Posting Videos with Music on Facebook: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you want to add some sonic flair to your Facebook videos? Excellent! You can post a video with music on Facebook primarily through Facebook’s built-in music library available within the Facebook app. This library offers a vast selection of royalty-free tracks and licensed songs you can use legally without copyright concerns. Let’s explore how this works and other options, ensuring your videos hit the right notes without hitting legal roadblocks.

The Official Route: Facebook’s Music Library

Facebook, ever keen to keep users within its ecosystem, offers a direct and largely hassle-free way to add music to your videos:

How To Add Music Within the Facebook App: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start a New Post: Open the Facebook app on your mobile device (Android or iOS) and tap on “What’s on your mind?” or the photo/video icon to start a new post.
2. Upload Your Video: Select the video you wish to upload from your phone’s gallery.
3. Access the Editing Tools: Once the video is loaded, you’ll typically see editing options appear at the bottom of the screen. Look for an icon resembling a music note.
4. Explore Facebook’s Music Library: Tap the music note icon to open Facebook’s audio library. This library is organized into genres, moods, and featured artists. You can search for specific songs or browse through curated playlists.
5. Preview and Select Your Music: Before committing, preview the music to ensure it fits your video. Once you’ve found the perfect track, tap on it to select it.
6. Adjust the Music Volume: It’s crucial to adjust the music volume relative to the video’s original audio. Nobody wants drowned-out commentary! Most editors offer a slider to control the balance between the video’s sound and the added music.
7. Trim the Music (If Needed): Often, you won’t need the entire song. Use the trimming tool to select the portion of the song that best complements your video. You can also control when the music starts playing within the video.
8. Post Your Video: Once you’re happy with the audio and video combination, add a caption, tag friends, and adjust privacy settings as desired. Then, tap “Post” to share your masterpiece with the world.

Benefits of Using Facebook’s Music Library

• Legality: The biggest advantage is that the music is licensed for use on Facebook, protecting you from copyright infringement claims.
• Ease of Use: The integration within the Facebook app makes the process incredibly simple and convenient.
• Variety: The library contains a decent selection of tracks, catering to various moods and styles.
• Cost-Effective: Access to the library is generally free for personal use.

Alternative Methods: Third-Party Video Editors

While Facebook’s built-in library is convenient, it might not offer the specific song you have in mind. In such cases, you can use third-party video editing apps before uploading to Facebook.

Popular Video Editing Apps with Music Integration

• InShot: A user-friendly mobile app with a robust music library and editing features.
• CapCut: Another popular mobile option known for its advanced features and extensive music selection.
• iMovie (iOS): A free and powerful video editor available on iPhones and iPads.
• Adobe Premiere Rush: A cross-platform option that offers a more professional editing experience.

Using Third-Party Apps: A General Workflow

1. Edit Your Video: Use the chosen app to edit your video as desired.
2. Add Music: Import your desired music track into the app and add it to your video timeline.
3. Adjust Volume and Timing: As with Facebook’s editor, adjust the music volume and trim the track to fit your video perfectly.
4. Export Your Video: Export the finished video from the app in a format compatible with Facebook (e.g., MP4).
5. Upload to Facebook: Upload the edited video directly to Facebook from your phone’s gallery.

Important Considerations When Using Third-Party Music

• Copyright: This is crucial! If you use copyrighted music without permission, your video could be taken down, or your account could face penalties. Ensure you have the necessary licenses or permissions to use the music commercially or obtain music that is labeled as royalty free.
• Royalty-Free Music Websites: Explore websites like Epidemic Sound, Artlist, or PremiumBeat for high-quality royalty-free music that you can use legally. They have subscription based plans or single track purchase options.
• Crediting the Artist: Even with royalty-free music, it’s good practice to credit the artist in your video description.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Here are 12 frequently asked questions (FAQs) to clarify any remaining doubts:

1. Is it illegal to post a video with copyrighted music on Facebook?

Yes, it can be. Using copyrighted music without permission infringes on the copyright holder’s rights. Facebook has algorithms designed to detect copyrighted music, and your video may be muted, removed, or your account could be penalized.

2. How can I avoid copyright issues when adding music to my Facebook videos?

The safest approach is to use Facebook’s built-in music library or obtain licenses or permissions for copyrighted music. Alternatively, use royalty-free music from reputable sources.

3. Can I use music from YouTube on my Facebook videos?

Not without permission. Music found on YouTube is generally copyrighted. Downloading and using it without a license is a copyright violation.

4. What happens if Facebook detects copyrighted music in my video?

Facebook might mute the audio, remove the video, or, in severe cases, suspend or terminate your account. You might also receive a copyright strike.

5. How do I get permission to use a copyrighted song on Facebook?

Contact the copyright holder (usually the record label or music publisher) and request a license. This often involves paying a fee.

6. What is royalty-free music?

Royalty-free music allows you to use music for a one-time fee or subscription without having to pay royalties to the copyright holder each time it’s used. However, it doesn’t always mean free. There’s usually a cost for a license, and each service may vary.

7. Can I use a short clip of a copyrighted song under fair use?

Fair use is a complex legal doctrine, and its application is fact-specific. Generally, using a short clip for parody, criticism, or education may fall under fair use, but it’s not a guarantee. Consult with a legal professional for advice in your specific situation.

8. How do I know if a song is copyrighted?

Almost all commercially released music is copyrighted. If you are unsure, assume it is copyrighted and take the necessary precautions.

9. What are some good sources for finding royalty-free music?

Some reputable sources include Epidemic Sound, Artlist, PremiumBeat, and Bensound. Always read the licensing terms carefully.

10. Can I use music I created myself on Facebook?

Yes, if you own the copyright to the music (i.e., you composed and recorded it yourself), you are free to use it on Facebook.

11. Does Facebook offer different music options for personal and commercial use?

Yes, Facebook distinguishes between personal and commercial use. Using music for commercial purposes (e.g., promoting a business) may require additional licensing.

12. What is the best way to add music to a Facebook Story?

The process is similar to adding music to a regular video post. When creating a Story, look for the music sticker option. This will open Facebook’s music library, allowing you to select and add music to your Story. You can adjust the portion of the song and add lyrics on screen if available.

Adding music to your Facebook videos can significantly enhance their impact and engagement. By understanding the available options and respecting copyright laws, you can create compelling content that resonates with your audience without facing legal repercussions. Now go forth and create some visually and aurally stunning videos!