What an ISRC is
What the ISRC identifies, how it's structured, when UXEM assigns one, and why it locks after distribution.
The ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) identifies a specific recording: one track, in one specific version. It's not the release, it's the recording.
What an ISRC looks like
It's 12 characters with this structure: country, registrant, year and a 5-digit number. For example: QZHN52503975.
Each recording has its own. Two different recordings — even of the same song — carry different ISRCs.
Where it goes in UXEM
On each track, in the Industry Codes section.
- If you already have the recording's ISRC, enter it.
- If you leave it blank, UXEM assigns one during distribution.
When it locks
The ISRC freezes as soon as the release leaves Draft. And once the release has been delivered to distribution, it's locked permanently: it can't be changed.
That's why it's worth checking it carefully before submitting the release.
What it's for
It's the reference platforms use to report streams and sales of that recording. A correct ISRC is what makes that income reach your balance.
What it isn't
- It's not the UPC: that identifies the whole release.
- It's not the composition code: the work (music and lyrics) is identified separately.
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Related articles
What the UPC identifies, how it differs from the ISRC and the catalog number, and how UXEM assigns one.
When to reuse a recording's ISRC and when you need a new one.
Where to find a release's UPC and each track's ISRC, and how to request a full list.