Original Music

While using music from the YouTube Audio Library can be convenient, creating original music can be a game-changer for your brand. Here are some actionable tips to help you get started:

  • Develop a unique sound or style that sets you apart from others in your niche.
  • Collaborate with other artists or producers to create something truly unique.
  • Invest in a good quality recording setup to ensure your music sounds professional.
  • Consider using royalty-free music or sound effects to add depth to your original music.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to use music from the YouTube Audio Library or create original music, the key is to find a sound that resonates with your audience and sets you apart from the competition. Remember, original music can be a powerful tool for engaging your audience and establishing a unique identity, but it requires time, effort, and resources. By weighing the pros and cons of each option, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget.

For more tips on creating a successful music marketing strategy, check out our parent guide, YouTube Music Marketing: The Ultimate Guide for Artists, and explore our other resources on YouTube thumbnail design tips for music videos, how to use YouTube analytics for music strategy, and how YouTube algorithm recommends music videos.

Additionally, if you're interested in learning more about building a music career with data, check out our article How to Build a Music Career with Data and Analytics, or explore our independent artist guide to music distribution, The Independent Artist's Guide to Music Distribution.