ISWC, ISRC, and UPC: Codes to Know As an Independent Artist or Songwriter
Jul 15
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INTRO
Whether you're releasing your first single or managing an entire catalog, understanding the codes that identify your music is essential to protecting your work and getting paid. From songwriting to distribution, industry-standard identifiers like the ISWC, ISRC, and UPC help track usage, organize metadata, and unlock key revenue streams. In this post, we’ll break down what each code is, who issues them, and how you can secure them as an independent artist or songwriter.
ISWC (International Standard Musical Work Code)
What it is: This is the standardized serial number assigned to a musical work (song composition). This code is used to track wherever a song composition is used. It is a necessary identifier to ensure accurate royalty payments.
Who issues it: The organization CISAC (International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers) is the central administrator for these codes and is responsible for ensuring that each registered musical work is issued a unique, permanent ISWC.
How to get one: An ISWC is assigned when you register a song with your PRO (BMI, ASCAP, etc.). You cannot directly purchase or otherwise obtain this code from CISAC.
Pro tip:
ISWC numbers are considered essential metadata and are public record. You can search for any song's ISWC through CISAC's public portal called ISWC-Network. For U.S. songs, you can also find the ISWC via the PRO's repertory search site (e.g. ASCAP ACE Repertory or SESAC Search Repertory).
ISRC (International Standard Recording Code)
What it is: This is another standardized serial number, this time assigned to identify a sound recording. Just like the ISWC, the ISRC is also critical when it comes to proper identification of a recording and tracking usage and royalties.
Who issues it: Globally, the IFPI Secretariat (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) acts as the central administrator, similar to the way CISAC does for ISWC numbers. The IFPI Secretariat designates National ISRC Agencies to manage ISRC allocation. In the U.S., the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) is responsible for issuing ISRC numbers.
How to get one: U.S. recording owners can obtain an ISRC in one of two ways.
Directly from RIAA. You can apply to become an ISRC Manager, which gives you your own Registrant Code. The Registrant Code is yours for life, and you are able to assign up to 100,000 ISRC numbers each year. This option is more than any independent artist would ever need but offers the most control. At the time of this post, there is a one-time $95 fee when applying to become an ISRC Manager.
Through an approved ISRC Manager. The RIAA provides a list of authorized ISRC Managers, any of whom can assign an ISRC for your recording. Check out the full list of ISRC Managers here. Your cost to obtain an ISRC varies depending on the ISRC Manager you work with.
Your distributor is likely an ISRC Manager and can assign an ISRC when you register your sound recording for release.
CAUTION: There are plenty of companies who offer ISRC services. If they are not listed as an ISRC Manager on the site linked above, they may not be authorized by RIAA for this service. Working with an unauthorized group means you run the risk of being given an invalid code.
Pro tips:
Each ISRC can only represent a single recording, so if you have more than one version of your song, each recording will need its own ISRC.
It is a major convenience when your distributor can assign the ISRC for you, but be mindful - if you ever decide to switch distributors, remember - they own any ISRC codes assigned on your behalf.
When you register a sound recording with your distributor, you are able to enter the corresponding ISWC code. If you are going through your distributor to have your ISRC assigned, it is best practice to register the musical work through a PRO before registering the sound recording with your distributor.
UPC (Universal Product Code)
What it is: These 12-digit barcodes are needed for your products (digital music releases, CDs, vinyl, merch, etc).
Who issues it: UPC codes are issued by GS1, a global organization that creates and manages standard identifications of products and companies.
How to get one: Similar to ISRC numbers, you can obtain a UPC in one of two ways.
Directly from GS1 (US branch). You can purchase a single UPC code, a bundle of codes, or become a GS1 member and obtain your own prefix (similar to becoming an ISRC Manager). Membership is not required to purchase your own codes. At the time of this post, a single UPC code costs a one-time $30 fee. Read more on the GS1 US website.
Through a GS1 member with their own UPC prefix. There are a lot of companies with their own UPC prefix that can assign your product's UPC, like your music distributor. Many distributors automatically assign an ISRC and UPC code when you register a recording, unless you've obtained one or both codes elsewhere. Just like the ISRC code, remember - if you're not purchasing your own code and someone assigns it for you, you do not own that code.
CLOSING
Getting your music properly coded might seem like a technical detail, but it's one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your rights and royalties are protected. Whether you're handling things yourself or working through a distributor, it’s important to make sure you know about these codes, how to obtain, and keep a detailed record of any codes assigned to your music. These codes are more than just numbers—they’re your key to getting credit and getting paid.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. OnSight Collective Music makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy or applicability of the content. Readers should consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to their situation.
