Where do you get royalty-free music that doesn't sound like elevator garbage?

I feel you, the YouTube Audio Library is a hit or miss. I've been using Artlist for about two years now, and it's been solid. Their licensing is simple: one subscription covers you for all platforms, including podcasts, and you don't have to worry about copyright claims as long as you're not redistributing the track itself. The music is more curated and indie, which fits the lo-fi/electronic vibe you're looking for. They also have a great search feature where you can filter by mood, genre, and even BPM. One thing to note: you have to download the track before your subscription ends, or you lose access to it. But if you're an active creator, that's not a big deal.

If you're open to alternatives, check out Musicbed (more cinematic, but pricier) or Soundstripe (they have a lot of electronic/lo-fi). But for your needs, I'd say Artlist is your best bet. Try their free trial and see if the catalog speaks to you.

Thanks for the detailed breakdown! That's exactly what I needed. I just signed up for the Artlist free trial, and I'm already finding some great tracks. The licensing clarity is a huge relief. I'll definitely be upgrading to a full subscription after the trial. Appreciate the help!