Beat License Agreement Template (Lease & Exclusive)
Beats change hands every day on a handshake — and that is exactly how splits and ownership get disputed later. This agreement sets the terms straight, whether you are leasing or selling exclusive rights.
Get the Beat License template — $10
Lease and exclusive terms in one file — fillable PDF + editable Word.
What is a producer / beat license agreement?
A beat license agreement defines how an artist may use a producer’s instrumental: lease or exclusive, the fee, distribution and usage limits, publishing and royalty splits, and required producer credit. It is the professional standard that separates a real beat business from a comment-section deal.
When you need it
- Selling or leasing beats online or in person
- Before an artist releases a song built on your instrumental
- Granting exclusive rights and retiring a beat from your store
What’s included in the template
- Lease vs exclusive terms in one document
- Usage, streaming, and distribution limits
- Publishing and royalty split fields
- Producer credit and tag requirements
- Fillable PDF plus an editable Word file you can reuse for every placement
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a lease and an exclusive license?
A lease grants limited, non-exclusive use (often capped by streams or units) while you keep selling the beat. An exclusive license transfers broader rights to one artist and usually retires the beat from your catalog.
Should I still use a contract for a free beat?
Yes. Even free or promotional beats should specify credit, usage, and whether any future royalties apply, so expectations are clear if the song takes off.
Does this cover the songwriting split?
It addresses producer royalty and publishing splits at a high level. For detailed songwriting ownership, pair it with a split sheet.
Related templates
- Songwriter Split Sheet Template
- Work-for-Hire Agreement Template
- Sample Clearance Agreement Template
- Music Publishing Power Pack — all 10 contracts for $50
These are professionally drafted templates, not legal advice. Have a qualified attorney review any agreement before you sign.