If you run a YouTube news channel, you already know that music is one of the fastest ways to trigger a copyright claim. News-style intro music, beds and stingers are everywhere, but most of it is not cleared for monetised video use. This guide explains what you actually need to licence music legally for a news YouTube channel.
Why "royalty-free" is not always enough
"Royalty-free" usually means you pay once and do not owe ongoing royalties. It does not automatically mean you can use the track in a monetised YouTube video, in a sponsored segment, or across social clips. Read the licence terms carefully, or choose a track with a licence written specifically for online news video.
What Newsbed's Online licence covers
The Newsbed Online licence is built for digital news use:
- Unlimited online news videos, including YouTube
- Social clips and short-form edits
- Podcasts and streamed reports
- Worldwide use, with no expiry
It is a one-time payment per track. Once you buy it, the track stays licensed to your channel forever.
Can I use the same music across multiple videos?
Yes. A Newsbed licence is per track, not per video. You can use the licensed track in as many news stories, bulletins and clips as you want, as long as they fit the licence level you bought.
What about Content ID?
Newsbed tracks are original compositions by Marios Georgiades and are not registered in YouTube's Content ID system. That means no automated claims against your channel for using music you have licensed.
When to upgrade to Broadcast or Network
If your video is also being aired on TV or radio, or used by a network of stations, you need the Broadcast or Network licence. The Online licence covers YouTube, websites, podcasts and social only.
Ready to find a track?
Browse the Newsbed news music library and preview every cut before you buy. Every track includes :60, :45, :30, :15 and Stinger versions, plus dialogue-friendly underscore versions, all under one licence.