What are the monetization requirements for YouTube Content ID?

For your music to be eligible for the YouTube Content ID system, it has to meet several criteria.

Exclusive rights

This means the following are not eligible:

  • Cover songs
  • Content licensed non-exclusively from a third party (Ex: Beatstars or YouTube instrumentals)
  • Content released under Creative Commons or similar free of charge/open licenses
  • Public domain footage, recordings, or compositions, including classical music
  • Clips from other sources (Ex: video games, movies, TV, YouTube videos)

Distinct reference content

All reference content must be sufficiently distinct. This means the following are not eligible:

  • Karaoke recordings, remasters, sound-alike recordings, live versions that are not distinct from the original version, and dubbed content
  • Sound effects, soundbeds, or production loops (Ex: audience applauses, white noise or drum loops)

A single distinct piece

This means the following are not eligible:

  • Continuous DJ mixes
  • Mashups
  • Countdown lists
  • Full album or full compilation recordings

Even if you exclusively own all of the content within these types of examples in all territories, you must separate them into individual components, songs, or videos.

Recording of a non-musical work

This means the following are not eligible:

  • Audiobooks
  • ASMR
  • Podcasts
  • Speeches
  • Comedy recordings
  • Film recordings
  • Prayers
  • Video gameplay footage

Track duration exceeding 10 minutes

Sound recordings that exceed a duration of 10 minutes are flagged as ineligible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A more detailed FAQ section and documentation can be accessed through the Ziddi Artist Portal.

Ziddi is a digital music distribution service designed to help independent artists get their music on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. Plus, we offer awesome extras like merchandising, direct selling, revenue tracking, and more—all in one place.

Getting started is easy! Simply select a plan, sign up to our platform, upload your music, and that's it! We’ll guide you through every step of the way, so you don’t have to stress about the details. 

Your music will be everywhere fans listen—Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, JioSaavn, YouTube Music, and tons of other streaming platforms. Basically, if there’s a place for music, Ziddi gets you there. Check out the full list of stores we distribute to here.

Whether you're just starting out or an established artist, we’ve got options for everyone starting from ₹799/- only. Check out full pricing details here.

Absolutely! At Ziddi, you retain 100% ownership of your music and all related rights. We’re here to support your journey, not to take control of your creations.

You sure can! With Ziddi, you can design and sell merch like T-shirts, hoodies, and hoodies. It’s a great way to connect with your fans and boost your income. 

Yes, you can! Switching to Ziddi is straightforward. You’ll just need to ensure your music is removed from your current distributor before re-releasing it through Ziddi. We’ll guide you through the process to make sure your tracks stay live with minimal disruption. Plus, our team is here to answer any questions and help make the transition smooth and stress-free.

No worries! Just drop us a line at [email protected]—we’d love to help you out!

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