Licensing is an aspect of beat selling that determines how artists, labels, and creatives can use the beats. When it comes to licensing, there are two main types: non-exclusive licenses and exclusive licenses. I’ll also talk about the differences between these licenses and shed light on the other options available within the non-exclusive licensing model.
Non-Exclusive Licenses: Versatility and Flexibility
Non-exclusive licenses provide artists with a flexible and cost-effective way to access beats. With a non-exclusive license, producers retain the right to sell the same beat to multiple artists simultaneously. This means that several artists can utilize the same beat for their projects.
What sets non-exclusive licenses apart is the variety of options they offer. Producers often provide different versions of non-exclusives that come with different file types and streaming limits. These versions allow artists to choose the option that best aligns with their creative vision. Some may just only need the mp3 or wav version of the beat. Some artists like having their songs mixed by engineers and being present in the room.
Unlimited Licenses (Unlimited Streaming):
Over the past years producers have begun to adopt a new pricing model that revolutionizes the non-exclusive licensing landscape. Unlimited streaming for non-exclusives has opened up exciting opportunities for artists and creators. This means that once an artist purchases a beat with an unlimited streaming option, they can stream their song on various platforms without any limitations.
The concept of unlimited streaming is appealing to artists who are more serious and plan to really make money from their music. The absence of streaming restrictions empowers artists to unleash their creativity and experiment with different marketing strategies without worrying about additional costs or limitations.
However, it’s important to note that not every producer has embraced the unlimited streaming option for their non-exclusive licenses. Some producers might still choose to offer non-exclusives with predefined streaming limits or even opt out of unlimited streaming altogether. This gives producers the freedom to tailor their offerings to their specific business models and artistic preferences.
Different Pricing Models: Customizing the Deal
One popular approach i’ve seen that’s kinda dope is to sell beats at a lower price while also negotiating a percentage of the revenue generated from the songs created using your beats. This model allows producers to establish partnerships with artists, sharing in the success of the songs and fostering a collaborative spirit instead of just selling beats.
This alternative pricing model benefits both artists and producers. Artists can access high-quality beats at a more affordable price, enabling them to invest more in their overall music production process. Producers, on the other hand, have the opportunity to build long-term relationships with artists, opening doors for future collaborations and potential growth in their careers. A producer can simply lease beats for $50 including the trackout files, and also do a 50/50 royalties and publishing rights split with artists. You can make your agreements any way you want to, it’s your business.
By comprehending these licensing options and pricing models, you can help artists can make informed decisions, aligning their creative vision with the available offerings and the licenses that best suit their needs.
