How to Choose Music for YouTube Videos & Ads

Published September 13, 2023

Choosing the right music for YouTube videos & ads isn't just an afterthought—it's a key ingredient in the recipe for success on the platform. Think of music as the seasoning: it can elevate your content to new heights or make it completely unpalatable. Our team at SAS always has a blast selecting music for advertisements. Of course, that includes videos and ads on YouTube. With some of our latest placements like the Hyundai Genesis GV60 “Have Fun, Recharge, Repeat" campaign, we felt inspired to break down our process of picking the perfect music for YouTube videos & ads.

How to Choose Music for YouTube Videos & Ads

Understand Your Target Audience for Effective Music Selection

Before you can fully grasp how to choose music for YouTube videos & ads, you first need to identify your target audience. Their age, culture, and community can influence their musical preferences. Knowing this information can guide you in how to choose music for YouTube ads that will strike a chord with your intended viewers.

Defining the Objective and Tone: A Key Step in How to Choose Music for YouTube Ads

A fundamental aspect of how to choose music for YouTube ads is defining the objective and tone. Are you trying to introduce a new product, or maybe elevate brand awareness? The type of music you select should align with these objectives and enhance the overall tone of your message.

Royalty-Free Vs. Licensed Music

As you navigate how to choose music for YouTube videos & ads, you'll encounter two primary options: royalty-free music and licensed music.

  • Royalty-Free: This is a budget-friendly option that allows you to use the music multiple times without recurring fees. However, these tracks are often generic and may be used by others.

  • Licensed Music: If you want exclusivity and greater impact, licensed music is the way to go. While it's often more expensive, it will make your ad stand out. To see what we have available, check out our catalog!

Consider the Format, Duration, and Timing: Another Big Factor for YouTube Ads

YouTube ads can range from 6-second bumper ads to 60-second narratives. Understanding how to choose music for YouTube ads means considering the length and pacing of your chosen track so that it fits seamlessly with your ad's duration. YouTube offers different formats such as skippable and non-skippable ads, each with its own time constraints. Make sure the music complements the length and format of your ad.

  • Skippable Ads: You have a very short time to grab the viewer's attention. Opt for music that starts strong and makes an immediate impact.
  • Non-Skippable Ads: You have a bit more time to tell a story. Choose a track that evolves, keeping the viewer engaged for the entire duration of the ad.

Matching Music with Visuals: An Art in How to Choose Music for YouTube Videos & Ads

When considering how to choose music for YouTube videos, always remember to harmonize the audio with the visuals. As the video or ad progresses, the music should evolve in tandem with the visual elements, offering a cohesive and engaging viewer experience.

A/B Testing: Refining How to Choose Music for YouTube Ads

You've shortlisted a few tracks and you're wondering how to choose music for YouTube ads from among them. The next logical step is A/B testing. This allows you to compare multiple options and see which music leads to better engagement and conversion rates.

Professional Consultation: How to Choose Music for YouTube Videos with Expert Help

Expertise matters! If you're still unsure about how to choose music for YouTube videos or ads, consider using our music supervision services to take the guesswork out of the equation. With the help of our music supervisors, we can tailor the music to the nuances of your brand and the ad's specific needs.

That's a Wrap!

So there you have it, a thorough explanation of how to choose music for YouTube videos & ads. Armed with this knowledge, you're well on your way to creating ads that not only look good but sound amazing too. If you're still unsure about how to choose music for YouTube videos or ads, connect with our team today!