As a Breakthrough partner, you are creating content inside a paid subscription app. That means music licensing works differently than it would for a personal class, a free video, or your own playlist.
This guide will help you understand what you can and cannot use, where to find safe options, and how to secure the right licenses.
❌ Music You Cannot Use
Consumer streaming services
Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and similar platforms are only licensed for personal listening. They do not allow redistribution, background use in recordings, or inclusion in commercial apps.
Unlicensed popular music
If you did not create it or purchase a license, you cannot use it. This applies even if the music is faint in the background. Paid apps are considered commercial distribution, so these rules always apply.
“Fair use” assumptions
Using a short clip, lowering the volume, or letting music play quietly does not qualify as fair use. In wellness content behind a paywall, a license is always required.
✅ Music You Can Use
Royalty-free music libraries
Licensed services that allow commercial use in apps, videos, and subscription platforms. Examples include:
Epidemic Sound
Artlist
PremiumBeat
AudioJungle
Soundstripe
Original music
Music you compose and record yourself, or collaborations where the composer gives you written permission for commercial use.
Commercially licensed tracks
Songs purchased with a license that specifically covers commercial use in digital apps. Always keep the license in writing with clear terms of use.
📝 How to Get a License
From a music library
Subscribe or purchase tracks that include commercial rights. Save license documents for your records in case of audits.
From an artist or composer
Ask for a written license agreement that explicitly covers use in a paid subscription app. Pay licensing fees directly to the rights holder.
From a licensing agency
Agencies like Musicbed or Songtradr arrange licenses for commercial use. Pricing varies depending on the track’s popularity and distribution scope.
📂 Best Practices
Treat background music the same as foreground music. If it is audible, it requires a license.
Keep a dedicated folder with all license files for your app content.
When unsure, rely on royalty-free libraries or your own original music.
Breakthrough may request proof of license for any track you use.
🔒 Why This Matters
Breakthrough is the official publisher of your app, which means we are responsible for making sure all content complies with copyright and App Store rules. If unlicensed music is detected, Apple or Google could remove your app.
By using properly licensed music, you protect your app, your content, and your community.