I Used Samples To Create My Music. What's the Procedure?

Distributing music that includes samples requires careful consideration of licensing and rights. Here’s a simplified overview to help you to proceed effectively 👇

1. Obtain Commercial Use Authorization

Before you distribute any music containing samples, make sure you have a license agreement. This document serves as proof that you can legally use the sampled material in your music, and must be obtained before you submit the release to our team.

2. Things To Check In Your License

• Read Terms and Conditions: Always review carefully the terms of the platform where you obtain your samples to understand your rights and limitations.
• Proof of Purchase vs. License: A proof of purchase is not a contract. Ensure you have the actual license that details your rights for commercial use, including any restrictions.
• Stream and Download Limits: Verify that your license allows for unlimited commercial streams and downloads. For example, if your license states a limit of 5,000 downloads and 100,000 streams, we will not accept it.
• Worldwide Licensing: Make sure that the terms listed in your license are applicable to all countries. 

3. Royalty-Free Samples

A "royalty-free" license means you don’t owe ongoing royalties from the exploitation of your music. However, you typically cannot attribute your name to the original composer unless stated otherwise. Always check the licensing terms on platforms like Splice or Loopmasters for clarity. In this case, we require an authorization for commercial use and your purchase invoice.

4. YouTube Content ID Monetization

Do not activate YouTube Content ID on tracks that contain non-exclusive samples. Doing so goes against YouTube’s eligibility guidelines and can lead to copyright claims from the original creators.

5. Exclusive Beats

Exclusive beats/samples are sold to only one artist or producer exclusively, which means that the seller cannot sell them to anyone else. This grants the buyer full control over how the beat is used, including its distribution and monetization.

Make sure you have the proper authorization, pay attention to the terms associated with any samples or beats you utilize, and always inform us of your use. Please have all the documentation ready in case we need it so we can distribute your music without any potential issues with the platforms and rights holders! 

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