ISRC (International Standard Recording Code)
A unique 12-character code that identifies individual sound recordings.
Definition
The International Standard Recording Code (ISRC) is a unique, permanent identifier assigned to individual audio and video recordings. Think of it as a digital fingerprint for recorded content—each specific recording receives its own ISRC that stays with it throughout its commercial life, enabling accurate tracking, reporting, and royalty distribution across the global music industry.
An ISRC consists of 12 alphanumeric characters structured in four parts: country code (2 characters identifying the country where the registrant is based), registrant code (3 characters identifying the organization assigning the code), year of reference (2 digits indicating when the ISRC was assigned), and designation code (5 digits uniquely identifying the recording within that year).
The ISRC is embedded in digital audio files and remains with the recording regardless of format changes, re-releases, or distribution channels. When a song plays on streaming platforms, radio, or other monitored channels, the ISRC enables systems to identify exactly which recording played—distinguishing between different versions, remasters, live recordings, and covers of the same song.
Registration happens through designated national ISRC agencies or directly through authorized registrants. Record labels, distributors, and some independent artists can obtain registrant codes to assign ISRCs to their recordings. Each unique recording—including different versions, remixes, and masters—requires its own ISRC.
Why It Matters
In a music industry processing billions of streams, downloads, and broadcasts, accurate identification of recordings is essential for proper royalty payments. ISRCs enable automated systems to track exactly which recording was played and route payments to the correct rights holders. Without ISRCs, the complexity of determining which version of a song played and who should receive payment would be overwhelming.
Digital distribution platforms require ISRCs for all releases. Streaming services, download stores, and digital radio all use ISRCs to manage their catalogs and report usage data. Artists and labels who release music without proper ISRCs may find their content rejected by platforms or their royalties misattributed.
ISRCs also enable accurate charting, playlist tracking, and analytics. When industry organizations compile charts or when artists track their streaming performance, ISRCs ensure the data accurately reflects plays of their specific recordings rather than being confused with other versions.
For independent artists managing their own releases, understanding ISRCs is essential for professional distribution. Obtaining and correctly applying ISRCs ensures releases are properly tracked and payments flow correctly.
Examples in Practice
An artist releases an album containing ten original recordings, each assigned a unique ISRC through their distributor. When the album is later remastered and re-released, the remastered versions receive new ISRCs because they're technically different recordings, while the original versions retain their original codes.
A recording appears simultaneously on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and dozens of other platforms worldwide. Despite the global distribution, the single ISRC identifies the recording across all platforms, enabling consolidated reporting and accurate royalty calculation.
A PRO monitors radio broadcasts using audio fingerprinting tied to ISRC databases. When a song plays, the system identifies the ISRC and logs the play for royalty calculation—accurately distinguishing between the original recording and a live version with a different ISRC.
A cover artist records their own version of a popular song. Even though the underlying composition is the same, their recording receives a unique ISRC because it's a distinct sound recording separate from the original artist's version.