SoundCloud is one of the largest music streaming platforms, offering a wide range of tracks from independent artists, well-known creators, and everything in between Soundcloud download. Whether you’re looking to save a song for offline listening or create a personal playlist, many users wonder how to download SoundCloud tracks legally. In this post, we’ll walk through some of the best and most ethical ways to download SoundCloud music, so you can enjoy your favorite tracks on the go.
1. Use SoundCloud’s Official Download Feature
The most straightforward and legal way to download music from SoundCloud is through the platform’s own features. Some artists allow their tracks to be downloaded for free, and SoundCloud offers an official download button for such tracks.
How to Download:
- Open the SoundCloud track you want to download.
- Look for a download button below the waveform or on the track’s page.
- If the button is available, simply click it, and the track will be saved to your device.
Note: Not all tracks are available for download. This depends on the artist’s settings. If the download option is not present, the track is not downloadable through this method.
2. SoundCloud Go+ Subscription
SoundCloud Go+ is a premium subscription service that offers a wide range of benefits, including offline listening. With this plan, you can download tracks legally for offline access within the app.
How to Download with SoundCloud Go+:
- Subscribe to SoundCloud Go+ via the app or website.
- Once you’ve subscribed, browse for your favorite tracks and playlists.
- Look for the “Download” button next to tracks that are available for offline listening.
- Tap the download button, and the music will be stored for offline use on the SoundCloud app.
Key Benefit: This is a legal and supported way to enjoy your music offline, but you can only access your downloaded content as long as your SoundCloud Go+ subscription remains active.
3. Check for Creative Commons Licenses
Many independent artists upload their music to SoundCloud under a Creative Commons (CC) license. Tracks licensed under these conditions can often be downloaded and shared legally, as long as the terms of the license are respected.
How to Find Creative Commons Music:
- Use the filter options on the SoundCloud search page to select “Creative Commons” under the license type.
- Alternatively, look for the “Download” link in the track description provided by the artist. If the track is licensed for reuse, it should be clearly stated.
- Before downloading, make sure you fully understand the type of Creative Commons license applied. Some licenses allow for personal use only, while others may permit modifications or commercial use with attribution.
Tip: Creative Commons music is a great option for discovering new artists while ensuring you respect copyright laws.
4. Third-Party Tools for Music You Own or Have Permission To Download
Sometimes, artists provide tracks for free download via external links or their own websites, and in these cases, third-party tools can help you download SoundCloud music legally. Always make sure that you have explicit permission from the artist to download their music or that it’s being provided for free by the creator.
Popular Third-Party Methods:
- Free Music Archive (FMA): Some tracks available on SoundCloud are also offered through the Free Music Archive, which provides free and legal downloads of songs under Creative Commons licenses.
- Bandcamp: If an artist provides links to their Bandcamp page via SoundCloud, you can often download tracks from Bandcamp legally, as many artists allow downloads for a set price or for free.
5. Purchasing Music Directly
Another legal way to support artists while downloading their music is by purchasing tracks or albums directly. Many artists use platforms like Bandcamp or their own websites to sell their music, and you can often find a link to purchase or download the music in their SoundCloud track descriptions.
How to Download by Purchasing:
- Visit the artist’s page or website linked in the SoundCloud description.
- Pay for the track or album as instructed.
- Once purchased, you’ll typically be provided with a download link or option to store the music files.
Why This Is a Good Option: Purchasing music directly from an artist helps support them financially, ensuring they can continue creating the music you love.
6. Legal Concerns and Copyright Compliance
It’s important to understand that downloading music from SoundCloud without permission or using third-party tools that violate SoundCloud’s terms of service can lead to legal consequences. Always avoid downloading music using unauthorized third-party sites that promise free downloads without the artist’s permission. These downloads are often illegal and can potentially harm the artist’s rights and earnings.
Final Thoughts
While SoundCloud does not allow downloading all of its content for offline use, there are legal and ethical ways to access and download tracks. Whether you’re using SoundCloud’s own features, subscribing to SoundCloud Go+, or exploring Creative Commons music, make sure you’re respecting copyright laws and supporting the artists who create the music you love. Always ensure that your method of downloading aligns with the rights granted by the artist, and you’ll enjoy your SoundCloud experience guilt-free!
