What is ISRC?
Also called: International Standard Recording Code
An ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a unique 12 character code that identifies a specific sound recording. Streaming services and collecting societies use it to track plays and pay royalties.
The code is made of a country code, a registrant code, a two digit year and a five digit designation number. Each recording gets its own ISRC, so a remix, radio edit, live version or remaster needs a new one, while the same recording released on a single and an album keeps the same code.
Most distributors assign ISRCs for free when you upload, or you can register as an ISRC registrant through your national agency and assign your own.
An ISRC identifies the recording; the underlying composition has a separate identifier, the ISWC.
Put it to work
Run a pre-release check on your track before you send it to your distributor.
Release Ready Check