​YouTube Content ID is an advanced digital fingerprinting system that enables copyright owners to manage their copyrighted content on YouTube. Developed by Google, this robust system scans uploaded videos against a database of files submitted by copyright holders. When a match is found, Content ID applies the copyright owner's specified policy—whether to monetize, track, or block the video. This ensures that copyright owners can protect their rights while also allowing for the fair use of content on the platform.

You'll see the option to add YouTube Content ID on the first page of the upload flow. Simply tick the box and we'll do the rest for you.

When you opt in to include your release in Record Union's YouTube Content ID, your content is monetized in the following way:

1. Content Tracking: Record Union's YouTube Content ID system scans all videos on YouTube for instances of your music.

2. Claiming: When a match is found, Record Union places a claim on the video.

3. Monetization Policy: You can choose to monetize the claimed video by allowing ads to run on it.

4. Royalty Payment: We collect revenue generated from the video and we add it to your balance. This system allows you to earn money whenever your music is used in videos across YouTube, not just in your own videos, but also in those uploaded by other users. It's a way for you to benefit from the wide reach of YouTube without having to manage the complex process of tracking and claiming content yourself.

To be eligible for Record Union's YouTube Content ID, a user's musical release must meet the following criteria:
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1. Ownership: The user must have full ownership of the music, including both recording and publishing rights.

2. Original Content: The music must be original and not contain any copyrighted material that the user does not have rights to.

3. Exclusive Sounds: The music must be 100% original with all sounds recorded by the user or for which the user has an exclusive license to use, ensuring no one else will use those sounds in their tracks.

4. No Sample Libraries: The music should not include beats, loops, or sound effects downloaded from sample libraries. This includes free sounds that come with software like Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, etc.

5. No Unauthorized Samples: The music must not contain samples from other songs, movies, TV shows, podcasts, video games, YouTube videos, etc.

6. No Public Domain or Covers: The release should not include public domain recordings, cover songs, remixes, or mashups.

7. Content Claiming: The music should be claimable through Content ID, and the user must demonstrate a need for the service. By adhering to these comprehensive criteria, users can ensure their music is eligible for monetization through Record Union's YouTube Content ID system. It's important to note that Record Union may have additional specific requirements or steps to complete the application process, so it's recommended to check their official guidelines or contact their support for detailed information.

Have you received a copyright claim notification from YouTube? This may occur if you've registered your music with Record Union's YouTube Content ID service. Here's what you need to know:

When you register your music with Record Union's YouTube Content ID, YouTube initiates a comprehensive scan for any videos on its platform that include your tracks.
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If a match is detected, YouTube activates monetization on the video in question. The resulting revenue is then collected by Record Union and subsequently distributed to you as part of your royalties.

YouTube informs the uploader of the video about the Content ID claim, indicating that monetization rights related to the matched sound recording has been transferred due to the matched content.

It's important to distinguish this process from receiving a copyright strike. A copyright strike is issued when a copyright owner files a legal takedown notice against content that infringes their copyright.

This will also apply to any videos you have posted on YouTube that contain music you then register with Content ID via Record Union. If you are happy for Record Union to collect this revenue for you, you don't need to do anything and your videos will stay online.

If you want to allow certain videos, either that you or other parties have posted on YouTube, to use your music without Content ID claims, you will need to reach out to the support team who can help get these claims removed.

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