MUSIC PUBLISHING
GLOSSARY

International Standard Recording Code (ISRC)

A 12-character alphanumeric code used to identify a unique sound recording. One song can have multiple ISRCs if more than one recording of the song has been released - like live, acoustic, or cover versions. Publishers, collection societies, and music services use ISRCs to match specific recordings to the underlying compositions. ISRCs are typically assigned by labels or distributors. An ISRC looks like this: USS1Z9900001. 

Related Terms:

• Copyright
• Music Publishing
• International Standard Work Code (ISWC)
• Copyright Registration

Related Articles:

• Metadata for Songwriters: Everything You Need to Know
• Seven Details Worth Getting Right When Registering Songs
• What's the Difference Between ISRCs and ISWCs?
• Help Center: ISRC

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