How to Use Free Tagged Beats the Right Way (Without Getting in Legal Trouble)

Free beats are everywhere; YouTube, Instagram, BeatStars and if you’re an upcoming artist, it’s tempting to grab one and start recording. 

While there’s nothing wrong with using free tagged beats to experiment and build your sound, it’s important to understand what you can and can’t do with them.

In this post, I’ll break down how to use tagged beats the right way, avoid legal issues, and know when it’s time to get a proper license.

What Is a Tagged Beat?

A tagged beat is a version of a beat that includes vocal drops or producer tags throughout the track. 

These tags are added to protect the beat from unauthorised use. 

Think of them like a watermark. 

They allow artists to preview the beat, write to it, and see how it fits their style — but they aren’t meant for official releases.

Can You Release a Song with a Tagged Beat?

In short: NO, not without permission or a proper license.

Using a tagged beat for a commercial release (like uploading to Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube with monetisation) without a license can get your song taken down, lead to copyright claims, or even cause legal trouble. 

Producers retain full rights to their beats unless you’ve purchased or leased them under clear terms.

Tagged beats are generally meant for non-commercial use — for writing, rehearsals, or promotional snippets where the producer is clearly credited.

What Can You Do with a Free Tagged Beat?

Here’s how I recommend using tagged beats the right way:

• Record demos or write rough versions of your song

• Post short clips on social media (with proper credit to the producer)

• Share on platforms like SoundCloud or Audiomack as a preview, but not for monetisation

• If offered, download a free tagged mp3 in exchange for your email (I provide this option)

These uses are great for developing your sound, building your audience, and seeing how your vocals fit over a beat — but they’re not a substitute for a license.

Want to Release Your Song? Lease the Beat

If you're ready to release your song officially, you'll need to lease the beat.

Here’s how I offer my licensing:

• Basic License ($20): Includes the mp3 file, limited distribution (e.g., 5,000 streams), no radio or performance rights

• Standard License ($45): Includes mp3 and wav files, higher streaming limits, and performance rights

Each license comes with a written agreement outlining exactly what’s allowed.

That way, you’re protected and I am too.

I also make it simple to get started: just select the license that suits your needs and checkout directly from my beat store.

What to do with a free tagged beat?

Free tagged beats are a great way to get started, test your flow, and build a vibe.

But when it’s time to put your song out into the world, do it the right way.

Respecting licensing terms helps protect you legally, supports producers, and keeps the music community moving forward.

If you're serious about your music, take that next step and lease the beat. It’s affordable, straightforward, and ensures your release is protected and professional.

You can check out my catalog and grab a free tagged beat when you sign up to my mailing list.

CHECK OUT MY BEATS HERE