Ask Abbie…
Stephen M. of Tulsa, Oklahoma asked… Where Can I Get Background Music For A Video
You have one of only several choices. You can use a public domain. song for free. Once a copyright expires, the song becomes available for anyone to use… Called Public Domain!
As a general rule, a copyright for works created after January 1, 1978, copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus an additional 70 years. For an anonymous work, a pseudonymous work, or a work made for hire, the copyright endures for a term of 95 years from the year of its first publication or a term of 120 years from the year of its creation, whichever expires first. To Summarize… Old Music!
You can license a song…. depending upon the artist and publishing company controlling the song, it can be very costly for well know music.
Creative Commons Licenses is a good alternative. Creative Commons is non-profit organization allowing artists to share their work with the public, while the writer maintains certain rights. Many sites will advertise this music as free. Free music’ doesn’t necessarily mean free-of-cost or devoid of any rights restrictions, it means “some rights reserved”. Artists define what rights they grant on their music through their choice of license.
I write my own music, but in a pinch I have purchased what is called “Stock Audio”. Pond5 is a good source… for a small fee they offer decent generic music.
Finally, you can hire someone to write music for you, or write it yourself. There are many great inexpensive software packages like Garage Band by Apple, for under $50.00. You can learn to record simple background music with little effort and skill.
Good luck with your project!
Abbie Stancato
Ask Abbie answers general questions in an abbreviated manner. Please follow the links provide and research out the best solution for your situation.
