Free music

Free music or libre music is music that, like free software, can freely be copied, distributed and modified for any purpose. Thus free music is either in the public domain or licensed under a free license by the artist or copyright holder themselves, often as a method of promotion. It does not mean that there should be no fee involved. The word free refers to freedom (as in free software), not to price.

The Free Music Philosophy generally encourages creators to free music using whatever language or methods they wish. A Free Music Public License (FMPL) is available for those who prefer a formal approach. Some free music is licensed under licenses that are intended for software (like the GPL) or other writings (the GFDL). But there are also licenses especially for music and other works of art, such as EFF's Open Audio License, LinuxTag's Open Music License, the Free Art license and some of the Creative Commons Licences.

History

Before the advent of copyright law in the early 18th century and its subsequent application to music compositions first, all music was "free" according to the definitions used in free software or free music, since there were no copyright restrictions. In practice however, music reproduction was generally restricted to live performances and the legalities of playing other people's music was unclear in most jurisdictions. Copyright laws changed this gradually so much so that in the late 20th century, copying a few words of a musical composition or a few seconds of a sound recording, the two forms of music copyright, could be considered criminal infringement.

Latest News for: Free music stores

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Silverthorne to host First Friday Rollerama event

Summit Daily 02 Apr 2025
An indoor roller rink will be set up in the Outlets at Silverthorne Blue Village, and surrounding stores will be providing free arts and crafts activities along with live music from DJ Nathan Yan....
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Progress Buc-ee's, work in Vero Beach and Fellsmere? Contrast Breeze, Brightline | Opinion

TCPalm 27 Mar 2025
It was free money ... Little Falls had two music stores, four pharmacies, pool halls, malt shops where we hung out as kids, and several cigar stores. Now the only place to buy underwear is the Dollar store or Walmart ... Kyle Clark, Vero BeachDeSantis believes in 'free' state of Florida, if ... I think the "free" referenced by Gov....
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Free Faith-Based Family 3-Day ‘321 Fest’ Opens Friday at Space Coast Daily Park

Space Coast Daily 19 Mar 2025
Live music performances will feature talented local and regional artist ... What’s in store? Epic giveaways, delicious food trucks, live music, giant inflatables, face painting, balloon animals, exciting kids’ games, inspirational guest speakers, and so much more! Don’t miss out on this big celebration IN BREVARD —everyone’s invited!....
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Country singer Brad Paisley headed to Illinois State Fair

Journal Gazette 18 Mar 2025
During a two-day event starting Friday, 400 families will shop at a free toy store, stocked with brand new toys, video games, stuffed animals, scooters, clothes, makeup and musical instruments ... During a two-day event starting Friday, 400 families will shop at a free toy store, ......

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