Do samples really cost THAT much to clear? i know it depends on the sample and how you flip it, but in general
When you're listening to beats for albums, do you prefer tracks with no sampling because of the costs associated with sample clearances?
I prefer good tracks, period. The game is divided with the whole Sample vs. No sample debacle. With sampling costs eating up album budgets, some artists are gearing more towards sample-free production, which is a key reason why some of the music today sounds so watered down. Sample-free beats are usually one to two notes of a sound mixed with kicks and snares, so to some, the music lacks movement. On the other hand, a good sample free track finds the producer in control of all melody and groove.
I personally feel that samples add feel to tracks, whereas beats with no samples tend to lack a groove (unless your Timberland, Storch or Pharrell). To starting producers, samples serve as good startup kit. It’s almost mandatory for a producer’s first couple of tracks to contain a sample as a reference point. Regardless of which route you take, make sure the track MOVES PEOPLE. Whether it’s nodding your head, shaking ya ass or just leaning to the side on some “I-don’t-move” ****, a good beat should be able to move the listener, period.
What's the deciding factor in a beat with a sample where you decide to clear the sample and use it versus sending the producer back to the studio to remake the track without the sample?
The cost of clearing the sample.
