What is the Best Site For Free Music Downloads Legally
Music is one of the most universal forms of expression and entertainment. Whether you want to listen to your favorite songs, discover new artists, or create your music, you need a reliable source of high-quality and legal music downloads. However, finding such a source can be challenging, especially if you don’t want to pay for a subscription or deal with annoying ads.
Fortunately, many websites and apps offer free music downloads legally. These sites allow you to download songs, albums, or even entire discographies from various genres and artists. You can also find royalty-free music that you can use for your projects, such as videos, podcasts, or games.
This article will review some of the best music download sites legally based on their features, content, and user experience. We will also provide some tips on downloading music safely and efficiently. Here are the sites we will cover:
Contents
Free Music Archive
It is one of the most popular and comprehensive sites for free music downloads legally. It was launched in 2009 by WFMU, a community radio station in New Jersey. It has since grown into a collaborative platform that hosts over 150,000 songs from various genres and artists.
The main features of Free Music Archive are:
- Curated content: The site features music from independent labels, artists, and curators who share their work under Creative Commons licenses or in the public domain. You can browse the site by genre, mood, instrument, duration, license, or curator.
- High-quality audio: The site offers high-quality audio files in MP3 or OGG formats. You can download individual tracks or entire albums without any registration or payment.
- Community engagement: The site allows you to create playlists, comment on songs, rate tracks, and follow your favorite artists. You can also upload your music and share it with other users.
- Educational resources: The site provides educational materials and guides on music licensing, podcasting, video production, and more.
Some of the pros and cons of Free Music Archive are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Wide range of genres and artists | – Limited search and filter options |
– No registration or payment required | – Some songs may require attribution or permission |
– Active and supportive community | – Site design may look outdated |
Jamendo Music
Jamendo Music is another popular and comprehensive site for free music downloads legally. It was founded in 2005 in Luxembourg and has since become one of the largest platforms for independent music distribution. It hosts over 600,000 tracks from more than 40,000 artists worldwide.
The main features of Jamendo Music are:
- Independent music: The site features music from emerging and established artists who share their work under Creative Commons licenses or with Jamendo Licensing. You can browse the site by genre, mood, theme, popularity, or artist.
- High-quality audio: The site offers high-quality audio files in MP3 or OGG formats. You can download individual tracks or entire albums without any registration or payment.
- Community engagement: The site allows you to create playlists, comment on songs, rate tracks, and follow your favorite artists. You can also upload your music and share it with other users.
- Music licensing: The site provides a separate service called Jamendo Licensing that allows you to license music for your commercial projects, such as videos, ads, games, or podcasts. You can choose from various plans and prices depending on your needs.
Some of the pros and cons of Jamendo Music are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Wide range of genres and artists | – Some songs may have low volume or quality |
– No registration or payment required | – Site design may look cluttered |
– Music licensing service available | – Music licensing services may be expensive |
Internet Archive
Internet Archive is not a site dedicated to music but rather a non-profit digital library that preserves and provides access to various media types, such as books, images, videos, and software. However, it also hosts a huge collection of music files that you can download for free and legally.
The main features of Internet Archive are:
- Historical and cultural content: The site features music from different eras and cultures, such as classical, jazz, blues, rock, folk, world, and more. You can also find rare and obscure music recordings, such as live concerts, radio shows, podcasts, etc.
- Various formats and quality: The site offers multiple formats and quality levels for audio files, such as MP3, FLAC, WAV, OGG, and more. You can download individual tracks or entire collections without any registration or payment.
- Community engagement: The site allows you to create playlists, comment on songs, rate tracks, and follow your favorite collections. You can also upload your music and share it with other users.
- Educational resources: The site provides educational materials and guides on music history, culture, preservation, etc.
Some of the pros and cons of Internet Archive are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Wide range of genres and cultures | – Limited search and filter options |
– No registration or payment required | site design may look outdated |
– Educational and historical value |
YouTube Studio
YouTube Studio is not a site for downloading music but a tool for creating and managing your YouTube channel. However, it also provides a music library of royalty-free music that you can use for your videos or other projects.
The main features of YouTube Studio are:
- Royalty-free music: The site features music from various genres and moods that you can use for your videos without copyright issues. You can browse the site by genre, mood, attribution, or popularity.
- High-quality audio: The site offers high-quality audio files in MP3 format. You can download individual tracks without any registration or payment.
- Video creation and management: The site allows you to create, edit, upload, and manage your YouTube videos. You can also access various analytics and insights on your channel’s performance.
- Community engagement: The site allows you to interact with your viewers, subscribers, and creators. You can also join the YouTube Partner Program and monetize your videos.
Some of the pros and cons of YouTube Studio are
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Wide range of genres and moods | – Limited to YouTube-related projects |
– No registration or payment required | – Site design may look complex |
– Video creation and management tools available | – Video creation and management tools may be challenging |
Bandcamp
Bandcamp is a site that allows artists to sell their music directly to fans while offering some free music downloads legally. It was launched in 2008 in California and has since become one of the most popular platforms for independent music discovery and support.
The main features of Bandcamp are:
- Artist-friendly platform: The site features music from various genres and artists who set their prices and terms for their work. You can browse the site by genre, tag, location, or artist.
- Various formats and quality: The site offers various formats and quality levels for audio files, such as MP3, FLAC, WAV, OGG, and more. Depending on the artist’s preference, you can download individual tracks or entire albums with or without registration or payment.
- Community engagement: The site allows you to create playlists, comment on mp3 songs, rate tracks, and follow your favorite artists. You can also support artists by buying their music, merch, or tickets.
- Music discovery: The site provides various ways to discover new music, such as recommendations, charts, fan collections, editorial picks, and more.
Some of the pros and cons of Bandcamp are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Wide range of genres and artists | – Some music may require registration or payment |
– Various formats and quality levels | – Some music may have low volume or quality |
– Artist-friendly platform | – Some music may require attribution or permission |
– Music discovery and support features available | – Site design may look simple |
Last.fm
[Last.fm] is a site that combines music streaming, downloading, and social networking. It was founded in 2002 in the UK and has since become one of the most popular music listening and sharing platforms.
The main features of Last.fm are:
- Music streaming: The site features music from various genres and artists that you can stream online without registration or payment. You can browse the site by genre, tag, artist, or track.
- Music downloading: The site legally offers free music downloads from various genres and artists. You can download individual tracks in MP3 format without any registration or payment.
- Social networking: The site allows you to create a profile, scrobble your music listening history, join groups, chat with other users, and follow your favorite artists. You can also get personalized recommendations based on your taste.
- Music analytics: The site provides various statistics and insights on your music listening habits, such as charts, graphs, trends, etc.
Some of the pros and cons of Last.fm are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Wide range of genres and artists | – Limited number of free music downloads |
– Music streaming and downloading features available | |
– Social networking and personalization features available | – Some music may require attribution or permission |
– Music analytics features available | – Site design may look complex |
SoundClick
SoundClick allows artists to upload their music and sell it directly to fans while offering free music downloads legally. It was founded in 1997 in Florida and has become one of the oldest and most significant platforms for independent music distribution.
The main features of SoundClick are:
- Artist-friendly platform: The site features music from various genres and artists who set their prices and terms for their work. You can browse the site by genre, chart, mood, artist, or track.
- Various formats and quality: The site offers various formats and quality levels for audio files, such as MP3, WAV, OGG, and more. Depending on the artist’s preference, you can download individual tracks or entire albums with or without registration or payment.
- Community engagement: The site allows you to create playlists, comment on songs, rate tracks, and follow your favorite artists. You can also support artists by buying their music or merch.
- Music discovery: The site provides various ways to discover new music, such as recommendations, charts, radio stations, podcasts, blogs, and more.
Some of the pros and cons of SoundClick are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Wide range of genres and artists | – Some music may require registration or payment |
– Artist-friendly platform | – Some music may require attribution or permission |
– Music discovery and support features available | – Site design may look outdated |
SoundCloud
SoundCloud is a site that allows artists to upload their music and share it with fans while offering some free music downloads legally. It was launched in 2007 in Germany and has become one of the most popular platforms for independent music streaming and sharing.
The main features of SoundCloud are:
- Music streaming: The site features music from various genres and artists that you can stream online without registration or payment. You can browse the site by genre, mood, artist, or track.
- Music downloading: The site legally offers free music downloads from various genres and artists. You can download individual tracks in MP3 format without registration or payment if the artist allows it.
- Community engagement: The site allows you to create playlists, comment on songs, like tracks, and follow your favorite artists. You can also upload your music and share it with other users.
- Music discovery: The site provides various ways to discover new music, such as recommendations, charts, playlists, radio stations, podcasts, and more.
Some of the pros and cons of SoundCloud are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Wide range of genres and artists | – Limited number of free music downloads |
– Music streaming and downloading features available | – Some music may have low volume or quality |
– Music discovery features available | – Site design may look simple |
Musopen
Musopen is a site that provides free music downloads of classical music. You can browse by composer, performer, instrument, period, or form. You can also listen to radio stations based on different genres of classical music. Musopen also offers sheet music and educational resources for music lovers and students.
Some of the features of Musopen are:
- You can download music in MP3, FLAC, or WAV formats.
- You can create playlists and collections of your favorite tracks.
- You can support the site by donating or becoming a member.
- You can access royalty-free music for your projects.
Some of the pros and cons of Musopen are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
1. Enjoy various classical music from different eras and styles. | 1. Limited availability of the latest or popular songs. |
2. Learn more about the history and theory of classical music. | 2. Registration or login is required for specific downloads. |
3. Use the music for personal or commercial purposes without any restrictions. | 3. Potential for encountering broken links or errors on the site. |
BeatStars
BeatStars is a site that allows you to download free music from independent artists and producers. You can discover new music by genre, mood, instrument, or keyword. You can also upload your beats and sell them on the platform. BeatStars is a great place to find original and creative music for your projects.
Some of the features of BeatStars are:
- You can download music in MP3 or WAV formats.
- You can follow your favorite artists and producers and get notified of their new releases.
- You can join contests and challenges and win prizes and exposure.
- You can access exclusive content and deals from partner brands.
Some of the pros and cons of BeatStars are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
1. Find unique and diverse music from talented and emerging artists. | 1. Need to create an account or use social media for downloads. |
2. Support independent musicians and producers by buying their beats or giving feedback. | 2. Some premium features or services may require payment. |
3. Network with other music enthusiasts and creators on the site. | 3. check license terms and conditions before using music for projects. |
Amazon Music
Amazon is one of the most popular online shopping sites in the world. Still, it also offers free music downloads for its customers. You can find thousands of songs from various genres and artists on Amazon’s digital music store. You can also stream unlimited music with Amazon Music Unlimited or Prime Music.
Some of the features of Amazon are:
- You can download music in MP3 format.
- The Amazon Music app or web player can access your audio library on multiple devices.
- You can get recommendations and personalized playlists based on your preferences and listening history.
- You can enjoy ad-free and offline listening with Amazon Music Unlimited or Prime Music.
Some of the pros and cons of Amazon are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
1. Find diverse music collections from different categories and sources. | 1. Need an Amazon account or credit card for some downloads. |
2. Benefit from Amazon’s customer service and security features. | 2. Subscription required for access to more music options and features. |
3. Get access to other perks and benefits from Amazon’s ecosystem. | 3. Some songs or albums exclusive to other platforms may not be available. |
ReverbNation
ReverbNation is a site that connects artists, fans, and industry professionals. You can discover new music from various genres and artists on ReverbNation. You can also support your favorite artists by becoming a fan, buying their merchandise, or attending their shows.
Some of the features of ReverbNation are:
- You can download music in MP3 format.
- You can create your profile and upload your music and videos.
- You can join groups and communities of like-minded music lovers and creators.
- You can access tools and resources to grow your music career.
Some of the pros and cons of ReverbNation are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
1. Find fresh and original music from emerging and independent artists. | 1. Sign up or log in required for downloading some tracks. |
2. Interact with other music fans and artists, receiving feedback and support. | 2. Premium features or services may require payment. |
3. Explore opportunities and gigs to showcase or discover new talent. | 3. Possibility of encountering spam or low-quality content on the site. |
Audiomack
The site offers free music downloads of hip-hop, rap, R&B, electronic, and reggae music. You can browse by trending, top songs, top albums, or featured playlists. You can also create your playlists and share them with others.
Some of the features of Audiomack are:
- You can download music in MP3 format.
- You can stream music online or offline with the Audiomack app or web player.
- You can follow your favorite artists and get notified of their new releases.
- You can upload your music and reach millions of listeners.
Some of the pros and cons of Audiomack are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
1. Enjoy a wide range of music from different genres and cultures. | 1. Account creation or social media login may be required for some downloads. |
2. Discover new and upcoming artists and tracks before they hit the mainstream. | 2. Watching ads or listening to sponsored content may be necessary to access certain music options and features. |
3. Support independent musicians and producers by tipping them or providing feedback. | 3. Some songs or albums exclusive to other platforms may not be available. |
Bensound
Bensound is a site that provides free music downloads of royalty-free music for your videos, podcasts, animations, games, or other projects. You can choose from genres such as acoustic, cinematic, corporate, jazz, pop, rock, urban, or world.
Some of the features of Bensound are:
- You can download music in MP3 format.
- You can use the music for personal or commercial purposes without any attribution.
- You can buy a license to access more music options and features.
- You can request custom music for your specific needs.
Some of the pros and cons of Bensound are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
1. Find high-quality and professional music for your projects. | 1. Crediting the author or the site may be required to use the free music version. |
2. Enhance your projects with different moods and atmospheres. | 2. Payment may be necessary for a license to use the music for specific purposes or platforms. |
3. Save time and money by using royalty-free music. | 3. Some genres or styles that suit your taste or project may not be available. |
CCTrax
CCTrax is a site offering free music downloads of licensed creative commons. You can browse by genre, label, artist, or license. You can also listen to curated playlists or podcasts on CCTrax. CCTrax is a great place to find diverse and experimental music for your projects.
Some of the features of CCTrax are:
- You can download music in MP3 format.
- You can stream music online with the CCTrax web player.
- You can filter music by license type, such as attribution, non-commercial, share-alike, or no derivatives.
- You can access reviews and ratings from other users.
Some of the pros and cons of CCTrax are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
1. Find unique and innovative music from different genres and labels. | 1. check license terms and conditions before using the music for your projects. |
2. Use the music for personal or commercial purposes with proper attribution. | 2. Registration or login may be required for downloading some tracks. |
3. Explore new sounds and styles from different cultures and backgrounds. | 3. Potential for encountering technical issues or errors on the site. |
ccMixter
ccMixter is a site that allows you to download free music from remixes, samples, and acapella. You can browse by genre, instrument, mood, or license. You can also create your remixes and share them with others.
Some of the features of ccMixter are:
- You can download music in MP3 file format.
- You can participate in remix contests and challenges and win prizes and recognition.
- You can collaborate with other music creators and learn from them.
- You can access royalty-free music for your projects.
Some of the pros and cons of ccMixter are:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
1. Find creative and original music, including remixes, samples, and acapella. | 1. Sign up or login may be required to download some tracks. |
2. Express your musical talent and style by creating your remixes. | 2. Some premium features or services on the site may require payment. |
3. Use the music for personal or commercial purposes with proper attribution. | 3. Some songs or albums exclusive to other platforms may not be available. |
Conclusion
As you can see, many sites offer free music downloads legally. You can choose the one that suits your taste, preference, and purpose. You can enjoy millions of songs without worrying about breaking laws or paying fees. You can also support the mainstream artists and musicians who create the music by giving them feedback, tips, or purchases. Music is a universal language that can connect us all. I hope you find this article helpful and informative. Thank you for reading, and happy listening!