Stellar Flash calls for stellar music. Just make sure it is not copyrighted.

Contrary to popular belief, Flash Artists are not under the radar of major music companies. The RIAA has a pretty firm grasp on what is going on in the Flash industry, and profittering without previous permission is against the law, regardless of country.

Can't I use the music if I own a CD or mp3 from Itunes?

No, because what you are buying is a license to play the music on the CD in the privacy of your own home... nothing more than that. You cannot use this music outside enjoying it for yourself.

I got the mp3 on the web for free, from a band who gives it away. Still okay?

No, because you are not licensed to use this music in a production of your own. If the band says "Go Nuts", then you are good to go. Otherwise, you need to ask.

I asked the band and they did not respond. Can I still use it?

Still No. These record companies are getting tons of email and letters. They may take a while to respond, and if you asked to use it for free, they most likely will tell you no anyway. There are several ways you can contact a record company.

1) Bypass the recording company, go straight to the band - Bypassing the record company means that you'll be talking straight to the source, and probably cutting through a lot of red tape. Try contacting the band by phone or letter, if possible, so you can talk directly to them.

2) Contact by Phone... don't rely on Email - Email is a quick and dirty dumpster for all the mail these companies are getting. Try calling the recording company to see if you can license the music. They are not bad guys... they are mere mortals who most likely want to talk to you.

3) Find Something Else... there's plenty of music out there, and a lot of it is free. Check out the free music sites.

4) Make it yourself! - It may be cheaper to just make a short loop on your own with some software. If you have previous music publishing experience, grab a trial program and let your imagination run!

What does royalty-free mean?

Royalty-free means that you may use the music in your project however you like, without worrying about cutting a profit towards the company. Royalty-free does NOT mean that you necessarily get to edit the piece, or get the track for free (you may have to pay up front). Read the details carefully before using.

What does public domain mean?

It means it is not necessarily owned by anyone... it is merely owned by the public. You may use this file however you wish. Feel free to chop it up and use it.

What are some good music licensing sites?

Free Music