ISRC (International Standard Recording Code)

Category: Music Marketing

What is ISRC (International Standard Recording Code)?

An ISRC is a unique 12-character code assigned to each recorded track, enabling tracking of plays and royalty payments globally.

ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) explained

ISRC codes are the global standard for identifying sound recordings. Each recording (not song, but specific recording) gets a unique ISRC that stays with it forever—across platforms, distributors, and territories. ISRCs enable: accurate royalty tracking and payment, chart eligibility, radio airplay tracking, and Content ID registration. Most distributors assign ISRCs automatically when you upload, but you can also get them directly from your national ISRC agency. Never reuse an ISRC—if you create a new master recording (remaster, remix), it needs a new ISRC. Keep records of your ISRCs for royalty disputes or distributor transitions.

Why ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) matters for independent artists

Understanding ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) helps you make better promotion decisions on SoundCloud and other streaming platforms. On Reposter Network, artists apply concepts like this every day when they trade real plays, likes and reposts with other musicians instead of buying fake engagement.

Related terms

• UPC (Universal Product Code): A UPC is a barcode identifying a complete release (album, EP, single) used for retail tracking and chart reporting.
• Metadata: Metadata is embedded information about a music file including title, artist, genre, BPM, and credits that helps with organization and discovery.
• Music Distribution: Music distribution delivers your music to streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud, making it available worldwide.

Browse the full music marketing glossary or read the guide on SoundCloud repost networks.