In the world of music production and distribution, the ISRC code plays a crucial role. This unique identifier helps to track and monitor the usage and distribution of individual sound recordings, making it an essential tool for any artist, label or distributor. In this article, we will delve into what the ISRC code is, how it works and why you need one.
What is an ISRC Code? #
ISRC stands for International Standard Recording Code, which is a unique identifier assigned to individual sound recordings. This code was created by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) in 1986 to provide a global standard for identifying and tracking music recordings. The ISRC code is made up of 12 alphanumeric characters and consists of four parts:
- Country code
- Registrant code
- Year of reference
- Designation code
The country code is a two-letter code assigned to each country, such as the United States (US) or United Kingdom (UK). The registrant code is a three-character code assigned by the national ISRC agency to the registrant (the person or company that owns the recording). The year of reference is the year the recording was first made available to the public, and the designation code is a unique four-digit code assigned to the recording.
How Does the ISRC Code Work? #
When a sound recording is assigned an ISRC code, it is embedded in the metadata of the audio file. This means that the code can be read and identified by any device that reads the file, including media players, streaming services and databases. The ISRC code acts as a digital fingerprint for the recording, making it possible to track its usage and distribution across various platforms.
Why Do You Need an ISRC Code? #
If you are an artist or label, having an ISRC code for your sound recordings is essential. Here are some reasons why:
1. Royalty Collection #
The ISRC code is used to track and monitor the usage of sound recordings for royalty collection purposes. This means that when your music is played on the radio, streamed online or used in a TV show, the ISRC code ensures that you receive the appropriate royalties for its usage.
2. Music Distribution #
The ISRC code is also used by music distributors to track the distribution of sound recordings across various platforms, including streaming services, radio stations and physical media. This helps to ensure that your music is being distributed effectively and that you are receiving accurate reports on its usage.
3. Copyright Protection #
The ISRC code is a valuable tool for copyright protection. It helps to identify and track instances of copyright infringement, making it easier to take legal action against those who use your music without permission.
4. Professionalism #
Having an ISRC code for your sound recordings adds a level of professionalism to your music. It shows that you are serious about your career and that you are taking the necessary steps to ensure that your music is being properly tracked and monitored.
Conclusion #
In conclusion, the ISRC code is an essential tool for any artist, label or distributor in the music industry. It provides a global standard for identifying and tracking sound recordings, making it easier to collect royalties, distribute music, protect copyright and showcase professionalism. If you are involved in the music industry, be sure to get an ISRC code for your sound recordings.
