Exclusive vs Non-Exclusive Vocals (and Why I Started Offering Limited Editions)
If you’ve ever been confused about what the hell “exclusive” and “non-exclusive” actually mean when it comes to vocals - you’re not alone. I get asked this all the time.
And it’s a fair question. Because the difference isn’t just about price. It’s about ownership, uniqueness, and the kind of creative freedom you want.
Let’s break it down.
Non-Exclusive Vocals
These are vocals that can be purchased by multiple producers. You’re not buying the only copy - you’re licensing it for use in your own track, royalty-free. It’s kind of like buying a sample pack from Splice, except mine come with harmonies, doubles, FX stems and extra sauce.
Pros:
Way more affordable
Instant download
Great for finishing a track quickly or testing out ideas
Cons:
Someone else might use the same vocal (though if you flip it creatively, it won’t matter)
Exclusive Vocals
This means the vocal is yours and yours alone. Once you buy it, it’s gone from the site. No one else can legally use it, and the listing is removed.
Pros:
Total peace of mind that no one else will ever release the same vocal
You can treat it like a custom topline without waiting on turnaround
Easier to pitch to labels or submit to promo channels without overlap worries
Cons:
Higher price tag
Still pre-written (not tailored to your specific track)
So Why Did I Start Offering Limited Editions?
Because I felt like producers were stuck choosing between cheap and reused or expensive and exclusive. And most of us don’t want to gamble either way.
Limited Edition Vocals are my middle-ground option:
Only sold to a very limited number of producers (capped at 20)
Still much cheaper than exclusive
Still way more protected than non-exclusive
It’s a hybrid model I don’t see many vocalists doing - but it makes sense to me. You get high-quality, full-stem vocals with way less risk of overlap, and I get to keep the pricing flexible.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re finishing a track fast or just vibing out an idea? Go non-exclusive. If you’re releasing something special and want peace of mind? Go exclusive. If you want a one-of-a-kind vocal without dropping hundreds? Go limited.
No matter which route you take, the most important thing is this:
Make it yours. Flip it, bend it, stretch it, and layer it until it sounds like you.
And if you need help choosing the right vocal, I’m always happy to recommend some based on BPM, vibe, or genre. Just drop me a message. Or have a gander here.
Kate
