Registration is separate from the lease
Can i copyright a song if i lease a beat? Yes, if your song is original, but registration is a separate step with the Copyright Office. The lease is a private agreement, so it does not replace copyright registration or change what the law gives each creator.
The beat may still belong to its owner
A lease gives only the permissions written into it, and only for rights the licensor actually owns. For a closer look at the difference, see beat lease vs exclusive and our beat license checklist.
Someone else's recording
Is it illegal to recreate a beat? The answer can depend on the details, because copyright law gives the owner exclusive rights to reproduce a work and prepare derivative works, subject to statutory limits. A new beat can also raise issues if it copies protected elements from someone else’s sound recording or musical work, and a beat license does not clear a sample. This page does not decide fair use.
What to write in your notes
Keep notes about whether you used a sample and who owns the beat. Good records help you track what you created, what you licensed, and what still needs review. If you need a place to start, check the FAQ.
Not legal advice. Splitline does not grant a license, clear a sample, or pay royalties.