Sound Effects (SFX)
A sound effect is an artificially created or modified sound that does not contain any melodic or harmonic content related to a musical composition.
Spoken Word
Recordings consisting solely of speech or dialogue, with no melody.
Podcasts / Radio Shows / Album Commentary
Recorded interviews, descriptions, or programs that may include or exclude music content.
Sound-a-likes
Sound-a-likes are recordings that attempt to imitate and infringe upon the original copyright of a musical work or recording. For example, the recording may be released under a name or likeness of an original artist, where the impersonating performer “pretends” to be the original artist, or the title suggests endorsement by the rights holder, affiliated entity, or artist. This should not be confused with covers, which are legally licensed by the original rights holder.
Unauthorized Tracks
Content that likely infringes on the rights of others by using their recordings wholly or partially without a license. This includes slowed down, sped up, or reverb-altered versions, as well as unauthorized use in music created using generative AI.
Unauthorized DJ Mixes and Extended Mixes
Mixes made of multiple individual tracks played sequentially, without proper authorization.
Production Library Music
Also known as stock music; licensed for use in film, television, radio, or online. Includes background tracks, loops, royalty-free music, and non-exclusively licensed music (paid or free) intended for use as background content. Original soundtracks are excluded from this category.
Public Domain
A work is considered public domain if the copyright on both the composition and the master recording has expired, and it can be used, modified, or adapted without the need for a license.
Insufficiently Distinct Recordings
Recordings where the music is not sufficiently distinguishable from other legitimate recordings or public domain material to be considered unique.
Relaxation, Meditation, Yoga, or Sleep Music
Recordings using soundscapes and effects, with minimal or no melody, intended as background audio in spas, meditation, or public environments.
Karaoke
Backing tracks of popular songs recreated by a third party with most or all vocal and lyrical content removed. This category includes karaoke tracks provided by the original rights holder and excludes instrumental versions of tracks.