Sample

Also known as: samplesampling

An excerpt of someone else's recording used in a new recording. It requires consent from both the recording owner and the song's authors.

Even a short excerpt is not automatically “fair use”. The exception is sample libraries whose licence explicitly allows use in distributed music – often with restrictions (for example no Content ID).

Not to be confused with

Cover version – Your own new recording of someone else's song. The original composer and lyricist remain the authors.
Adaptation (derivative work) – A new work created by creatively adapting another – a remix, an arrangement, a translated lyric. It needs the original author's consent.

Related guides

Using other people's music without a licence is theft
A sound recording must not contain other people’s works without a licence

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The glossary explains terms in plain language for musicians; it is not legal or tax advice. Always check the current wording of the laws. Czech laws are linked in Czech.