Putting less then 10 seconds of a copyright song?

[PinProject]

I've always wondered this and have seen it on other channels, but can you use 10 seconds of a copyright song in a video and still be legal? Like is there a specific amount of a song we can use before it becomes illegal to use?

 

[Jawad Soomro]

I have used around 5 seconds of song, I didnt get any strike

 

[Fezstar]

Copyright = Copyright at the end of the day!
If someone else's property is in your video file, even for a brief amount of time, you're still stealing someone else's intellectual property!
HOWEVER, when on youtube, go to creator studio, then on the left hit "create", then hit audio library and search for the song there.

More than likely the song you are looking for is in that library (which has a TONNE of songs with full copyright info, latest, older ones, anything!) and will provide the limitations there!

Chances are you are allowed to use the song, just not monetise that video!

 

[Tarmack]

I have used around 5 seconds of song, I didnt get any strike

That's great legal advice. /s

 

[markkaz]

Is there a specific amount of a song we can use before it becomes illegal to use?

There is no amount of copyrighted material that gives you complete authority to use it. That goes for movies, music, still visuals, etc. Copyright means that somebody owns the right to how that material is used.

Now, if you were making a news article or a review and you were giving a critique of a 10 second snippet, you could argue that it is under 'fair use' that you can use a sample. But if the rightful owner files a claim, you would have to take them to court and fight for your right of 'fair use'.

These things are not cut and dry. Even the Eiffel Tower can cause issues. You can use your own daytime pictures but not night time. Here is an interesting read.

http://artlawjournal.com/night-photos-eiffel-tower-violate-copyright/