The Pitfalls of Using Copyrighted Music in Videos.

Copyrighted music and your video are not friends. They never will be.

If you can't be bothered reading below :) see below two points that may affect your video, keep reading if you need to know more:

• Youtube may take it down meaning you cannot post it to other channels like Realestate.com.au or mute the track, which means it was pointless using the music anyway. From Youtube: If you plan to include copyright-protected material in your video, you'll generally need to seek permission to do so first. YouTube cannot grant you these rights. We can't assist creators in finding and contacting the parties who may grant them to you.
  

• You will not be able to boost/advertise the video on Instagram or facebook. This is seen as financial gain out of the artist's music therefore you need a license from the artist. Don't ask, it's a lot of money. You can however use trending music on Instagram to post the video to reels, but you cannot boost it.

In today's digital age, creating captivating video content has become a cornerstone of communication, marketing, and entertainment. Whether you're a content creator, marketer, or simply someone sharing moments with friends and family, adding music to your videos can enhance the viewer experience, evoke emotions, and convey messages more effectively. However, the allure of popular copyrighted music can lead many down a perilous path of legal consequences and unforeseen challenges.

While it may be tempting to incorporate your favorite chart-topping hits into your videos, doing so without proper authorization from the copyright holder can have severe repercussions.

Here are some compelling reasons why you should steer clear of copyrighted music and opt for alternatives instead:

1. Legal Ramifications: Utilizing copyrighted music without permission constitutes copyright infringement, which is a violation of intellectual property law. Copyright holders have the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, and publicly perform their work. By using their music without obtaining the necessary licenses or permissions, you could face legal action, including hefty fines and the removal of your content from online platforms.
   

2. Restricted Distribution: Many online platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, have sophisticated algorithms that automatically detect copyrighted content. If your video contains copyrighted music, these platforms may flag it and either mute the audio, place ads on your video, or even remove it entirely. This not only diminishes the impact of your content but also limits its reach and engagement with your audience.
   

3. Financial Implications: Licensing popular copyrighted music for your videos can be exorbitantly expensive, especially for individuals or small businesses with limited budgets. The cost of obtaining synchronization licenses, performance rights, and mechanical licenses can quickly add up, making it financially impractical for many creators. Alternatively, opting for royalty-free music or tracks licensed under Creative Commons can provide affordable and legal alternatives without breaking the bank.
   

4. Brand Consistency: Incorporating copyrighted music into your videos can inadvertently dilute your brand identity and message. Your choice of music should align with the tone, style, and values of your content and brand. By using original compositions or licensed music tailored to your specific needs, you can maintain brand consistency and enhance the overall coherence of your videos.
   

5. Ethical Considerations: Beyond the legal and financial implications, there are ethical considerations to weigh when using copyrighted music. Respect for artists' creative rights and contributions to the music industry is paramount. By seeking permission or using alternative music options, you demonstrate integrity and support the livelihood of musicians and composers.
   

While the allure of copyrighted music may be strong, the risks and consequences of using it in your videos far outweigh the benefits. By opting for legal and ethical alternatives, such as royalty-free music, original compositions, or tracks licensed under Creative Commons, you can create captivating videos without jeopardizing your integrity, finances, or legal standing. Remember, the right music can elevate your content, but it's essential to choose wisely and respect the rights of creators along the way