Sarah Ali, the senior director of product management for YouTube Shorts, Creative, and Community, announced on February 15, 2024, a major breakthrough for content creators: the ability to remix music videos directly on YouTube Shorts.
How the remix works
YouTube Shorts recently introduced four new remix features. These options allow the creation of personalized videos using content from various music artists. The available features are as follows:
- Sound: To take the sound of an existing video and integrate it into their own creation on Shorts.
- Collaborate: To create choreographies or other forms of creative collaboration alongside official music videos.
- Green Screen: To use a music video as a background, simplifying the recording of reactions or additional content in real time.
- Cut: Users can select and reuse specific segments of music videos in their own short videos.
To use this feature, simply click on a button called "Remix,” which is located under each music video. Thanks to this feature, it is possible to watch music videos on repeat and have access to a vast catalog of licensed music.
A strategy to compete with TikTok
By adding the remix option to its platform, YouTube seems to want to compete with TikTok. The video sharing site is constantly developing new ways to retain its audience and attract new users.
In recent times, TikTok has greatly gained popularity, undermining YouTube in the field of short videos.
This initiative could therefore allow YouTube to gain in attractiveness, particularly among young users who are very fond of original musical creations.
An expanding musical catalog
YouTube now offers an even wider selection of songs for users of its Shorts platform. Agreements concluded with several major record labels allow videographers to benefit from a substantial and varied selection for their musical remixes.
The repertoire offers titles from different styles and eras and guarantees diversity, which is appreciated by music lovers.
Opening the remix to all users
Previously reserved for a privileged few, the Remix tool is now accessible to all YouTube Shorts videographers.
A handy tool for content creators
This new option makes life much easier for music video creators on YouTube. From now on, they have access to a wide choice of licensed music, which avoids copyright problems.
Innovate to seduce?
The addition of new music remix options for shorts highlights YouTube's desire to continually innovate in order to maintain its place in the short-form video market. Increased competition with TikTok is pushing the platform to redouble its efforts to captivate its audience.
It is likely that YouTube will continue on this path, offering ever more new features to its users. The challenge is not only to compete with TikTok but also to assert itself as a leader in the world of video sharing.