A new version of MobyGratis
Moby offers free music to filmmakers and students through a revamped version of his long-standing nonprofit platform. Designed to remove licensing barriers for creative projects. The platform, which has just undergone a major relaunch. Includes over 150 tracks from the artist’s catalogue and provides free access to music for use in non-commercial films, video projects, and experimental work. It’s a move that highlights Moby’s ongoing commitment to independent creators and his belief in music as a public resource.
The site at the centre of this initiative is MobyGratis. Which first launched in 2007 but has now been rebuilt from the ground up for 2025. The updated platform offers a broader, more accessible selection of music. All personally curated by Moby — with a streamlined interface designed for modern filmmakers and digital storytellers. The relaunch aims to make it faster and easier for independent creators to access emotionally resonant, cinematic music without the financial obstacles usually associated with music licensing.
More than 150 tracks are now available to stream directly through the platform, and users can submit a request to license music for free, provided the intended use is non-commercial. These include music from Moby’s most acclaimed albums like Play, 18, Wait for Me, and Hotel. As well as lesser-known ambient works, instrumentals, and previously unreleased material. The service supports student films, nonprofit content, and any project that is not being commercially monetised.
Free music without compromise
What makes Moby’s offer so unique is the quality of the music available. While many royalty-free libraries tend to be packed with generic or AI-generated tracks. MobyGratis provides professionally produced, emotionally rich music with real artistic depth. It’s a rare opportunity to use high-quality compositions from an internationally recognised artist without the usual red tape or cost.
The platform is open to filmmakers, students, content creators, and nonprofit organisations around the world. Once a user applies to use a track — by submitting a brief overview of their project. Most non-commercial requests are approved within 24 hours. If a project eventually becomes commercial, a licensing fee is introduced. But all proceeds are donated in full to The Humane Society, aligning the project with Moby’s longstanding animal rights advocacy.
Who it’s for and how it works
Moby offers free music primarily to support independent filmmakers and students who often can’t afford traditional licensing fees. Projects that are eligible include short films, documentaries, student assignments, art installations, film festival submissions, and nonprofit campaign videos. Even low-budget YouTube creators and experimental video artists can apply, as long as the work isn’t being monetised commercially.
Users begin by browsing the MobyGratis library, where each track can be streamed in full. Once a song is selected, a quick application form is submitted, explaining the purpose of the film or project. If approved, the user receives a high-quality audio file and simple guidelines on how to credit the track in their work. There’s no watermarking, no usage fees for non-commercial use, and no surprise licensing terms buried in small print. For any commercial inquiries, a separate process is in place — again, with all revenue donated, not retained.
A timely offer in a changing industry
The relaunch of MobyGratis comes at a time when content creation has never been more accessible — or more saturated. With short films, video essays, social documentaries, and experimental films flooding platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and film festivals. The need for compelling, rights-cleared music is growing. Unfortunately, most creators in this space still face limited options. Either use bland royalty-free music, or take legal risks by using copyrighted material without permission.
By offering his own music for free, Moby is cutting through those limitations. And because his music has been used in major films, ads, and soundtracks around the world, it brings with it a level of cinematic polish and emotional impact that most indie projects struggle to afford. For filmmakers who want to create something moving and memorable — without the overhead — this is a rare opportunity.
A legacy of support for creators
Moby’s decision to offer free music isn’t a publicity stunt or a side project. It’s part of a long-term philosophy he’s been vocal about for over two decades: that art should be accessible, and that creators should help one another where possible. From donating licensing fees to animal charities, to supporting film students and nonprofit directors, his actions match his message.
This approach also fits within a broader shift in how artists think about their legacy. With the rise of direct distribution and creator-led platforms, legacy musicians like Moby are increasingly exploring ways to support the next generation. In this case, Moby is doing more than making his catalogue available — he’s building infrastructure for other creatives to succeed.
Emotional music with cultural weight
One of the biggest benefits of using Moby’s music in visual work is the emotional weight it carries. Tracks like “Porcelain,” “God Moving Over the Face of the Waters,” and “Everloving” have been used in iconic moments across film and TV, offering depth, nostalgia, and mood that few other artists can match. Many of the songs available on MobyGratis were originally written with cinematic intent, making them ideal for underscoring themes of longing, hope, isolation, or transcendence.
Filmmakers who use MobyGratis don’t just get access to free music — they get access to a sonic language that’s already shaped how audiences feel. That’s an advantage few music libraries can offer, and it’s why this platform stands out in a crowded field.
How to get started
To get started, visit the official MobyGratis website. For more about Moby himself, including his music catalogue and activism, head to his official site at moby.com. There’s also a newly released short film explaining the project and how it works, which can be viewed on here:
Conclusion
As Moby offers free music to the next generation of filmmakers and creatives, he is setting an example for how established artists can meaningfully support independent culture. The 2025 relaunch of MobyGratis is more than a website refresh — it’s a renewed commitment to openness, artistic collaboration, and the belief that powerful music should be available to everyone, not just those with a budget.
For more insights into how social media is transforming music production, check out our article on Social Media and Music Production
