Master Rights
Ownership stakes in the recording itself.
The "master" is the actual sound recording — the specific recorded performance of a song, as opposed to the underlying composition. Owning master rights means owning a share of that recording and the income it generates whenever it is streamed, sold, or licensed. On IPexchange, artists sell fractional stakes in their masters, so a buyer can own a defined percentage rather than the whole thing.
What you actually own
A master rights stake is an ownership interest in a specific recording. If you buy 10% of a master, you are entitled to 10% of the revenue that recording earns from its exploitation — streaming platforms, downloads, physical sales, and recording-based licenses. The percentage you hold is recorded on the work’s ownership split (its cap table), alongside every other holder.
How the deal works here
The seller lists a work and decides how much of the master to offer and in what increments — for example, up to 50% available in 5% lots. You purchase the stake through IPexchange in a one-time transaction. From that point, your ownership is on record. The recurring royalties themselves are paid out by the platforms and collection bodies that exploit the work — they flow directly to rights holders, not through IPexchange.
What changes for the seller
A seller who sells 20% of their master keeps 80% and continues to control and earn from the majority. They receive the one-time sale proceeds now, in exchange for a share of future recording income. Sellers typically do this to raise capital up front while retaining creative control and the larger share of long-term upside.
What the buyer gets
- A recorded ownership percentage of the master recording
- A proportional share of that recording’s exploitation revenue
- A position on the work’s official ownership split
What the seller gives
- A defined percentage of future recording income
- Nothing of the composition/publishing (that’s separate)
- No loss of creative control over the remaining share
Who it's good for
Artists who own their recordings and want up-front capital; buyers who want exposure to a recording’s streaming and licensing income.
This page explains how these deals generally work on IPexchange and is for information only — it isn't legal or financial advice. The exact rights, obligations, and terms of any deal are defined in its contract. Review each agreement carefully and consult a qualified professional before buying or selling.