What are the best free and legal music download sites?

Here are some of the best free and legal music download sites:

Top Free Music Download Sites

1. Free Music Archive (FMA)

   • Offers over 100,000 tracks from various genres.
   • Features advanced search options and curated music collections.
   • Users can stream before downloading.
   • No account required for downloads13.

2. SoundCloud

   • A vast platform with thousands of tracks available for free download.
   • Artists often offer free music under Creative Commons licenses.
   • Users can stream music before downloading13.

3. Jamendo Music

   • Provides a large collection of royalty-free music under Creative Commons licenses.
   • Ideal for discovering independent artists and supporting them.
   • Offers streaming and radio features13.

4. YouTube Audio Library

   • Offers royalty-free music and sound effects for video projects.
   • Music can be used in any content, provided terms are followed.
   • Requires a YouTube account for access1.

5. Internet Archive

   • Hosts a vast collection of live concerts and historical recordings.
   • Users can download music without cost, but licenses vary2.

6. Bandcamp

   • Offers a "name your price" model, allowing users to download music for free or pay what they wish.
   • Popular among independent musicians3.

7. Musopen

   • Specializes in public domain classical music.
   • Offers sheet music and internet radio options.
   • Free account allows up to five downloads per day12.

8. Audiomack

   • Known for hip-hop and urban music.
   • Many tracks are available for free download, depending on artist settings1.

9. Last.fm

   • Provides a modest selection of free music for download.
   • Tracks user listening habits to suggest new music12.

10. BeatStars

    • Offers free beats and music downloads, particularly useful for producers.
    • Users can filter by genre and mood1.

These sites provide a mix of independent, public domain, and royalty-free music, ensuring that users can legally download music for personal or commercial use, depending on the specific licenses involved.