Can I use whatever music I want in YouTube shorts under 60 seconds?

Kopas

Kopas

Newbie
Joined
May 19, 2026
Messages
40
Reaction score
9
Some say that you can use whatever music u want in YouTube shorts under 60 seconds no matter the copyrights?

when asking gemini and chatgpt they say otherwise

what is the truth?
 
Advertise on BHW
Kopas said:
Some say that you can use whatever music u want in YouTube shorts under 60 seconds no matter the copyrights?

when asking gemini and chatgpt they say otherwise

what is the truth?
Click to expand...

Still risky and can get you a strike.
 
  • Like
Reactions: GTC
Most importantly you should be careful about copyrighted content but there are ways to "cover it up" if you really want to push on some precise melody reference, would need some tweaking, after all it's a bot that's scanning them - it can be tricked.
 
Nah, that’s a myth. Even under 60 seconds, copyright still applies. Shorts might be a bit more lenient with muted claims or revenue split, but you can’t just drop any track and be safe. Always use YouTube’s library or cleared music.
 
hiosfzjx said:
Editing a song can also help, even just changing the tempo or adding some effects can make it distinct enough to avoid copyright claims. What I've seen work well is taking a popular song and flipping it into a different genre, like turning a hip hop track into a techno remix, it's still recognizable but different enough to avoid issues. Making a remix and reuploading it is also a good strategy, just make sure you're not using too much of the original track. It's all about finding that balance between making it your own and still having a catchy tune.
Click to expand...
adsmaman said:
Most importantly you should be careful about copyrighted content but there are ways to "cover it up" if you really want to push on some precise melody reference, would need some tweaking, after all it's a bot that's scanning them - it can be tricked.
Click to expand...
If I take those Slowed + Reverb versions of them it will be ok?
 
is 60 seconds really the magic number where copyright rules don't apply anymore
 
You can not just use any music you like. Even Shorts under 60 seconds can get muted or taken down if it’s copyrighted.
 
This involves music copyright issues. Since you intend to use a relatively long 60-second segment, you will need to employ effective masking techniques to be able to use it successfully.
 
you can not use all music from youtube, you can only use NCS music and youtube library music.
 
You cannot use any music freely in YouTube Shorts under 60 seconds. Copyright still applies. Use YouTube’s library, licensed tracks, or your own music to stay safe.
 
Kopas said:
Some say that you can use whatever music u want in YouTube shorts under 60 seconds no matter the copyrights?

when asking gemini and chatgpt they say otherwise

what is the truth?
Click to expand...
Of course not. Your video could easily receive a copyright claim or be reported for copyright infringement.
 
No—being under 60 seconds doesn’t automatically avoid copyright rules; you can freely use music only if it’s licensed, royalty-free, or available in YouTube’s music library.
 
No.

You'll still get copyright claims.

You can use music from YouTube as they are paid for by the shared ad rev.

Obviously copyright free music would be fine to use as well.
 
Kopas said:
Some say that you can use whatever music u want in YouTube shorts under 60 seconds no matter the copyrights?

when asking gemini and chatgpt they say otherwise

what is the truth?
Click to expand...
No you will get copyright ban. Only music from Youtube's library is allowed to be used and only on Youtube.
 
Advertise on BHW
You must log in or register to reply here.
Sign up now!

Main Menu

Home Main Forum List Black Hat SEO White Hat SEO BHW Newbie Guide Blogging Black Hat Tools Social Media Downloads

Marketplace

Account Selling Content / Copywriting EBooks / Methods Hosting Misc Proxies For Sale SEO - Link building SEO - Packages Social Media Social Media - Panels Web Design More

Making Money

Affiliate Programs Hire a Freelancer IM Journeys Making Money Pay Per Click Site Flipping Want to Buy

BlackHat World

Dispute Resolution Forum Suggestions & Feedback Introductions Lounge
Back
Top