Common questions about IRSC Codes. What they are and how to obtain them.
What Is An ISRC Code?
An ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a permanent, globally recognised identifier for an individual sound recording, governed by the IFPI under ISO standard 3901. It's essentially a digital fingerprint for your track which will be its digital identifier for life.
The key thing to understand: an ISRC identifies a recording, not a song. So the original, the remix, a remaster, and a cover version each need their own separate ISRC. It's also different from a UPC (the barcode identifying a whole release, like a single or album) and an ISWC (which identifies the underlying composition).
The code is 12 alphanumeric characters, typically shown as Country Code-Registrant Code-Year-Serial Number (e.g. GB-ABC-24-00001).
Once assigned, it stays with that recording forever.
Are ISRC codes needed for submitting a release on Traxsource?
Yes, ISRC codes are mandatory for all Traxsource release submissions. You won't be able to progress beyond the 'Track Information' page (shown below) of your submission till this information is added to all tracks.
Why Do I Need An ISRC Code?
An IRSC Codes are critical in order to make sure you are getting paid properly. Every time your track is bought, streamed, played on radio, or used in a sync, the ISRC connects that play back to you. Without it, royalties go unclaimed. Collection societies use ISRCs to route royalties correctly, including internationally.
How Are ISRCs Created?
Typically, an ISRC is made of four parts: a Country Code (where the registrant is based), a Registrant Code (identifying the rights owner, constant across all your recordings), a Year of Reference (when the code was assigned), and a 5-digit Serial Number (unique to each track, never repeated within the same year).
The golden rule:
1. Same recording (track & mix version), same ISRC;
2. New recording (track & mix version), new ISRC.
3. NEVER use the same ISRC number on ANYTHING but the recording its assigned to. (PERIOD!)
You need a fresh ISRC code any time the audio changes (i.e. a remix, a remaster, an edit).
You don't need a new one if the identical audio simply appears on another release or compilation.
How And Where Do I Get ISRCs Codes?
Three routes:
-
Through your distributor (easiest, free). Some generate ISRCs automatically when you upload. This works fine for most artists. One warning: This is often a problem when switching as ISRCs often are held and reused by some distributors, and if you switch distributors you may have problems. Try to make sure you carry your existing ISRCs with you so you dont lose income.
-
Through your national agency. Register with your country's ISRC agency (PPL in the UK, RIAA in the US) for your own registrant code so you can create and manage your own ISRCs. Best for labels or larger catalogues.
-
Official Country ISRC Agencies that issue these codes can be found HERE
UK & US ISRC providers
UK --> PPLUK
US --> RIAA
US --> USISRC
ISRC.com
0 Comments