DMCA strikes are a well-known problem in the streaming world. We have the solutions for all channels on Twitch, YouTube and other platforms.
One of the most well-known problems among Twitch streamers by now is the banning policy for copyright infringements on the platform. The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), which came into force in October 2020, is particularly controversial. This tightens punishments in the case of copyright infringements and implicitly forces channel operators to also delete old VoDs that could contain legally protected content such as music.
But that doesn’t have to be the case, as long as you play by the rules.
What music can I use in the stream?
In general, you can use anything you own the rights to in your stream. If you are musically talented and have produced your own songs, you may of course use them. Otherwise, you must always pay attention to the licensing regulations.
However, many streamers do not have music licences and therefore have to find other ways.
Licence-free music
In addition to paid platforms, there are many ways to find royalty-free music under the term “no copyright” – subject to their conditions, of course.
On the following platforms you have the possibility to pull free music:
YouTube: NoCopyrightSounds
YouTube: Magic Music
Spotify: SpinningRecords
This is probably the safest way not to get DMCA strikes on Twitch and Co.
Favourable licensed music
If you are already earning something from your streams and can afford monthly fees for music and SFX (sound effects), then the following platforms are worth a look:
Epidemic Sounds: For 15 euros/month or 120 euros/year you get access to 35,000 songs and 90,000 SFX.
Artlist.io: For 199$/year (168,50 Euro) you get access to a platform similar to Epidemic Sounds.
Soundcloud: Access here is considerably cheaper at under 10 euros, but you may only use music under the Creative Common Licence in compliance with the conditions.
At the end of the day, if you want to play it safe and not spend any money, go the YouTube or Spotify route. Those who want to spend some money via Epidemic Sounds, Artlist or SoundCloud. There is a suitable solution for every budget and therefore no reason to use the works of artists illegally.
Which platform do you choose?
