Avoid Lawsuits: Should Your Business Use TikTok Commercial Sounds? [2025 Guide]

If you’re a business owner creating content on TikTok, you’ve likely asked yourself this very question. The viral power of trending sounds can seem irresistible—users recognize them instantly, engagement surges, and your brand could ride the wave into social media success. But before you hop on the next audio trend, you need to understand exactly what you’re risking.

Most business owners assume TikTok’s platform is free for all when it comes to music. It’s not. What works for personal users might get your business penalized or even sued. The key difference? Licensing. Using audio without the right permissions can backfire—big time. Whether you’re a local coffee shop, a lifestyle brand, or a digital creator with a Shopify store, knowing how to use TikTok’s sounds the right way protects both your content and your reputation.

Looking to align sound strategy with your brand visuals? Learn how to build professional designs with this guide on T-shirt branding and design for business.

Understanding the TikTok Commercial Music Library

The TikTok commercial music library is a curated collection of royalty-free, pre-cleared tracks that are safe for businesses to use on the platform. These sounds are specifically licensed for commercial purposes, meaning they can be used in sponsored content, advertisements, and branded videos without triggering copyright claims.

This library was created to help brands use music legally and confidently. It includes thousands of tracks across various genres, all vetted for business usage.

Are All Trending Sounds Safe for Business Use?

No, they’re not. Just because a sound is trending doesn’t mean it’s safe to use in your promotional videos. Most viral songs on TikTok are protected by copyright and are only cleared for personal (not commercial) use. If your account is set as a business profile and you use these protected tracks, your content might be muted or taken down.

Using Copyrighted Music for Business: A Legal Perspective

1.Commercial Use License Explained Simply

A commercial use license grants you permission to use a piece of music in promotional, branded, or revenue-generating content. It’s different from personal use, where music can be enjoyed privately or shared among friends without profit.

When you post as a business, you’re promoting a product or service, which instantly qualifies your content as “commercial.” That’s why using copyrighted songs without a license—even for a 15-second TikTok—can be risky.

2.Common Mistakes Businesses Make with Copyright

1. Assuming TikTok clears all content – Only tracks in the commercial library are safe.

2. Using personal accounts for brand videos – This still qualifies as commercial use if it promotes your brand.

3. Believing “fair use” applies – Fair use is limited and almost never applies to marketing content.

Benefits of TikTok’s Commercial Music Library for Businesses

• Protect Your Brand with Licensed Content

Using tiktok commercial sounds ensures your brand remains in good standing with TikTok’s terms and global copyright laws. You won’t have to worry about receiving takedown notices, copyright flags, or worse—legal threats from music labels.

• Better Engagement Without Legal Headaches

When you select licensed music, you’re also choosing clarity. Your videos won’t get muted, blocked, or removed. Plus, TikTok’s algorithm supports content from business accounts that follow the rules.

Want to use voiceovers in your brand content too? This TikTok voice-to-text tutorial shows how to creatively integrate sound into your message.

Risks of Using Popular Songs Without Permission

Copyright Infringement: Real Examples and Penalties

In 2021, multiple small businesses saw their accounts suspended for using copyrighted pop songs in product promotion videos. These cases didn’t make headlines—but they made a big impact on affected companies who lost content, reach, and credibility.

How Fines, Takedowns, and Shadowbans Affect Businesses

• Takedowns: Your video disappears.

• Fines: You may be asked to pay licensing fees retroactively.

• Shadowbans: TikTok’s algorithm may limit visibility of your content due to repeated violations.

These penalties can hinder your growth, especially if your business depends on organic reach.

How to Properly Use TikTok Commercial Sounds in Your Content

1.Step-by-Step: Access and Use TikTok’s Commercial Music Library

1. Switch to a business account on TikTok.

2. Tap the + to create a video.

3. Click Add Sound.

4. Choose the “Commercial Sounds” tab.

5. Browse, preview, and select a track.

6. Use it in your content, stress-free!

2.Licensing Platforms and Legal Resources

Some brands also explore external music licensing libraries like Epidemic Sound, Artlist, and Soundstripe for broader access to commercial music. These platforms offer clear commercial licenses you can reference during audits.

Comparison Table: Licensed vs. Unlicensed Sounds for Business

Real-World Case Study: A Small Brand That Got It Right

A UK-based skincare brand wanted to launch a TikTok ad campaign. Initially, they used a trending pop track and had their video muted. After switching to licensed tiktok commercial sounds, their views doubled, customer engagement increased, and they maintained full visibility without issues.

Their strategy? Build a custom playlist using TikTok’s commercial music, post consistently, and align sound with message tone. The result: 45% higher click-through rates and zero copyright concerns.

Best Practices for Using TikTok Sounds in Commercial Content

1.Build a Sound Strategy: Playlist Curation Tips

• Stick to music in the commercial sound library.

• Choose tracks that reflect your brand personality.

• Avoid copying audio trends used by non-business creators.

2.Monitor Licensing Status and Stay Compliant

Keep documentation of all licenses, especially if you use external sound sources. Monitor changes in TikTok’s music policy regularly to stay ahead of updates.

Resources to Improve Your Social Audio Strategy

1.Tools, Templates, and Tutorials You Should Know

• TikTok Business Center – Offers guides and music usage tips.

• Canva’s Video Creator – Great for pairing visuals and licensed sound.

• AudioJungle – Offers one-off licensed audio clips.

2.Enhance Your Creative Process With Canva and More

Looking to monetize your brand designs while using TikTok legally? Try this guide on making money with Canva—perfect for entrepreneurs using visual and audio content.

Could You Be Sued Just for Using a Trending Sound? (Critical Legal Insights Most Businesses Miss)

Even using a 10-second clip of a popular song can land your brand in hot water if it’s not properly licensed. And in recent years, lawsuits over social media music usage have ramped up—not against influencers or individuals, but against companies, schools, and even nonprofits.

So what does this mean for your business?

• Every sound used in marketing content must be properly cleared or come from a licensed source.

• Being a small business doesn’t exempt you from copyright enforcement.

• “I didn’t know” is not a valid defense in copyright court.

The Real Difference Between TikTok’s Commercial Library and Trending Audio

TikTok’s commercial music library isn’t just a safer option—it’s a legal safety net.

Think of it this way: licensed sounds are cleared and vetted, giving you full freedom to advertise, promote, and boost content using them. Trending sounds, on the other hand, are almost always under license agreements that only cover personal use on the platform. Using them in a sponsored video, product demo, or brand announcement can trigger copyright claims, takedowns, or even legal letters from record labels.

Here’s a deeper comparison:

When Is Your Business Account at Risk? (4 Early Warning Signs)

Even if you haven’t received a takedown yet, there are red flags that suggest you may already be on thin legal ice:

1. Muted videos after publishing.

2. Copyright notices in your TikTok inbox.

3. Unusual drop in engagement or reach (a shadowban).

4. Video removed without detailed explanation.

If you see any of these signs, you should immediately review the sounds in your content and confirm they come from TikTok’s commercial library or a licensed third-party source.

Safe Alternatives to Popular Audio for Business Use

If TikTok’s commercial sound selection feels limited, you can expand your library legally through external platforms,  These tools provide commercial licenses you can use across multiple channels (TikTok, YouTube, Reels, etc.):

• Epidemic Sound – Subscription-based with business licenses.

• Artlist – Offers global licenses for ads and branded content.

• Envato Elements – Includes royalty-free audio and design templates.

• Soundstripe – Great for quick, one-off commercial licenses.

Always download and save a copy of your licensing certificate in case you need to prove authorization later.

Can Brand Audio Become a Competitive Edge?

Absolutely. Just as brands develop a logo or tagline, having a consistent “audio identity” can set your content apart in a sea of sameness.

This might be:

• A recurring jingle or background loop that aligns with your brand’s mood.

• A familiar intro melody in all your videos.

• A branded voice (real or AI) used for product demos or storytelling.

Sound becomes memory. When customers hear your signature sound repeatedly, it builds recall and trust—two essential assets in brand marketing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use trending TikTok songs if I’m not selling anything?

Even if your video isn’t directly selling a product, it could still be considered commercial if it promotes your brand.

Q2: Are there free commercial songs for business accounts?

Yes, TikTok’s commercial library is free and constantly updated for business users.

Q3: What if I edit or remix a popular song?

Even edited or remixed versions of copyrighted tracks require proper licensing for commercial use.

Q4: How can I tell if a song is safe to use?

If it’s in TikTok’s commercial music library or licensed through a verified source, it’s safe. Otherwise, assume it’s protected.

Q5: Will TikTok notify me if I use a song I shouldn’t?

Sometimes. But not always. It’s best to be proactive and verify your licenses in advance.

Learn how TikTok commerce works in this powerful TikTok Shop guide for creators.

Final Thoughts: Think Before You Post

Using music in your business content isn’t just about what sounds good—it’s about what’s legal and smart. Tiktok commercial sounds offer you a safe, effective, and professional way to engage your audience without legal trouble. Make the switch today, and post with confidence.