Every song on Spotify, Apple Music or Boomplay has an ISRC code behind it. You may never see it, but it’s how stores and royalty systems know which recording was played and who should be paid. Here’s what an ISRC is and how to get one.
Quick answer
- ISRC stands for International Standard Recording Code.
- It’s a 12-character code that identifies one specific recording, permanently.
- Each new version (remix, radio edit, live version) needs its own ISRC.
- Interfine Music gives you ISRC codes free when you release, or you can keep existing ones.
What an ISRC looks like
An ISRC has 12 characters in four parts:
| Part | Length | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Country code | 2 letters | The country of the registrant that issued the code |
| Registrant code | 3 characters | The organisation that issued the code |
| Year | 2 digits | The year the code was assigned |
| Designation | 5 digits | The unique number for that recording |
Why ISRCs matter
- Royalties: stores report plays by ISRC, so the code is how your earnings are matched to your song.
- Charts and data: streaming and sales data are tracked by ISRC.
- Content ID and rights: systems that identify your music use the ISRC as a reference.
- Re-releases: using the same ISRC when you move distributors keeps your play history connected.
When you need a new ISRC
| Situation | Same or new ISRC? |
|---|---|
| Same song on several stores | Same ISRC |
| Same recording on a single and later an album | Same ISRC |
| Remix, radio edit, extended mix or acoustic version | New ISRC |
| Live recording | New ISRC |
| Moving the same recording to a new distributor | Keep the original ISRC |
How to get an ISRC
Most independent artists get ISRCs from their distributor. Interfine Music provides ISRC codes free for every recording you release with us. If your song already has an ISRC from a previous release, enter it when you upload so your history stays linked. Not sure whether your song has one? Message our support team on WhatsApp (+254 791 393 533).
ISRC vs UPC vs ISWC
- ISRC identifies a recording.
- UPC (barcode) identifies a release, such as a single, EP or album.
- ISWC identifies a composition (the song itself) and is used by collecting societies.
The short version
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Create your accountWhatsApp +254 791 393 533Frequently asked questions
Is an ISRC code free?
With Interfine Music, yes. We provide ISRC codes free for every recording you release with us. If a recording already has an ISRC, keep using it.
Can two songs share one ISRC?
No. Each recording has its own ISRC. Different versions, like remixes or radio edits, each need a new code.
Should I keep my ISRC when switching distributors?
Yes. Reusing the original ISRC keeps your streaming history and data connected to the recording.
About the author
Anaya Zawadi is the Content Manager at Interfine Music, the Africa-first music distributor founded in Nairobi in 2024. She writes practical guides that help independent African artists release, protect and earn from their music.
