Before you release a track that uses a sample, keep a dated file for the sample itself, the licence or permission you got, and the version of your track that used it. A sample usually involves two separate rights, the sound recording and the underlying song, and each may need its own permission. Records don’t replace a licence, but they show what you used, what you asked for and what you were told. Timestamping the bounce, the stems and the clearance emails shows those exact files existed by a certain time. This is general information, not legal advice.
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Why a sample can mean two permissions
The US Copyright Office explains that a sound recording and the music and lyrics in it are distinct works. In Circular 56 it says the copyright in a sound recording “covers the recording itself” and does not cover the music or lyrics, and gives the example of a song and a recording of someone singing it being “two distinct works”. Other countries have their own rules, but the practical point is common: the owner of the recording (often a label) and the owner of the song (often a publisher or writers) can be different people. A clearance process usually asks both. Ask a music lawyer or a clearance service how it applies to your release.
Records to keep for every sample
- The source. Track title, artist, release, and where you found the sample (a record, a sample library, a video). Save a copy of the exact audio you used.
- What you used. The start and end time, whether you pitched, chopped or layered it, and which parts of your track use it.
- Your request. Emails or forms sent to the label, publisher or sample library, with dates.
- The reply and licence. Any signed licence, invoice, royalty-free licence terms or written permission. Save the licence terms as they were on the day you accepted them.
- The version you cleared. A bounce of the track as submitted for clearance, plus the project file and stems.
- Split sheet. If the sample changes who gets paid, record the agreed shares. The free split sheet generator can help.
Where a timestamp helps
If the question later becomes “which version did you clear?” or “what did you ask for, and when?”, a set of loose files with editable dates is easy to doubt. Put the bounce, stems and licence documents in one TimeBind (up to 10 files); how to timestamp a file walks through the steps, and timestamping WAV stems covers the audio side. Your browser makes the fingerprint, the files stay on your device, and the Proof of Time Certificate shows those exact files existed no later than the recorded time. It doesn’t show that a sample was licensed or that the licence covers your use.
Sample libraries and royalty-free loops
Royalty-free doesn’t always mean free of conditions. Some licences restrict use in sound-alike libraries, or require attribution, or don’t cover certain uses. Save the licence terms with the date you downloaded the pack. If a claim is made against a loop you paid for, see copyright claims on loops you paid for.
Before you release
- Finish clearance (or replace the sample) before distribution.
- Export the final master and the stems you will keep. See timestamp EP masters and stems before release.
- Timestamp the master with the clearance records. If you are also sending the track out for feedback, read protect your music before sending first.
- Keep the Proof of Time Certificate with your release folder.
If you pitch the track for film or ads, sync licensing pitch records shows what supervisors often ask about samples.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need to clear a short sample?
There’s no safe length that applies everywhere. The answer depends on the law where you release and on how the sample is used. Get advice from a music lawyer or a clearance service.
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What is the difference between clearing the master and the song?
The master is the recording. The song is the music and lyrics. A sample often contains both, so you may need permission from the recording owner and from the song owner.
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Does a timestamp clear a sample?
No. A timestamp doesn’t give permission. It records that your files existed no later than a certain time.
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What records should I keep if I use a sample library?
The licence terms, your purchase or download receipt with the date, the original sample files, and the project that uses them.
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What does a TimeBind cost?
Your first Pooled TimeBind is free, with no credit card required. After that, Pooled TimeBinds start from US$5, and an ASAP TimeBind is US$15. See plans and pricing
Record the track and the paperwork together
Free to start. The file stays on your device and your browser makes the fingerprint.
More music guides are grouped on the music timestamping hub.
Last fact-checked: 10 November 2026.
Date your session and your clearance records together
Add the project file, the bounce and your licence emails (up to 10 files) to one TimeBind before the track goes out.
Make your first TimeBind free → See plans and pricing
Your first Pooled TimeBind is free, with no credit card required. After that, TimeBinds start from US$5, and an ASAP TimeBind is US$15. Your browser makes the fingerprint and the file stays on your device. A TimeBind shows a file existed no later than the recorded time. It doesn’t show who made it.
Related: Spotify’s AI remix and cover tool: what musicians should keep.
