Glossary / Streaming

Industry terms

ISRC

An ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a 12-character code that identifies one specific recording, so its plays and sales can be tracked and paid.

Also called: International Standard Recording Code, ISRC code

By Aulto · Last reviewed

Why does a recording need an ISRC?

Streaming services, stores and collecting societies report usage by ISRC. Without one, a recording can't be tracked properly across services.

Who gives you an ISRC?

Usually your distributor or label assigns it when you upload a release. You can also get your own codes through your country's ISRC agency.

Does a remix or live version get a new ISRC?

Yes. Each distinct recording gets its own code. A re-upload of the exact same recording should keep its original ISRC.

Example

An ISRC looks like IN-A1B-26-00012: country, registrant, year and a number for that recording.

  • UPC

    A UPC is the barcode number that identifies a whole release (a single, EP or album), while each track on it has its own ISRC.

  • DSP

    DSP (digital service provider) is the industry's name for streaming services and digital stores, like Spotify, JioSaavn, Apple Music and YouTube Music.

  • Smart link

    A smart link is one web address for a release that sends each listener to the streaming app they already use.

  • 30-second rule

    On Spotify, a play counts as a stream once someone has listened to a track for 30 seconds or more.

  • Algorithmic playlist

    An algorithmic playlist is made automatically for each listener from what they play, like Spotify's Release Radar and Discover Weekly.

  • Editorial playlist

    An editorial playlist is a playlist picked by a streaming service's own team of editors, as opposed to one generated by its algorithm or made by users.

Sources

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