The popularity of podcasting has skyrocketed.

According to 2021 Global Podcast Statistics, there are currently1,750,000active podcasts around the world.

It seems that everyone and their cousin started a podcast during quarantine, and why not?

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But there are key elements that could grind your podcast to a halt before it even begins.

Here are some things to consider when sourcing music for your (soon-to-be) successful podcast.

The parameters around sampling are confusing, and copyright-free listings can be misleading.

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Catlin says the common misconception is that a music sample of 10 seconds or less constitutes fair use.

According to Catlin, you should, assume thatanyuse is infringing.

Your podcast could be flagged for someone elses misstep.

The best way to avoid any possibility of infringement is to obtain permission from the songs owner.

Catlin suggests a licensing agreement, utilizing a royalty-free license, or buying the copyright outright.

Premium Beat offers a library of royalty-free music for licensing,pay per song, or monthly.

For $12.99 a month, you have access to five new licenses each month.

With a valid subscription, music licenses can be used as much as you like in perpetuity.

The important thing is to read the fine print.

Some may require the site or owner to be credited appropriately.

If you do not copy it exactly, then you may face legal repercussions, says Catlin.

If you create a song in GarageBand for use in your podcast, you are the copyright owner.

You still need permission from that creator to include their music in your podcast.