First thing's first. Have you copywritten your songs? If not, please Copyright your songs with the Library of Congress. Here is the link to register an account and get started: Electronic Copyright Office (eCO) - 3. You must protect your work. These are your thoughts; your feelings put into words and tunes. You don't want anyone trying to rip you off, and with a copyright, you won't have to fight!
Next, it's time to Register with a PRO (Performance Rights Organization). A performance rights organization or PRO collects royalties and licenses for copyrighted music, ensuring that songwriters, composers, and publishers are paid when their work is performed publicly.
Here are the 10 Top PROs in today's music industry:
Once you copyright your songs and register with a PRO, it's time to discuss distribution for your release. In order to distribute your music, you will need ISRC codes.
What are ISRC codes and why do you need them?
ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is the globally recognized standard numbering system for audio and music video recordings. It comprises a 12-digit alphanumeric code and functions as a universal identification number for each sound recording.
ISRC codes are primarily used to identify and catalog individual songs (tracks) on an album. The ISRC allows you to get paid for digital music sales by ensuring that your royalties are tracked properly. ISRC codes are necessary to sell your individual tracks via Apple Music (iTunes) and other online music distributors. They are also required for any songs that you plan to offer for streaming on Spotify and other streaming services.
Similarly, you need to get ISRC codes in order to have your songs participate in the Billboard charts. In order to have a chance at making the Billboard music charts, your release must be registered with SoundScan (formerly) now called Luminate Data using your ISRC codes for the individual tracks. If you do not register then your sales figures are not counted, and you remain invisible to the system.
Is the ISRC code different from a UPC code?
Yes, it is.
The ISRC is your Sound/Video Recording Identifier. The International Standard Recording Code (ISRC) is the standard unique international identifier for sound and music video recording itself. The ISRC is tied to the recording in the track and not the carrier of the track (CD/Vinyl/Digital Album or individual digital sound/video file).
The UPC is your Release Identifier. The Universal Product Code (UPC) is the standard unique identifier for the release that carries your audio or video performance(s). The UPC may identify a single, an EP, an LP and the various versions thereof (digital download, CD, vinyl, tape, or DVD).
You can get both the required ISRC and UPC codes here: www.isrc.com
Or the codes can be provided by a Music Distribution Platform. Music Distribution is the process of making music available to consumers, including on streaming platforms, in retail stores, and on social media. It involves:
- Delivering music: Getting music onto platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
- Managing recordings: Ensuring recordings are properly managed.
- Collecting royalties: Making sure royalties from sales and streams are collected and accounted for.
- Promoting music: Providing tools to help promote music, such as promo campaigns, playlists, and pre-save links.
Here are some music distributors for independent artists:
Symphonic Distribution | Horus Music | Record Union | Soundrop AS | Songtradr | Too Lost | The Orchard | YouTube Music
Here are other resources to help guide you with distribution options:
Other Sites to upload/sell music:
One final tip! If you are a creator or copyright holder, register online with SoundExchange to receive royalty payments that may be due to you.
SoundExchange is the largest neighboring rights organization in the world. They help creators collect royalties whenever their music is played internationally. For more information and to register, visit soundexchange.com
Now you're all set to release your new music. Go on and be free, be bold, be creative, be awesome!
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