Why Licences Exist
When you buy a beat, you’re not buying the full copyright. You’re buying permission to use the instrumental under certain conditions.
A licence answers two questions:
1. What limits the song can hit? (streams, videos, radio performances, etc.) 2. What files do you get? (MP3, WAV, stems)
Different licences exist so you can choose only the level of rights you actually need. You can always upgrade later if your song starts taking off.
Quick Overview of Licence Types
MP3 Licence (Entry-Level)
This is a budget-friendly licence for new artists. It's perfect of you're releasing demos or your very single.
Best for:
- quick drops
- building your initial fanbase
- small projects
WAV Licence (Standard)
A solid choice for artists who want high-quality audio and a professional release.
Best for:
- Spotify/Apple releases
- music videos
- artists that are building momentum
Trackout Licence (Stems Included)
A more advanced licence that gives you the individual audio tracks (“stems”) for full control in mixing.
Best for:
- professional mixes
- cleaner vocals
- more dynamic arrangements
- collaborating with engineers or studios
If you want your song to sound polished and radio-ready, trackouts will give your engineer the flexibility to shape the beat around you.
Unlimited Licence (No Limits)
The licence for artists expecting traction. No stream limits, no video limits, no restrictions.
Best for:
- singles you’re confident in
- TikTok/YouTube virality
- bigger releases
- long-term monetization
- growing fanbases
Exclusive Licence (Full Ownership Rights)
Only one artist can buy this licence ever. After purchase, the beat is removed from the marketplace.
Best for:
- albums
- major releases
- label submissions
- competitive commercial singles
- artists who want the beat to be theirs
How to Choose Based on Your Situation
If you’re just testing ideas
Pick: MP3 Licence
You’re experimenting. You want feedback. You don’t need high-quality files yet.
If you’re dropping a real single
Pick: WAV Licence
You get clean audio, better mixes, and a professional result.
If you want a professional mix or studio session
Pick: Trackout Licence
Stems give your engineer control over:
- volume
- EQ
- effects
- arrangement
Your vocals will sit way better in the mix.
If you’re serious about pushing the song
Pick: Unlimited Licence
When you expect streams, shares, virality, or long-term monetization — go unlimited. It removes caps before they can slow you down.
If this track defines you
Pick: Exclusive Licence
When you know this song is the one, exclusives protect your brand and guarantee the beat is yours alone.
When Should You Upgrade?
Upgrading is normal. Artists upgrade for three common reasons:
1. A song performs better than expected 2. They need higher-quality files (WAV or stems) 3. They want to remove usage limits
If your track gains traction, upgrade early. You keep your momentum clean and legally protected.
Final Word
Picking the right licence is about clarity.
- Start small if you’re experimenting
- Choose WAV if you’re releasing seriously
- Roll with a Trackout licence for professional mixing
- Go Unlimited if you expect momentum
- Choose Exclusive when exclusivity matters
Your licence simply matches how big your release is.