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What is a master recording (and who owns it)?

Your master is your specific recorded version of a song — and it's the asset that earns streaming royalties. Who owns the master owns the income. Here's what it means, and how to make sure that's you.

The basics

Master vs composition

Every song has two sides: the composition (the written song — melody and lyrics) and the master (the actual recording, tied to its ISRC). The master is what plays on Spotify, so it earns the recording royalties. Historically, labels owned artists' masters. Today, as an independent artist, you can keep yours.

Own your master

Keep 100% with a distributor

Because a distributor doesn't take ownership — unlike many label deals — releasing through Mazufa means you keep your master and 100% of the royalties it earns, at 0% commission. Owning your master keeps every future option open: sync, licensing, or a deal on your terms.

Questions

Frequently asked

What is a master recording?

A master is your specific recorded version of a song — the actual audio that streams on platforms. It's tied to an ISRC and earns the recording royalties.

What's the difference between a master and the composition?

The composition is the underlying song (melody and lyrics); the master is the particular recording of it. They can be owned separately and earn different royalties.

Who owns the master recording?

Whoever paid for and controls the recording — historically labels, but independent artists keep their own masters. With Mazufa you retain 100% ownership.

Why is owning your master important?

The master earns the streaming royalties and unlocks sync and licensing deals. Owning it means that income and control stay with you.

Does distributing give away my master?

No. A distributor only delivers your music. With Mazufa you keep 100% ownership of your master and your royalties.

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Own your master — keep 100%.

Distribute to 150+ stores with Mazufa and keep full ownership. Free, 0% commission.