Understanding ISRCs

An ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a unique identifier assigned to a specific sound recording. Think of it as a fingerprint for your track. It identifies the recording throughout its lifetime, regardless of who owns it or where it's distributed.

For example, if you release a song as a single and later include the same recording on an album, both versions should use the same ISRC.

When should I reuse an existing ISRC?

An ISRC stays with a recording throughout its lifetime. You should reuse the same ISRC when:

• Including an unchanged recording on a single, album, or compilation.
• Re-releasing a recording without changing the audio.
• Distributing the same recording through a different distributor.

An ISRC identifies the sound recording itself, not the song's composition or the album it appears on.

When do I need a new ISRC?

A new ISRC is generally required when you create a new or materially different version of a recording. Examples include:

• New recordings: A new performance or recording of an existing song.
• Remixes or edits: A remix or edit that creates a different version of the original recording.
• Changes in duration: Edits that change the recording's length by more than 10 seconds.
• New recordings using existing audio: Recordings created by combining portions of other recordings.
• Significant audio processing: Restoration, remastering, or other processing that results in a materially different recording.

Changing an artist name, track title, or other metadata does not automatically create a new recording. However, these changes can affect how streaming platforms identify and match your music, so you should follow the applicable release requirements before reusing an ISRC.

For more information about when a new ISRC is required, refer to the official ISRC handbook.

What's the difference between an ISRC and an ISWC?

An ISRC identifies a specific sound recording, while an ISWC (International Standard Musical Work Code) identifies the underlying musical composition.

For example, two artists recording the same song would each have a different ISRC for their recordings, but both recordings could be associated with the same ISWC.

ISWCs are assigned through performing rights organizations (PROs), such as ASCAP or BMI. CD Baby does not assign ISWCs. You can search your PRO's repertoire database to find an existing ISWC.