Where to Download Free MP3s Without Copyright Issues
Whether you're a content creator, podcaster, indie filmmaker, or just someone who enjoys adding music to personal projects, using copyrighted music without permission can lead to serious consequences — from video takedowns to legal claims. Thankfully, there are platforms that offer free, royalty-free MP3s that are safe to download and use, often without attribution.
This guide walks you through the most reliable websites for downloading free MP3s legally, so you can create, publish, and share without worrying about copyright strikes.
1. Bensound
- Bensound is a beautifully designed website offering professional-quality royalty-free tracks in a wide range of genres — jazz, cinematic, electronic, and more.
- You can use tracks for free in non-commercial projects as long as you give credit. Want to skip attribution? They offer a one-time license or subscription for that too.
- Highlights:
- Free MP3s with attribution
- Easy license upgrade options
- Excellent production value
- Listen and download here: https://www.bensound.com
2. Free Music Archive (FMA)
- The Free Music Archive has been a cornerstone for open music since 2009. It’s a massive catalog of tracks from independent musicians, all shared under Creative Commons licenses. Some songs are cleared for commercial use, others are for non-commercial projects only.
- To stay on the safe side:
- Filter results by license type.
- Look for tracks labeled “Public Domain” or “CC BY” for broader usage.
- Great for anyone creating student films, social media content, or podcast background music.
- Explore it here: https://freemusicarchive.org
3. YouTube Audio Library
- If you publish on YouTube, this is one of the safest places to grab music. YouTube’s built-in audio library offers a wide range of free-to-use MP3 tracks — from upbeat background scores to atmospheric soundscapes.
- You can search by genre, mood, or instrument, and each track clearly shows whether attribution is required.
- Perfect for:
- Vloggers
- Tutorials
- Monetized YouTube channels
- Access the library: https://studio.youtube.com/audio-library
4. Incompetech by Kevin MacLeod
- This site is legendary in the royalty-free music world. Kevin MacLeod has composed thousands of tracks that have been used in everything from viral videos to feature films.
- You can download MP3s for free, but you must credit him unless you purchase a separate license.
- Why it stands out:
- Wide selection of orchestral, quirky, cinematic, and classical tracks
- Simple license terms
- Fast, easy downloads
- Visit the library: https://incompetech.com
5. Jamendo Music
- Jamendo is a platform where indie artists showcase their work under Creative Commons licenses. While personal-use downloads are free, Jamendo also offers affordable commercial licenses through Jamendo Licensing.
- This dual approach makes it flexible:
- Free MP3s for personal listening or student projects
- Paid licenses for brands, ads, or professional media
- If you're building a brand or working for a client, Jamendo can be a smart middle ground.
- Explore the catalog: https://www.jamendo.com/start
6. SoundCloud (Filtered for Creative Commons)
- SoundCloud isn’t just for streaming — many artists upload tracks under open licenses. If you're willing to do a bit of digging, you’ll find hidden gems that are completely free to download and use.
- Tips for using SoundCloud legally:
- Use search filters or keywords like “Creative Commons”
- Check each track's description or licensing information
- When in doubt, message the artist directly
- This is a great resource for discovering niche music and underground styles.
- Start searching: https://soundcloud.com
Free Extras for Creators
How to Use Free MP3s Legally: Quick Reminders
Downloading is easy. Using them responsibly is just as important. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Check the license type before using a track. Even royalty-free music can have restrictions.
- If a song requires credit, include proper attribution in your video or description.
- For monetized content or commercial projects, confirm that the license allows for commercial use.
- When unsure, reach out to the platform or artist for clarification.
Conclusion
There's no reason to risk copyright strikes, muted audio, or takedown notices when there are so many safe and legal places to download free MP3s. By using the platforms above, you’ll gain peace of mind and elevate your content with professionally produced music — all without spending a dime.
Whether you need music for a personal video, a professional podcast, or a branded campaign, start with these trusted sources and create with confidence.
