Top Free and Paid Background Music Sources for Explainer Videos
Background music is the unsung hero of a great explainer video. It sets the tone, evokes emotion, and enhances viewer engagement. Whether you’re creating a lighthearted animation or a professional B2B presentation, the right music can elevate your video’s impact.
Why Background Music Matters in Explainer Videos
Music plays a vital role in how viewers perceive your video. A well-chosen track can:
- Set the Mood: Whether you want to inspire, excite, or soothe, music creates the emotional backdrop for your story.
- Enhance Messaging: Subtle instrumental tracks can reinforce your brand’s tone and message.
- Increase Retention: Studies show that people retain more information when engaging multiple senses—music included.
When creating explainer videos for specific audiences, such as startups or corporate clients, music selection becomes even more critical.
Top Free Music Sources for Explainer Videos
Free music libraries are a fantastic option if you’re working on a budget. Here are some of the best:
YouTube Audio Library
- Offers a wide range of royalty-free tracks and sound effects.
- Filter by genre, mood, or instrument to find the perfect match.
- Ideal for: Small businesses and startups creating quick explainer videos.
Free Music Archive (FMA)
- A nonprofit repository with a diverse selection of tracks.
- Make sure to check the licensing requirements for attribution.
- Ideal for: Educational or nonprofit explainer videos.
Incompetech
- Features music by composer Kevin MacLeod, known for high-quality royalty-free tracks.
- Easy to browse by genre or feel.
- Ideal for: Fun and quirky animated explainer videos.
Free music is great for beginners, but if you’re creating professional content, consider the premium options below.
Top Paid Music Sources for Explainer Videos
For professional-grade tracks, paid libraries offer extensive collections and usage rights. Here are the top choices:
Epidemic Sound
- A subscription-based service with unlimited downloads.
- High-quality tracks tailored to video creators.
- Ideal for: Agencies or freelancers creating multiple explainer videos.
Artlist
- A one-stop shop for royalty-free music and sound effects.
- Features a simple licensing model for all platforms.
- Ideal for: Corporate or B2B explainer videos.
PremiumBeat
- Curated tracks with an emphasis on quality.
- Offers single-track purchases or subscriptions.
- Ideal for: High-budget projects requiring cinematic sound.
AudioJungle
- Part of the Envato Market, with thousands of affordable tracks.
- Pay per track or access through an Envato subscription.
- Ideal for: Freelancers balancing quality and cost.
If you’re producing videos for platforms like YouTube, check out Optimizing Explainer Videos for YouTube and Other Search Engines to ensure your content gets noticed.
How to Choose the Right Music for Your Explainer Video
Choosing music isn’t just about picking a good track—it’s about finding one that aligns with your video’s goals. Consider these tips:
- Match the Tone: Light acoustic tracks work well for startups, while orchestral pieces are perfect for professional B2B videos.
- Avoid Overpowering the Voiceover: Music should complement, not compete with, your narration.
- Check Licensing: Ensure the music fits your video’s distribution channels to avoid copyright issues.
- Test with Your Audience: Play different tracks for a focus group to gauge their emotional response.
For complex products or services, the right music can simplify the message.
Conclusion
Background music is more than an add-on—it’s a crucial part of creating an engaging and memorable explainer video. Whether you choose free or paid options, the key is to select tracks that enhance your message and resonate with your audience.
To ensure your explainer videos achieve maximum impact, schedule a call with us today to see the success of your efforts!
Alina
I'm the Director of Creative Operations at Viral Ideas. I'm passionate about marketing, writing, and social media.