Interpolation vs Sampling
An interpolation is when you re-record or re-play a recognisable part of an existing song, such as a melody or lyric, using your own musicians or production, instead of using the original master recording.
The key difference from a sample:
- A sample uses the actual original recording, so you must clear both the master (recording) and the publishing (composition).
- An interpolation re-records the part, so there is no master to clear, but you still must clear the publishing, because you are using someone else's composition.
Why You Still Need Permission
Even though you played the part yourself, the melody or lyrics still belong to the original songwriter and publisher. Using them without a licence is copyright infringement of the composition.
How to Clear an Interpolation
- Identify the songwriters and publisher of the original composition.
- Contact the publisher to request permission to interpolate.
- Agree on a publishing split or licence fee. Interpolations often result in the original writers receiving a share of your song's publishing.
- Update your metadata so the original writers are credited as contributors.
Releasing With InterSpace
Make sure any interpolation is cleared before you submit your release. Uncleared interpolations can trigger content matches, rejection during Quality Control, or a takedown later.