Monetizing Facebook videos that use background music depends entirely on who owns the rights to the audio. If the music is copyrighted and you do not have permission or licensing, Facebook will restrict monetization. But some types of music are safe — and creators can monetize legally with the right approach.
This guide explains Facebook’s music rules, what is allowed, what leads to demonetization, and how creators can safely use background music without losing monetization or facing copyright violations.
Understanding How Music Affects Facebook Monetization
Facebook uses an automated music recognition system to detect copyrighted music inside videos. This includes background songs, ambient audio, music from speakers, or tracks used in editing. When the system detects copyrighted audio, it checks whether the creator has a license or whether the audio is on Facebook’s “Allowed Music” list.
If the music is not licensed or not permitted for monetization, Facebook immediately applies restrictions to the video — including limited or zero ad revenue. In some cases, the video becomes blocked entirely in certain countries.
Music You CAN Monetize on Facebook
- Facebook’s Allowed Music Library — free music created specifically for monetization.
- Royalty-free licensed tracks from platforms like Epidemic Sound, Artlist, etc.
- Original music you composed (you keep 100% rights).
- Purchased usage rights with a downloadable license document.
These are the safest audio sources because they come with clear commercial-use rights. If a dispute occurs, creators can upload license proof and restore monetization.
Music That CANNOT Be Monetized
The following types of audio will instantly remove monetization:
- Popular commercial music (Afrobeats, Hip Hop, Pop, Gospel, etc.)
- Music from Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, Audiomack
- Background music captured in events or public places
- TV shows, movies, or game soundtracks
Even if the music plays at low volume, Facebook’s system still detects it. Monetization loss is automatic — not personal.
Why Some Creators Still Earn While Using Popular Music
Some creators earn revenue even with copyrighted music because:
- The copyright owner has approved monetization sharing.
- Facebook has a revenue-sharing agreement with the label.
- The creator is in the Music Revenue Sharing program.
However, not all music is eligible — only certain tracks approved for Music Revenue Sharing. If you upload a random song, monetization will still be removed.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Music Safely
Step 1 — Use only licensed or royalty-free tracks.
Step 2 — Keep a copy of the music license. Facebook may request verification.
Step 3 — Avoid background noise in public places. Record in clean environments.
Step 4 — Check Facebook’s Music Policies regularly. The library changes.
Step 5 — Avoid using TikTok or Instagram sound audios when monetizing.
Case Study: How One Creator Restored Monetization
A cooking creator in Kenya used a popular gospel song in the background of her tutorial video. Facebook demonetized it instantly. After removing the audio, replacing it with a royalty-free track, and reuploading the video:
- Monetization was restored
- The video reached more audiences
- RPM improved because the video was now eligible for all ad placements
The lesson: Always control your background audio.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using trending TikTok or Reels music in monetized uploads
- Adding famous songs under “fair use” (this doesn’t work on Facebook)
- Uploading videos with public event noise
- Using music you “don’t know is copyrighted” — ignorance is not a defense
Related reading:
Final Thought
Yes — you can monetize Facebook videos with background music, but only if you use the right kind of audio. Facebook is extremely strict with copyrighted music, and automatic detection makes mistakes impossible to hide. When in doubt, always choose licensed, royalty-free, or Facebook-approved music.
Disclaimer: This guide explains Facebook’s audio monetization rules based on current policies. Music licensing agreements change frequently. Always verify audio rights and check Facebook’s official guidelines before uploading monetized videos. Educational content only.
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