Understanding Exclusive Licensing
An exclusive license means only one person can own usage rights to a beat. When you purchase a beat exclusively, no one else can license it—it becomes exclusively yours.Think of it like buying a house versus renting an apartment. Non-exclusive is like renting (others can rent too), while exclusive is like buying (you’re the only owner).
What “Exclusive” Actually Means
You Get
- Sole ownership rights — No one else can license this beat
- Full creative control — Use it however you want
- Sync licensing — Use in movies, TV, commercials
- Broadcasting — Radio, TV, unlimited stations
- Content ID — Register for YouTube Content ID
- Stems — Individual instrument tracks for remixing
- Unlimited performances — Any venue size
Track Status Changes
When purchased exclusively:| Before | After |
|---|---|
| Status: Available | Status: SOLD |
| Others can download | Downloads blocked |
| Non-exclusive active | No new licenses |
Ownership vs Usage Rights
Non-Exclusive (Usage Rights)
With a non-exclusive license, you have:- Permission to use the beat
- No ownership of the beat itself
- Shared with other licensees
- Restrictions on certain uses
Exclusive (Ownership Rights)
With an exclusive license, you have:- Full ownership of the beat rights
- The beat is yours alone
- Complete control over usage
- No significant restrictions
Publishing Rights
Exclusive licenses typically include publishing arrangements:| Party | Default Share |
|---|---|
| Producer | 20% |
| Licensee (You) | 80% |
- You collect 80% of publishing royalties
- Producer retains 20% as the original composer
- These percentages may be customized by the producer
Publishing rights affect royalty collection from performance, mechanical, and sync royalties. Register your songs with a PRO (ASCAP, BMI, etc.) to collect.
What Happens to Existing Licenses
If others downloaded the beat with non-exclusive licenses before your purchase:- Their licenses remain valid — They can keep using it
- No new licenses issued — No one new can download
- You still have exclusive going forward — You’re the only one who can license it now
Exclusive-Only Tracks
Some producers list tracks as exclusive-only:- No non-exclusive option available
- Track is marked for exclusive purchase only
- Must purchase exclusive to use
- Often higher-value or premium beats
When to Buy Exclusive
Consider exclusive if:- You want to be the only artist using this beat
- You need sync licensing for film/TV
- You want to register for Content ID
- You plan major commercial releases
- The beat is central to your brand
- You’re still experimenting
- Budget is limited
- You don’t need sync rights
- Sharing with others doesn’t concern you