Why clearance matters: Sampling without permission can trigger copyright claims, takedowns, or even lawsuits — no matter how short or altered the clip is. Two rights to clear: Every sample may involve ...

In June 2007, Rihanna reached the No. 1 spot on the Hot 100 for what was then only the second time in her career. “Umbrella,” written and produced by The-Dream and Tricky Stewart, was originally meant ...