Buying Beats as an Artist: Complete Guide for Rappers and Singers
As an artist you want to focus on what you're good at: writing and performing. But without a good beat you don't have a track. In this guide we explain everything about buying beats. From license versus exclusive to rights, licensing and how to find the perfect instrumental for your sound.
What does 'buying beats' mean?
When you buy a beat, you're actually buying a license to use that beat for your music. The producer remains the creator (and therefore the copyright owner of the composition) in most cases, but you get the right to use the beat for your release.
This works similarly to buying a stock photo: you're not buying ownership, but usage rights. The type of license determines what you can do with the beat. And that brings us to the difference between license and exclusive.
License vs Exclusive: what's the difference?
This is by far the most asked question. Let's explain it simply.
Beat License (non-exclusive) With a license you buy the right to use the beat, but the producer may also sell the same beat to other artists. This is the cheapest option and perfect if you're just starting out or want to release a track without a big budget. Prices usually range from €30 to €100.
Advantages: affordable, quickly available, good for singles and demos. Disadvantages: others can use the same beat, there are limits (e.g. maximum number of streams).
Exclusive Beat With an exclusive you buy the sole right to the beat. After the sale, the producer can no longer sell the beat to others. This is more expensive, but you have the beat all to yourself. Prices usually start around €250 and can go up to €1000+ for established producers.
Advantages: unique, no competitors on the same beat, more rights. Disadvantages: more expensive, not always necessary for beginning artists.
What to look for when buying a beat?
Not every beat is equal, and not every seller is reliable. Watch out for these points:
1. Read the license agreement. Always. Know what you're buying. How many streams are included? Can you use the beat commercially? Do you get stems (separate tracks)?
2. Quality of the mix. A good beat already sounds professional before you put vocals on it. Listen critically to the mix before buying.
3. Originality. Does the beat sound unique or is it a copy of a trending sound? Unique beats help you stand out.
4. Stems available?. For a professional mix you need stems (the separate instrument tracks). Check if these are available with the purchase.
5. Communication with the producer. A good producer thinks along with you, is reachable and delivers quickly. This makes the whole process smoother.
How does it work at Vixere?
At Vixere Nation we produce beats and instrumentals in various genres: trap, hip-hop, drill, electronic, R&B and more. Here's how the process works:
Step 1: Listen to our catalog on the music page or get in touch for a custom production.
Step 2: Choose the license that suits you. License or exclusive.
Step 3: After payment you receive the files (MP3, WAV and optionally stems) plus the license agreement.
Step 4: Make your track, release it and tag us if you want. We love sharing the work of artists who use our beats.
We offer fair pricing: Limited License €50, Unlimited License €100 and Exclusive on request. Browse the full catalog at vixerenation.com/beats. You can check out directly online. Custom productions on request.
Common mistakes when buying beats
We regularly see artists making the same mistakes. Avoid them:
Not buying a license and using the beat anyway. This is simply illegal. The producer can have your track removed from streaming platforms.
Choosing the cheapest option without reading the terms. A €20 license sounds attractive, but if there's a limit of 5,000 streams and your track goes viral, you have a problem.
Not asking for stems. Without stems your mix engineer can't work optimally. Always ask if stems are available.
Not communicating with the producer. The best results come from collaboration. Let the producer know what you're planning, ask for small adjustments if needed.
Conclusion
Buying beats doesn't have to be complicated. Know what you want, read the license, choose quality over quantity and work with a producer you trust. Whether you're a rapper just starting out or an established artist looking for fresh sounds. The right beat is the foundation of every hit.
At Vixere Nation we're ready to help. Check our music page for our catalog or get in touch for a personal conversation.
Looking for the perfect beat?
Check our catalog or get in touch for a custom production.