How to legally use popular music on TikTok in sponsored content? Learn more about copyright on TT.

If you create sponsored content on TikTok, you cannot put just any hit song from the radio into your video, even if the app allows you to add it. Just because a song is “trending” does not mean you have the rights to use it when advertising toothpaste, an online course, or an affiliate link.

This is the most common mistake that has already cost many creators their earnings, and some have even received letters from lawyers. Why? Because TikTok has two separate music catalogs, and access to hits is limited by licenses for personal, non-commercial use only.

If you create advertising content—collaborations, promote your e-book, or do a product review with a discount code—you are formally in commercial mode. And then completely different rules apply.

“It’s just TikTok, what could go wrong?” – how one hit song from the radio can block your campaign?

If you use a song from TikTok’s general library in an advertisement, which lacks a commercial license— you are breaking the law. Even if it’s just for 15 seconds. Even if it’s only in the background.

What can happen then?

• TikTok will mute your video – automatically removing the audio track, making the content senseless.
  
• It won’t pass through Spark Ads – meaning you can’t promote it paid because it will be blocked at the algorithm level.
  
• A record company may file a claim – even if you’re a micro-influencer, you could be held liable, and the brand you’re collaborating with might leave you on your own (as contracts often shift the responsibility to the creator).
  

And yes – all this is happening in reality. We’re not talking “maybe,” but about cases that have already occurred. Algorithms are becoming increasingly accurate, and major record labels have automatic systems to detect unauthorized use of music. Simply tagging the artist is no longer enough. This isn’t Instagram in 2015.

Copyright on TikTok is no joke – get to know the two libraries and choose your music wisely

On TikTok, there are two music catalogs – and the one you use could decide whether your video takes off or gets taken down.

• The general music library is the one most users use. It contains popular tracks – from Taylor Swift to Polish pop. You can use it… only if your account is personal and not for advertising.
• The Commercial Music Library (CML) is a base of over a million royalty-free tracks – instrumental, niche, often created specifically for promotion. You can use it if you create sponsored content. No fees, but only within TikTok. Don’t upload a video with the same music on YouTube Shorts or Instagram – you don’t have the license there.

The conclusion? Before choosing music – check which library it comes from. If you don’t do this, even the best video could go to waste.

Where to get legal music for TikTok collaborations? 3 proven methods to give you peace of mind

If you earn on TikTok, you have three sensible options for handling music for sponsored content. Each of them works legally and helps avoid stress.

Here’s how you can proceed.

• Use TikTok’s commercial library – just click the magnifying glass when adding a sound and select “Commercial Sounds.” If the song doesn’t appear there, you don’t have the right to use it in advertising.
  
• Purchase access to platforms like Epidemic Sound or Artlist – this is the most professional option. Just remember to add your TikTok nickname to the list of safe accounts in the settings. Otherwise, even paid music may get blocked.
  
• Create your own sound – use a voiceover or record something from scratch. More challenging, but absolutely safe.
  

Common case? Creators with larger outreach switch to paid platforms because they have access to unique sounds and better audio quality. But even as a smaller creator, you can legally use music – you just need to know where to get it from.

Used a Dua Lipa hit? You might have a problem – here’s what happens for breaking copyright on TikTok

It’s not about frightening anyone – but it’s worth knowing exactly what the consequences are of using music without a license in sponsored videos. Because the consequences are much more serious than just a muted video.

What can you expect?

• Your account may receive a warning or have its reach limited – without any prior warning.
  
• Your content may be blocked as an ad – even if you’ve already signed a contract with a brand.
  
• In extreme cases, you might receive a letter from a record company lawyer or the brand itself, expecting compensation because you broke the law and exposed them to losses.
  

Does it sound harsh? Because that’s exactly the reality of TikTok. Many brand agreements with influencers state that you are responsible for the legality of the material. Even if you did everything right but uploaded music “quickly” – the consequences will be on you.

“It’s just 10 seconds”, “I’ll tag the artist” – 3 myths about copyright on TikTok that could ruin you

There are still a lot of misconceptions circulating about what is allowed and what is not. Unfortunately, many of these lead creators straight to a ban or legal issues. Below are three most common myths you need to reject.

• “It’s enough to credit the artist” – this doesn’t help. You don’t have a license. TikTok doesn’t have it for you either.
  
• “If the video is less than 15 seconds, it falls within the limit” – no. In advertising, every second is subject to synchronization rights.
  
• “Others do it and nothing happens” – this is a classic survival bias. Just because they haven’t been caught doesn’t mean it’s legal. TikTok is tightening the rules month by month.
  

If something seems too simple to be legal – it’s probably not legal. And “because everyone is doing it” is not a defense when your account, video, or partnership with a major brand gets blocked.

FAQ

Can I use trending music if I’m promoting a product?

No. Even if a song is popular in the app, you are not allowed to use it in sponsored content – unless it is available in the Commercial Music Library.

Is buying a track on Spotify or iTunes enough to own rights to it?

No. This gives you the right to listen, not to use it in a video – especially a commercial one.

Will TikTok notify me if I’m using music illegally?

Not always. Sometimes the algorithm will detect it later – and then the video will be muted or blocked.

Do external music platforms really work?

Yes, if you correctly configure the license and provide your TikTok ID in the panel (e.g. in Epidemic Sound).

Can I upload the same video to TikTok and YouTube Shorts with the same music?

No. The Commercial Music Library license only covers TikTok – you need separate rights for other platforms.