how to add music to youtube shorts - should you use royalty-free or original music?

When it comes to enhancing the appeal and engagement of your YouTube Shorts videos, adding music is often a crucial step. Whether you choose to use royalty-free music or create your own original compositions, both options come with their unique advantages and considerations. This article will explore various perspectives on this topic, providing insights that might help you decide which path to take when incorporating music into your Shorts content.

Royalty-Free Music: A Cost-Effective Solution

Royalty-free music is a popular choice for many creators due to its affordability. These tracks typically allow you to use them in your videos without needing to pay royalties each time your video is played. This makes them an attractive option for those who want to maintain control over their content while keeping costs low. However, it’s important to ensure that the music you select is suitable for the tone and style of your Shorts. Sometimes, the pre-packaged nature of royalty-free music may not perfectly align with the emotional impact or creative direction you’re aiming for.

Original Composition: Personal Touch and Creativity

On the other hand, creating your own original music offers unparalleled creativity and personal touch. With this approach, you have complete freedom to craft sounds and melodies that resonate deeply with your audience. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or simply someone who enjoys experimenting with different genres and styles, composing your own music can be incredibly rewarding. The downside, however, is that producing high-quality original music requires significant time and effort. Additionally, finding the right balance between originality and marketability can sometimes be challenging.

Balancing Both Approaches

While it’s tempting to choose one approach over the other, many creators find success by blending both royalty-free music and original compositions. Combining these elements allows you to leverage the benefits of each method. For instance, you could start with a catchy royalty-free track to grab attention, then seamlessly transition into an original instrumental or vocal performance that builds upon the momentum established by the pre-existing music. This hybrid approach can result in more engaging and memorable Shorts, as it caters to diverse tastes while maintaining a cohesive narrative arc.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to use royalty-free music or create your own original compositions depends largely on your goals, resources, and artistic vision. Each path has its merits and challenges. By considering the specific needs of your Shorts content and experimenting with different combinations of pre-made and original music, you can develop a strategy that enhances viewer engagement and maintains your unique brand identity.