Buying a beat from a producer in person — or through WhatsApp or DMs — is still a common hustle in South Africa. But if you’re serious about your music career, you need to buy your beats the right way.
No more “send me the beat bro” or “how much for exclusive?” with no paper trail.
This guide breaks down how to professionally and safely purchase a beat manually, and what paperwork you absolutely need — even when working with a friend.
🤝 Step 1: Agree on the Type of License
Before sending any money, ask the producer:
Is this a lease or an exclusive?
Here’s what you need to know:
| License Type | Description | Typical Use |
| MP3/WAV Lease | Non-exclusive — other artists can use it | Mixtapes, YouTube, demos |
| Trackout Lease | Includes stems, higher flexibility | Commercial releases, performances |
| Exclusive | Sold once — full usage rights | Albums, videos, sync deals |
🎯 Ask how many people already leased it if you’re not buying it exclusively.
💸 Step 2: Confirm the Payment Method & Receipt
Even if you’re paying in person or via EFT, always request:
- A proof of payment (screenshot or receipt)
- Confirmation of the beat title and license type you’re getting
Avoid sketchy payment methods or airtime transfers unless you’re dealing with a trusted person.
📝 Step 3: Get a Beat License Agreement
Even if the purchase happens over WhatsApp, you need a Beat License PDF that clearly says:
- Your name and the producer’s
- The license type and date
- Usage rights (commercial, performance, radio, etc.)
👇 We’ll be sharing free editable beat license templates soon:
🔗 [Download Beat License Templates – Coming Soon]
📑 Step 4: If It’s a Royalty-Based Agreement, Still Do the Paperwork
If you and the producer agree on a 50/50 split instead of upfront payment, that’s great — but you still need:
- A split sheet signed by both parties
- Clear terms on ownership, publishing percentages, and what happens if the song makes money
✅ No paperwork = No protection. Friend or not, protect your business.
📤 Step 5: Get the Beat Files the Right Way
Request the beat file in high quality:
- WAV or 320kbps MP3
- Trackouts if it’s a premium license or exclusive
- A proper file name like “YourName_BeatName_Lease.wav”
Avoid using beats that are tagged or downloaded without agreement — it might get taken down later.
🧠 Step 6: Keep Records
Save everything:
- PDF license
- Payment receipt
- Chat or email where terms were agreed
- Split sheet (if you’re doing royalty sharing)
This helps you if your song blows up and money starts moving — or if there’s ever a legal issue.
🚫 Avoid These Common Mistakes
- ❌ Releasing a song without a license
- ❌ Paying and not getting stems
- ❌ Not agreeing on royalties in writing
- ❌ Assuming you own the beat just because you paid something
- ❌ Skipping split sheets and later arguing over publishing
