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Music can make your Twitch streams more engaging, but using copyrighted tracks puts your channel at risk of takedowns or bans. Luckily, there are safe ways to add music without breaking copyright rules. From royalty-free libraries to Twitch’s own tools, you can create the right vibe while staying protected.
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Let us explore the safest methods streamers can use to play music on Twitch without risking copyright strikes.
Use Royalty-Free or Creative Commons Music
This is one of the safest ways to add music to Twitch streams. Both options are legal, but each comes with specific rules to follow.
- Royalty-Free Music
Royalty-free music is licensed for commercial use. You can stream it freely using platforms like No Copyright Sounds (NCS).
No Copyright Sounds (NCS) is a UK-based label specializing in royalty-free electronic dance music. Every track they release is safe to use, and you can quickly browse by genre or mood, or search by song title. Once you find a track, the MP3 file is available for free download.
Soundstripe is a subscription-based royalty-free music platform favored by streamers. For $10 per month, you get unlimited access to its constantly updated music library. If you also want sound effects included, the plan costs $20 per month.
- Creative Commons Music
Creative Commons (CC) licenses let artists share their music while keeping certain rights. Depending on the license, you may need to give credit (CC BY), avoid commercial use (CC NC), or follow other rules. That is why reading and respecting the license terms is a must before streaming.
For creators, applying a CC license is a smart way to let others enjoy and share your work while still setting clear boundaries. There are six main CC licenses, each built from four key elements:
- Attribution (BY): Always credit the creator.
- ShareAlike (SA): Any remix or adaptation must carry the same license.
- NonCommercial (NC): Use is limited to non-commercial purposes.
- NoDerivatives (ND): The work can’t be changed or remixed.
This structure gives creators flexibility and helps streamers know exactly what is allowed.
The four key license elements: Attribution (BY), Share Alike (SA), NonCommercial (NC), and No Derivatives (ND).
The six main Creative Commons licences
- How to Credit Creative Commons Music
When using Creative Commons (CC) music on Twitch, giving proper credit is both a legal requirement and a sign of respect to the creator. To attribute correctly, follow these key steps:
- Identify the license – Each CC license (e.g., CC BY, CC BY-SA, CC BY-NC) has its own rules. Always check which license applies.
- Name the creator and title – Clearly mention the song title and the artist’s name. Example: “Track: Sunset Vibes by Jane Doe.”
- Link to the source – Add a direct link to the original track so viewers can find it.
- State the license type – Specify the exact CC license. Example: “Licensed under CC BY 4.0.”
- Note modifications – If you edited or remixed the track, mention this. Example: “Remixed version of the original track.”
By including these details, you ensure you are within legal limits and honoring the music creator’s terms.
Subscribe to Licensed Music Libraries
Platforms like Epidemic are specifically built for streamers. Epidemic Sound offers a vast library of royalty-free music and sound effects designed for creators. Their licensing covers use across all major platforms, eliminating the risk of copyright claims.
- You can start using Epidemic Sound by signing up for an account on the website.
- Once logged in, simply browse the catalog, select a track, and hit the download icon.
- You can choose either the full mix or individual stems.
- Then use the track on any channel linked to your account.
Use Licensed Cover Songs (Safely)
Covers may sound harmless, but they are still copyrighted works. Without the right license, playing them on Twitch can put your channel at risk.
There are three main ways to safely include cover songs in your streams:
- Music You Own
If you create or record your own music, including live performances, ensure that you hold all the rights to it before streaming. If a label or distributor is involved, confirm that you are allowed to broadcast it on Twitch.
- Music Licensed to You
Subscription platforms like Epidemic Sound may include licensed covers as part of their libraries. With an active plan, you can stream their music on Twitch (and even use it later on YouTube or other platforms) without worrying about takedowns.
Conclusion
Incorporating royalty-free tracks, licensed libraries, and Twitch’s built-in tools not only safeguards your stream but also elevates your content. Stream smarter, play legally, and enjoy the good vibes.
FAQs
Can I use Spotify playlists on Twitch?
No. Playing Spotify tracks on Twitch violates copyright laws, as you don’t own the rights to broadcast them.
Do free royalty-free tracks require attribution?
Some royalty-free or Creative Commons licenses require attribution, so always check the terms before using.
How can I be sure royalty-free music is safe to stream?
Use trusted platforms, review the license terms, and keep proof of purchase or download receipts for verification.
