Sampling, i.e. the use of individual sequences from existing pieces of music as part of a new work, is widespread. It is an essential element in hip hop and electronic music. In practice, however, very few producers seek a licence from the author or right holder of the original recording. Sampling is seen by many as its own culture, where creativity lies in the creation of new musical work consisting of a number of short, partly changed or alienated elements, so that obtaining all rights for each individual sample is often out of the question for financial or practical reasons.

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