⚖️Legal & Compliance
Sample Clearance Process
How to clear samples legally and what happens when you don't.
7 minMarch 2026Intermediate
Two Rights to Clear
Every sample requires two separate clearances:
- Master rights — Permission from the copyright holder of the recording (usually the record label)
- Composition rights — Permission from the copyright holder of the underlying song (usually the publisher or songwriter)
Failing to clear either opens you to legal action and takedowns.
Finding Rights Holders
Identifying rights holders can be challenging. Start with:
- Liner notes and credits on the original release
- ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC databases for composition rights
- SoundExchange or directly contacting record labels for master rights
- Professional clearance databases like Harry Fox Agency
Clearance Services
Services like Splice, Tracklib, and Sample Magic offer pre-cleared samples or facilitate clearance. Some charge upfront fees; others take a percentage of future royalties.
Costs and Negotiation
Clearance costs vary wildly—from $500 to thousands per track. Some rights holders don't clear samples at all. Budget realistically and start negotiations early. Having a publishing deal or significant streaming numbers strengthens your negotiating position.