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ISRC

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How to Get ISRC Codes

ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a unique identifier assigned to each individual sound recording. It's essential for tracking and managing music royalties.  

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Here are the primary methods to obtain ISRC codes:

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1. Through Your Digital Distributor

  • Direct Assignment: Many digital distribution platforms (like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music) offer ISRC code assignment as part of their services. Simply upload your music and they'll generate the codes for you.

  • Bulk Assignment: If you have a large number of tracks, some distributors allow you to upload a CSV file with track information, and they'll generate ISRC codes in bulk.

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2. National ISRC Agencies

  • Direct Registration: Contact your country's national ISRC agency to register as a rights holder. They'll provide you with a Registrant Code, which you can use to generate ISRC codes for your recordings. 

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3. Professional Music Services

  • ISRC Managers: Some music services act as ISRC managers. They can help you obtain ISRC codes, especially if you have a large number of recordings or if you need assistance with the registration process.  

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Important Considerations:

  • Ownership: You must be the owner or rights holder of the recording to assign an ISRC code.

  • Uniqueness: Each ISRC code is unique and permanently assigned to a specific recording.  

  • Cost: While some platforms offer ISRC codes as part of their services, others may charge a fee for registration or code generation.

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By obtaining ISRC codes for your music, you're ensuring that your recordings can be accurately identified and tracked, which is crucial for receiving royalties and protecting your intellectual property.

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To get ISRC codes in the UK, you can follow these steps:

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  • Contact the UK ISRC Agency: The UK's ISRC Agency is the British Phonographic Industry (BPI). You can contact them directly to request ISRC codes.

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  • Use a Digital Distribution Service: Many digital music distribution services, such as TuneCore, DistroKid, and CD Baby, offer ISRC code assignment as part of their services. When you upload your music for distribution, they will typically assign unique ISRC codes to each track.

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  • Work with a Music Rights Management Organization (MRMO): MRMOs like PRS for Music in the UK can also provide ISRC code assignment services. They often offer a range of services related to music rights management, such as royalty collection and copyright protection.

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To get ISRC codes in the USA, you can follow these steps:

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  1. Contact the United States Copyright Office:

    • They are the official agency responsible for assigning ISRC codes within the United States.

    • Visit their website or contact them directly for more information and to obtain the necessary forms.

  2. Complete the Required Forms:

    • You will need to provide information about your recordings, such as the artist's name, album title, and track titles.

  3. Submit the Forms and Payment:

    • There may be a fee associated with obtaining ISRC codes. Submit your completed forms along with the required payment.

  4. Receive Your ISRC Codes:

    • Once your application is processed, you will receive the ISRC codes for your recordings.

Alternatively, you may be able to obtain ISRC codes through:

  • A digital music distributor: Many distributors offer ISRC code assignment as part of their services.

  • A music rights management organization (MRMO): MRMOs can also assist with obtaining ISRC codes and managing music rights.

Note: The specific process and fees may vary, so it's recommended to check the United States Copyright Office's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

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