Topic 07 of 16
Metadata & Music IDs
Why Metadata Matters
Metadata is the information embedded in your audio files and attached to your release. It's how streaming platforms, PROs, and distributors identify your song, attribute it to you, and route royalties to the right people. Missing or incorrect metadata is one of the most common reasons royalties go uncollected.
Key Identifiers
ISRC — International Standard Recording Code
The ISRC uniquely identifies each individual sound recording (master). It is the primary ID used by streaming platforms and collection societies to track plays and pay master royalties.
- Format: CC-XXX-YY-NNNNN (2-letter country code + registrant code + year + sequence)
- Your distributor (DistroKid, TuneCore, etc.) typically assigns ISRCs automatically
- You can also register directly through your national ISRC agency
- Each recording version (original, radio edit, acoustic version) needs its own ISRC
ISWC — International Standard Musical Work Code
The ISWC identifies the musical composition — the underlying song, not the recording. It's used by PROs (ASCAP, BMI, SOCAN, PRS, etc.) to track and pay performance and mechanical royalties.
- Format: T-XXXXXXXXX-C (T + 9 digits + check digit)
- Assigned when you register your work with a PRO
- Remains the same regardless of how many times the song is recorded
UPC / EAN — Product Barcode
The UPC (Universal Product Code) or EAN (European Article Number) identifies the release as a product — the album or single as a commercial item. Your distributor assigns this when you submit a release.
IPI — Interested Party Information Number
Your personal identifier as a rights holder, assigned when you register with a PRO. Used in split sheets and royalty claims to identify you specifically.
In-File Metadata Tags
Embed these tags in every audio file you distribute:
| Tag | Content |
|---|---|
| Title | Exact song title (match your PRO registration) |
| Artist | Primary artist name |
| Album | Album / EP / Single name |
| Track number | Position in the release |
| Genre | Primary genre |
| Year | Release year |
| ISRC | Your ISRC code for this recording |
| Composer / Writer | Full legal name(s) of all composers |
| Publisher | Publishing company name (or "Self-Published") |
| Copyright | © Year Name — e.g., © 2026 Lena Voss |
| Label | Record label or "Independent" |
| Language | Language of lyrics |
Metadata tools
Use MP3Tag (free, Windows/Mac), Kid3 (free, all platforms), or your DAW's export settings to embed metadata before delivery. Your distributor's dashboard will also collect metadata during submission.
Common Metadata Mistakes
- Inconsistent artist name capitalization across platforms
- Missing ISRC codes on each track
- Incorrect or missing songwriter/composer credits
- Wrong release date or year in embedded tags
- Uploading files without any embedded metadata at all
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is based on official sources when available. We are not affiliated with any government or legal organization. This is not legal advice.