Royalty-free music and copyright-free music are often confused, but they are not the same thing. Here's the difference:   Royalty-free music: You still need to purchase a license to use royalty-free music, but you don't have to pay a royalty fee each time you use it. Copyright-free music: Copyright-free music is music that is not protected by copyright and can be used without permission or a license. Here are the 3 most important pieces of information about the difference between royalty-free and copyright-free music:   Royalty-free music still requires a license, while copyright-free music does not. Copyright-free music is much rarer than royalty-free music. It's important to make sure you have the appropriate permission or license before using any music in your projects.