YouTube is rolling out a new AI-powered feature that enables creators to generate custom instrumental backing tracks for their videos. Announced via its Creator Insider channel this week, the update enhances the Creator Music marketplace by integrating AI-generated music capabilities based on user prompts.
The feature is being introduced gradually to creators who already have access to Creator Music—YouTube’s licensing platform launched in 2023 to simplify finding and using commercially licensed music. With the addition of AI-generated music, creators now have a free alternative to traditional licensing options.
Eligible users will notice a new “Music Assistant” tab within Creator Music. Here, they can describe the desired track by typing in prompts that include mood, instruments, genre, or the nature of the video. YouTube also provides example prompts to help users get started. Once generated, tracks can be downloaded and seamlessly added to video content.
Importantly, all AI-generated tracks are free to use, with no copyright concerns or claims.
Currently, Creator Music—and its new AI tools—is available exclusively to U.S.-based creators who are part of the YouTube Partner Program.
YouTube previously experimented with a similar AI feature called “Dream Track,” powered by DeepMind’s Lyria, which allowed users to create 30-second music clips mimicking the style of popular artists. According to YouTube’s help documentation, Dream Track is currently focused solely on generating instrumental music.
