Explore sampling, remixes, interpolations, cover songs, adaptations, translations, and other derivative uses of existing music, including when permission or additional licensing is required.

Outcome. Decide correctly which permissions a derivative use needs, on your music and on other people’s.

A sample takes a portion of an existing recording, so it touches both the recording and the underlying work, and usually needs clearance from both owners. An interpolation re records elements of a composition without using the original audio, so it usually touches only the work.

A cover re records a composition. You can secure a licence from the owner or rely on the statutory mechanical licence, which the owner generally cannot refuse if the requirements are met. A statutory licence lets you arrange the work but not change its basic melody or fundamental character.

A remix alters an existing recording to make a new version. A mashup combines recordings. Both usually implicate the recordings and the works behind them.

Fair use, public domain and universal musical elements are the genuine exceptions, and each is narrower than people assume. A work can be public domain as a composition while a particular recording of it is not. Beat store licences deserve the same scrutiny: read whether the beat itself contains an uncleared sample, and whether the producer retains points.

What you will produce

A clearance decision sheet for every derivative use in your catalog, naming which copyrights are touched and the status of each.