What is Sample-Safe?
When artists license beats, they need to know if the beat contains samples from other copyrighted works. Uncleared samples can create legal issues for commercial releases. The Sample-Safe status tells potential buyers:- Whether your track is 100% original or uses fully cleared samples
- Or if the track contains uncleared samples that require additional clearance
Sample-Safe Statuses
When uploading a track, you’ll choose one of two statuses:Cleared
100% original or fully clearedSelect this if:
- Your track contains only original sounds you created
- All samples used are royalty-free
- You have written clearance for any samples used
Needs Clearance
Contains uncleared samplesSelect this if:
- Your track uses samples from other songs
- You haven’t obtained clearance for the samples
- The samples are from recognizable copyrighted works
Setting Sample-Safe Status
When you upload a track, the Sample-Safe section appears in the track form:1
Find the Sample-Safe section
Look for the Sample-Safe™ Warranty section in your track form.
2
Select your status
Click either Cleared or Needs Clearance to indicate your track’s sample status.
3
Add notes (if needed)
If you select “Needs Clearance,” you can add optional notes about the samples used.
4
Save your track
Your Sample-Safe status is saved with the track.
What Counts as a Sample?
A sample is any audio taken from another source and used in your production:Common Sample Types
| Type | Examples | Clearance Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Vocal chops from songs | Famous lyrics, vocal hooks | Yes, typically |
| Melody replays from songs | Interpolations of existing melodies | Often yes |
| Royalty-free samples | Sample packs you purchased | Usually no |
| Your own recordings | Original vocals, instruments | No |
| Public domain audio | Classical recordings (verify!) | Depends |
Notes for Uncleared Samples
If you mark a track as “Needs Clearance,” you can add notes to help buyers understand:- What samples are used
- Where they’re from
- Clearance status or progress
- “Contains vocal sample from [Artist Name] - clearance in progress”
- “Uses melody inspired by [Song Name] - may require interpolation license”
How Buyers See Sample Status
When a buyer views your track:Cleared tracks
Cleared tracks
Buyers see that your track is certified sample-safe and ready for commercial use without additional clearance requirements.
Tracks needing clearance
Tracks needing clearance
Buyers are notified that the track contains samples requiring clearance. They can still license the track but understand they may need to clear samples for their release.
Changing Sample-Safe Status
You can update your track’s Sample-Safe status at any time:- Go to your track’s edit page
- Find the Sample-Safe section
- Select the new status
- Save your changes
Producer Responsibility
As a producer, you’re responsible for:- Accurate disclosure — Honestly indicate whether samples are cleared
- Knowing your sources — Understand what audio you’ve used in your productions
- Documentation — Keep records of sample clearances you’ve obtained
BeatPass relies on producer self-certification. Falsely marking a track as “Cleared” when it contains uncleared samples could result in legal issues for you and your buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What about drum sounds and loops from sample packs?
What about drum sounds and loops from sample packs?
Most commercial sample packs come with royalty-free licenses that allow use in productions. These typically don’t require additional clearance and can be marked as “Cleared.”Always check the license terms of your sample packs to be sure.
I replayed a melody myself. Is that cleared?
I replayed a melody myself. Is that cleared?
Replaying a melody (interpolation) from a copyrighted song still requires clearance from the original songwriters. Mark as “Needs Clearance” unless you have written permission.
Can buyers request sample information?
Can buyers request sample information?
Buyers interested in your track may reach out to ask about samples. Be prepared to provide information about what you’ve used.
What if I'm not sure about clearance?
What if I'm not sure about clearance?
When in doubt, mark your track as “Needs Clearance.” It’s better to be cautious than to create legal issues for yourself or your buyers.
Best Practices
Use royalty-free samples
Use royalty-free samples
Building with royalty-free samples ensures your beats are always clear for commercial use.
Document everything
Document everything
Keep receipts and licenses for sample packs you purchase. Know what’s in your productions.
Be transparent
Be transparent
Honest disclosure builds trust with buyers and protects everyone legally.
Create original content
Create original content
The safest approach is creating beats with 100% original sounds — no sample clearance needed!