Some common lo-fi music related questions and topics to be discussed in this article. I hope you find them worth reading. I will be answering them both from my perspective as a lo-fi music artist and objectively (the much I can) linking external sources if needed.
Is lo-fi music copyrighted?
It is a common question I often see on Quora and other sources. Now, I am not a legal expert (also noting that different countries might have different legal environment that affects this question), however here is what I think. All music is copyrighted from the point the author finished and released it. I mean it is like when you draw something. At the end, it is your artwork. You may decide to let people use it for free. The same for lo-fi music (or any other): you may release it with Distrokid or any other distributor services. Here you can add YouTube Content ID so that your music will be automatically listed on the world’s biggest video service provider.
On the other hand, you may also sell it to a stock music reseller such as Adobe Stock or AudioJungle, where they most likely ask you not to ID your music. Clearly as they aim to sell your music becoming part of a promotional video etc, that will be obviously uploaded to YouTube and other channels.
Still it does not mean you can nick these songs as the stock providers also have their tools to track every single products they are selling (and eligible to fine for that).
Long story short I generally treat every music as a copyrighted one and carefully read the owners note before downloading. I also make screenshots of that page and store them to prove my legal use later if needed. Is it a hassle? Yes! But probably worth doing so, respecting the author but also making sure that you use everything (let it be music or else) fair.
Is lo-fi music good for you?
This is quite a subjective question. I mean let us step a bit back: Is music good for you? Quoting the Time magazine: yes it is, it helps you reduce your stress level, boost your mood and even improve your sleep.
In fact it answers already another question that is quite popular: Is lo-fi music good for sleep?
However and returning to the “lo-fi” part of it. I read several articles on the topic. One thing is sure: it might be much better than many other music genres. Why? Lo-fi music is generally monotonous, no harsh changes in the rhythm or melodies. It also has a rich texture yet from melodies perspective if offers less melody lines, ending up being more clear and harmonious. Lo-fi music is also pretty much instrumental and optimised for less dynamics and more levelled volume. Furthermore true vinyl music has its unique hisses and cracks making the vibe more comfy. At least for me.
Again, I am not a scientist, still I’d personally say lo-fi music is good for you and listening to it before you fell asleep is rather helping you.
What are lo-fi music?
I had a longer article on this topic before, please refer to this one to find your answer.
Can I use lo-fi music on YouTube?
Yes and no. I as a lo-fi music producer can use my own music anytime on any channels I choose (and whitelist these channels). However, as it has been covered above: most lo-fi music is copyrighted. Therefore every music pieces to be reviewed before being used. Certain artists let you use their music free, others require crediting. Again other artists ask for royalty. If you have found a music you wish to feature on your YouTube page, please check the artist (using Shazam or similar) and find his/her page. Contact and ask for the conditions for fair use.
Can Alexa play lo-fi music?
Sure, why not? I do not have Alexa, Amazon services are not widely available in Hungary. But Alexa is to search several databases and offer you the best possible answer. You just need to ask for lo-fi music properly. Like “lo-fi hip hop” or “lo-fi playlist” etc. You may add words like “Spotify playlist” or from “Amazon Music” making it more clear for Alexa.
To be fair: if you have fave artist (Latte Chill maybe?) you can even name the artist helping Alexa’s search.
How to create lo-fi music?
In short: using your time and passion. For everything else I wrote about this quite long here. I included links where to get free samples, how to make lo-fi music on PC/laptop, smartphone or using physical samplers. You may spend 5 USD on the cheapest tool or invest more.
I believe there is no good way or one way to produce lo-fi music. It is more like which way fits your style better. I can also add that your way of music producing will be evolving and changing over time. After years of Ableton DAW use I spend more time now producing beats with my PO-33 KO.
Stay Home album (produced with laptop, DAW and midi keyboards)
Wabi-Sabi album (with PO-33 KO physical sampler)
How to pronounce lo-fi music?
Don’t over-complicate it. Coming from low fidelity. So “low-fi”. It is that simple.
Lo-fi music to download
Well, for personal use you can find many all over the internet. So, I guess no point in listing too much here. Surf Bandcamp for example, there are tons of artists uploading their music there. My profile is also available with 100+ free singles to download.
Lo-fi music without lyrics
This is a common search query but hey. Lo-fi music is generally instrumental. There are few examples with lyrics or more commonly with vocal chops. But personally I would say 2 out of 10 max. Clearly this is not an official stat but my estimation, but it should be pretty close. Most beat producers and lo-fi artists are not singers.
On the other hand if you are meaning lo-fi hip hop, well that is more common to feature rap artist. Keep in mind that lo-fi music is a great genre so it depends a lot on which sub-genre you like.
Best lo-fi study music
I find this topic a bit subjective. As stated before a bit more in-depth and generally speaking: all lo-fi beats are good for your study time. I would prefer looking for monotonous ones with basic melodies and some drums only. No vocals or chops. I tend to focus on lyrics, therefore eliminating it helps me focusing more on my studies. Literally the other text right in front of me.
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