Free music vs. AI-generated music: Which is better for me?

4 Min.

If you only have a small budget for your projects and can’t spend a larger budget on self-composed music or licenses, you fortunately have a large selection of different options for obtaining suitable music these days.
The question“Should we use free or AI-generated music for our current project?” was recently posed by one of our customers.
Together with him, and based on our experience in the field of audio and AI, we were able to give him a well-founded recommendation.
We are happy to share our findings with you here to help you make your decision.

Free music using Pixabay as an example

Pixabay offers a variety of free music tracks and sound effects created by different artists.

Pro:

Created by real artists, therefore clear legal situation.
Over 90,000 free sound effects available.

Contra:

Long search times to find suitable music.
Different license conditions, not always suitable for commercial use.

AI-generated music using the example of Suno

Suno is an innovative AI music generator that creates unique pieces of music in a matter of seconds.

Pro:

Quickly create unique pieces of music.
Possibility to customize genre, style, mood and instruments.
Flexible and customizable for different projects.

Contra:

Commercial use requires a paid subscription.
Requires practice and precise input for optimum results.
Unclear legal situation with AI-generated content, as this can change constantly.

How does the generation of songs by AI actually work?

Let’s go through the example using the Suno platform: First we create an account, then you can describe the song you have in mind in the song description (left in the picture), similar to all AI programs: the more precisely described, the better.
Then 2 variants of songs are created for the description entered. Both instrumentals and vocals with lyrics can be generated, which doesn’t sound too bad in our opinion, especially if you need a song as background music, the creations are very suitable.

Conclusion

Both options offer advantages and challenges.
Free music from platforms like Pixabay can be a good choice for projects with clear licensing requirements and no pressing timelines.
AI-generated music from providers such as Suno, on the other hand, offers high flexibility and fast results, but requires a better understanding of the technology and may require additional costs for commercial usage rights.
It is important to always check the terms of use and license requirements to ensure that the music can be used legally.
Especially in the AI sector, the legal requirements and terms of use change quite frequently at the moment, so special attention should be paid to this.
Regardless of whether you choose free or AI-generated music, always consider the aspects of visibility, brand development and the requirements of your own project.

Further aspects

Digitization helper: AI-generated music can change your digital routine more efficiently.
Innovative strength: utilize the possibilities of AI helpersto realize creative and innovative projects.
Helping people to help themselves: Both options offer support in the implementation of creative ideas, be it through broad music libraries or through the adaptability of AI tools.

For the best results in your project, you should decide for yourself and choose the most suitable music option carefully, but also keep all legal aspects in mind. Curious to find out more? Our contacts will be happy to help you: Katharina Zauner +49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 53zauner@twobe.deLinkedIn