Identifiers
ISRC identifies the recording. ISWC identifies the composition.
Two identifiers, two parallel registration chains. Confusing them — or omitting either — breaks the link between usage and ownership.
Overview
Recordings and compositions are tracked separately by the global rights system. Each has its own identifier and its own registration chain. Both are required for a catalog to be fully recognisable and collectable.
What each one is
An ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) identifies a specific recording — a master. It travels with the audio file across DSPs and broadcast systems. An ISWC (International Standard Musical Work Code) identifies the underlying composition — the song. It travels through publishing and PRO systems.
Why both are required
01
Without an ISRC, a recording cannot be matched to broadcast or streaming usage data.
02
Without an ISWC, a composition cannot be matched to performance or mechanical usage.
03
Without both, recordings and compositions sit unlinked — neither side collects in full.
04
Most catalogs have ISRCs through distribution, but no ISWCs because publishing was never set up.
How we operate it
01
Verify ISRCs
Existing codes confirmed and aligned across platforms.
02
Issue ISWCs
Compositions registered and identifiers propagated through publishing systems.
03
Link the two
Recordings tied back to compositions across rights databases.
Related infrastructure
Connected layers of the same rights system.
Next step
We start with a review of your catalog.
No commitment until we understand what is required.