Starting a YouTube Channel with Lyrics Videos: Navigating Copyright Issues

Starting a YouTube channel dedicated to lyric videos can be a creative way to share your passion for music while engaging your audience. However, navigating the complexity of copyright laws can be challenging, especially when it comes to making lyric videos. This guide aims to help you understand the legal and practical aspects of creating a lyric video channel on YouTube without facing copyright claims or strikes.

The Legal Landscape

When creating a YouTube channel with lyric videos, it is crucial to understand the legal implications and existing regulations. Legally, posting copyrighted music along with your lyrics without permission constitutes copyright infringement. As a result, you can face copyright claims from content owners, which can impact your channel.

Permission and Licensing

The safest approach is to ask for permission before using a song in your video. If you obtain a license, it ensures that your use of the song falls within legal boundaries. However, securing permissions can be time-consuming and often costly. Alternatively, you can decide not to include the video/audio for the song in your video at all, which is a more straightforward option.

Creating Your Own Video

The best way to avoid copyright issues is to create your own recordings. By doing so, you own the copyright of your creation, which negates the risk of copyright claims. Singlehandedly creating a video from scratch is a viable and practical solution. Conversely, copying an existing video or music without authorization is illegal and can lead to copyright infringement.

Uploading Lyrics Videos Without Music

To avoid copyright claims while still sharing your love for music, you can upload your lyrics videos without music. This approach allows you to capture the essence of the lyrics and, if you want to add music later, you can use the YouTube Audio Library.

Using YouTube Audio Library

Follow these steps to use the YouTube Audio Library to add music to your lyrics video:

From the left menu, select Content.

Select the Lyrics video you have uploaded.

From the left menu, click on Editor.

Select Audio. Use the search filters to find the correct music.

When you find the song you need, click ADD.

When you're finished, click SAVE.

Alternatively, you can modify the music's melody and rhythm to create a unique version, which can then be uploaded to YouTube.

Understanding Copyright Claims vs. Strikes

It's important to note that most copyright claims do not result in strikes. Strikes, on the other hand, are a serious issue that can affect your channel's status. Copyright claims, while they may affect your revenue and require resolution, do not permanently harm your channel.

Personal Experience

Not long ago, I started a YouTube channel focused on lyrical song videos. Similar to many creators, I encountered copyright issues. Initially, I faced copyright claims from the song owner, but this did not result in strikes. Today, you can view my lyrical song video, which has been claimed by the copyright owner.

For creators looking to start a YouTube channel with lyric videos, my advice is to proceed with caution. Though creating videos that use lyrics alone is less risky, be prepared for copyright claims and ensure you are committed to resolving them. Remember, creating original content is always the best approach to avoid legal complications.

Adopting these strategies and understanding the nuances of copyright laws can help you build a successful and sustainable YouTube channel dedicated to lyric videos. Happy creating!