What this difference between Youtube Content ID and Youtube Music?

Youtube offers a variety of distribution options, but it can be tricky to figure out which one best suits your needs. What is the difference between Content ID and Youtube Music? See below for common differences.

Key Similarities

  • Both products collect earnings that are sent you via our earnings page
  • Data can be tracked in similar ways (either on trac's analytics pages or within Youtube Content's Manager)

Key Differences

Content ID 

  • Youtube Content ID is a CMS (content management system) that detects your audio when it's used in other videos on Youtube
  • This is an asset that doesn't get uploading anywhere publicly, but simply detects and claims your material when used, thus getting you paid!
  • All claims and assets can be tracked on Youtube's studio content manager site

Youtube Music 

  • Youtube Music is a streaming service just like other DSP's 
  • Once submitted, your music is streamable on youtube music 

What is accepted for Content ID? 

  • Only original music with all sounds recorded by you - content in which you have exclusive rights to 
  • Content that is distinct and not generic 

 

What is NOT accepted for Content ID? 

Here are some examples of non-exclusive content (which will not be accepted):

  • “Best of" playlists, compilations;
  • Mashups, DJ mixes, and remixes of other works;
  • Music or video for which you hold non-exclusive rights;
  • Recordings of performances (including concerts, events, speeches, shows);
  • Public domain content (traditional music and songs, prayers, Christmas carols, etc.);
  • Karaoke tracks;
  • Sound effects and generic sounds;
  • Re-recordings of classical compositions;
  • Unlicensed music and videos.

Here are some more examples of content that cannot be delivered with Content ID:

  • Electronic/EDM instrumental tracks
  • Hip-hop/trap instrumental tracks
  • Latin/Urban instrumental tracks
  • Looped instrumentals
  • Computer-generated or AI-generated music (this will not even be approved for release by Trac)
  • Cover songs or mashups
  • Remixes
  • Songs in the public domain
  • Tracks with sounds or loops that you did not create yourself, i.e. sounds or loops downloaded or purchased from DAWs, sample packs, or sound libraries (such as Looperman, Splice, Garageband, Ableton, etc.)

NOTE: Even if it's legal for you to use these sounds mentioned above, it's not possible to add Content ID to any tracks including any of these things.

WARNING: YouTube takes Content ID very seriously, which is why all of our CID (Content ID) users must abide to their conditions. If these are not met, you will not be allowed to submit to CID, and your Trac account may be terminated, or worse, you may be held accountable to YouTube for any copyright infringement or legal disputes.

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