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Content ID Policy Guidelines (YouTube)

  • Updated

Introduction

This article explains the eligibility guidelines for claiming sound recordings via YouTube’s Content ID (CID) system using asset rights claims in the FUGA platform. Clients must ensure they hold exclusive copyrights and avoid submitting content that violates YouTube's or FUGA’s content eligibility standards.

Overview of Eligibility

FUGA offers a combined platform feed for YouTube Music and Content ID. Clients can deliver sound recordings to both services simultaneously via this feed. Delivery behavior depends on the monetization settings applied in the FUGA Platform, and these settings apply individually at the asset (track) level:

  • If monetization is turned off (Asset Rights Claim set to "None") on all assets within a release, the product will be delivered to YouTube Music only.
  • If monetization is turned on (Asset Rights Claim set to "Monetize") on one or more assets, and the release adheres to YouTube’s eligibility policies, those assets may be delivered to Content ID.

⚠️ If any asset within a release is set to "Monetize" but is determined to be ineligible based on YouTube’s guidelines, the entire product may be rejected—even if other assets within the same release are set to "None".

To claim sound recordings via Content ID (CID), you must hold exclusive rights to the recording and ensure the content is not already publicly available under alternative licenses or uses. When a valid claim is submitted, revenue can be generated from User-Generated Content (UGC) on YouTube that uses the claimed asset.

You are responsible for ensuring your claims do not result in false identifications or interfere with legitimate uses. Misuse may result in disabled monetization, strikes, or penalties.

Ineligible Content Types

The following categories of content are ineligible for asset rights claims through Content ID (CID):

1. Non-exclusive Sound Recordings

  • Karaoke or sound-a-like recordings
  • Unofficial remixes
  • Various artist compilations, DJ mixes, or "Best Of" releases where exclusive rights to all recordings are not held
  • Live recordings not fully owned by the claiming party

2. Public Domain Content

  • Sound recordings or audio assets containing compositions where copyright has expired

3. Generic or Indistinct Content

  • Nature or ambient sounds
  • White noise, ASMR, binaural audio
  • Sound effects, loops, and meditative tracks (e.g., music for sleeping)
  • Demo tracks and soundbeds with minimal originality

4. Royalty-Free Production Music

  • Library music licensed for synchronization purposes (e.g., for use in TV, film, video games)
  • Content distributed under open, Creative Commons, or royalty-free licenses that can be reused by third parties

5. Non-Musical Audio Content

  • Audiobooks
  • Podcasts
  • Speeches and comedy routines
  • Film dialogue
  • Religious recitations or prayers

6. Multi-song or Mixed Assets

  • Continuous DJ mixes or track compilations submitted as a single asset
  • Mashups and countdown lists
  • Medleys

7. Video Game Music

  • Music created specifically for video games, such as original scores or background audio, is generally ineligible for Content ID unless you are the official publisher or have full exclusive rights
  • Exception: Licensed popular music not originally created for a video game may be eligible if exclusive rights are held

8. Cover Versions

  • Covers are acceptable only if:
    • A valid mechanical license is in place for the covered composition
    • The interpretation sounds distinctively different from the original song
  • Note: If the cover sounds too similar in melody, instrumentation, or beat, it will be considered ineligible for monetization

Important Notes

  • Always confirm you hold exclusive distribution and monetization rights before submitting an asset rights claim.
  • Claims submitted without proper rights may be contested or result in penalties.
  • Use caution when working with content derived from third-party libraries or contributors.
  • Please refer to the Downtown Music Content Policy, which applies to all content, metadata, and associated assets delivered to any Digital Service Provider (DSP) via the services of Downtown Music.

Troubleshooting

If your asset is rejected or flagged by YouTube Content ID:

  • Verify whether the asset matches any of the ineligible categories listed above
  • Check that your asset metadata accurately represents the content type and rights held
  • Contact your FUGA representative or reach out via support@fuga.com for guidance.

 

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