Reuse & Derivatives
Interpolation
An interpolation re-records part of an existing song instead of using the original recording, so you only clear the composition (the publishing), not the master.
Where this sits
Interpolation
- Distribution
- Broadcast
- Publishing
- Performance
An interpolation replays or re-sings a melody, hook, or lyric from another song using your own new recording. Because you never touch the original master, US law (§114(b)) means no master-use license is needed, but you are still reproducing the composition, so you clear it with the publisher.
Good to know
Interpolation: common questions
- Why is an interpolation cheaper to clear than a sample?
- Because you re-record the part yourself, you don't need the original recording owner's permission, only the songwriter and publisher's. That removes the master-use license entirely.
- Do the original writers become co-owners of my song?
- Usually they receive a negotiated share of the new song’s publishing and a co-writer credit. The exact split is agreed with the publisher; there is no statutory rate for an interpolation.