Why You Should Stop Sampling Other People’s Music and Start Creating Your Own
Sampling has shaped modern music, but many new musicians feel trapped, thinking they have to use existing samples to sound professional. The truth? You don’t. Creating your own samples gives you complete artistic freedom and eliminates the legal hassles that come with using someone else’s work. Whether you have a grand piano, a budget synth, or just a free DAW, you can start making original sounds today.
Why Sampling Can Be a Legal Headache If you sample another artist’s music without permission, you risk:
Copyright infringement claims
Your song being removed from Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Music
Paying licensing fees or losing royalties
Lawsuits that can cost thousands of dollars
In Canada, just like in the US and EU, you need permission from both the recording owner (label or artist) and the composition owner (songwriter or publisher) to legally use a sample. Even a tiny, altered snippet can lead to legal trouble (Pelham GmbH v. Hütter, EU ruling, 2019).
Make Your Own Sounds Instead of paying for sample clearance, why not create something original? You don’t need an expensive studio—just creativity and experimentation. Here’s how:
Start with a Virtual Instrument – Many free and paid DAWs come with built-in synthesizers and pianos that let you craft your own sounds.
Use a MIDI Controller – Even a simple MIDI keyboard lets you play and record original melodies. Before I played piano, I used Soundfonts and MIDI to create my own compositions, which gave me complete control.
Experiment with Hardware Synths – Mini synthesizers like the Korg Volca or Arturia MicroFreak give you infinite possibilities for unique textures.
Record Everyday Sounds – Your voice, a spoon tapping on a table, the hum of an air conditioner—these sounds can be transformed into incredible beats and textures with some effects.
Layer and Resample Your Own Playing – Play a simple chord progression on an old keyboard, sample it, and process it with filters, delays, or reverb. Suddenly, you have something unique.
You Don’t Need Fancy Gear to Be Original Too many musicians hold themselves back, thinking they need expensive equipment. But music history is full of examples of artists who used whatever they had to create groundbreaking sounds. Don’t let a lack of gear stop you from experimenting.
The Legal Benefits of Originality
No Copyright Issues – If you make the sounds yourself, no one can claim ownership.
100% Royalties Stay with You – You don’t have to split earnings with rights holders.
More Creative Freedom – You’re not stuck working around pre-made loops or samples.
Final Thoughts:
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment Music isn’t about copying—it’s about creating. You don’t need pre-made samples to make something special. By exploring your own sound, you’ll develop a unique musical identity, free from legal troubles and limitations.
Whether you’re tapping out beats on your desk or experimenting with a mini synth, your creativity is what will make your music stand out. So go for it—try something new, take risks, and make music that is truly yours.
