Music can make or break your video content. The right track doesn’t just complement your visuals, it enhances the emotional connection you want to create with your audience. Music is often the difference between your video simply looking good, and leaving a lasting impression. However, finding great music for your video in 2024 can feel overwhelming. With so many music libraries and copyright considerations to navigate, it’s easy to feel lost. On top of that, you need to avoid costly mistakes, like using commercial music without proper licensing, which can lead to your content being taken down or worse. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
In this guide, I’ll break down some of the best places to find music in 2024, from subscription-based music libraries to free resources. I’ll also walk you through the importance of understanding music licensing, so you can avoid the pitfalls and focus on creating content that not only looks great but sounds great too.
The top music libraries in 2024
There are tons of music libraries out there, but which ones are the best for content creators in 2024? Here are five options to consider:
Soundstripe (our favourite!)
All of these platforms offer high-quality tracks spanning every genre you could think of, whether you need upbeat pop for a promo video or a mellow instrumental for a wedding clip. If you’re a frequent creator, a subscription is often the way to go. Each of these services offers monthly or annual subscriptions, giving you access to unlimited tracks for one price, which is ideal for anyone creating regular video content.
If you’re working on a one-off project, most of these libraries also allow you to license a single track. This flexibility means you can pay only for what you need without locking into a long-term subscription. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be sure to find the perfect track for your project.
Why Soundstripe is our personal favourite
One music library that stands out to me is Soundstripe. In fact, it’s where we’ve been getting most of our music for Studio 91 since our humble beginnings in 2018. The platform has a user-friendly interface, regularly updated tracks, and a fantastic range of genres. It’s my go-to for any type of video content, from corporate videos to high-energy event recaps.
One of the best features is their curated playlists, which are great if you’re short on time or need inspiration. Soundstripe doesn’t stop at music either. On the higher pricing tiers, you can also get sound effects and stock footage, making this a great all-round tool for creators.
Free music libraries for creators on a budget
We understand that sometimes you need to keep the cost as low as possible. Fortunately, there are also free music libraries available that still offer decent-quality tracks. In 2024, Audio Library remains one of the most popular free resources, boasting millions of subscribers on YouTube. It’s a curated collection of high-quality tracks that the composers have made available for free, with no royalties and usually on a Creative Commons licence.
When you download a track, you’ll be given an attribution to copy and paste into your description or the video itself; this is important in order to meet the requirements of the CC licence. There’s a huge variety of genres, making it a great option for personal projects or smaller-scale videos.
Thankfully, though, music from Soundstripe is included in all the video projects we produce for our clients. Get in touch if you want to talk more about how we can help.
Music and the emotional impact of your video
Now that you know where to find the best music and how to license it properly, the last piece of the puzzle is making sure that the music you choose enhances the emotional impact of your video. Music isn’t just background noise—it can elevate your content and connect with your audience on a deeper level.
When selecting a track, consider how the tone, pace, and genre complement your visuals. Are you aiming for an uplifting, energetic vibe? Or are you going for something more subtle and emotional? Matching the right track with your content’s tone can turn a good video into a memorable one.
Music is an essential tool in video production, and in 2024, there are more options than ever to find the perfect track. Whether you opt for a subscription service like Soundstripe or explore free libraries like Audio Library, make sure you’re always thinking about how music will enhance your story. And most importantly, always ensure that you’re using music legally by double-checking your licences.
