IFPI to administer ISRCs for sub-Saharan Africa

ISRC is the data system that standardises the recording industry globally. A sound recording with an ISRC can be uniquely and permanently identified, helping to avoid ambiguity and simplifying the management of rights when those recordings are used by different services, across borders, or under different licensing deals.

The digital space, and streaming in particular, has created global supply chains, but taking advantage of worldwide distribution opportunities involves the management of repertoire and rights data. The cornerstone of this is the ability to identify and track recordings using ISRCs. 

“Diverse and exciting music from Africa continues to expand its impact around the world,” IFPI CEO Frances Moore said in relation to the development. “For African creators to efficiently manage and control the use of their music regionally and globally, the data systems underpinning music need to keep pace. The ISRC is an essential element of this – it will empower African music creators and drive the development of the industry right across the region.” 

IFPI regional director for sub-Saharan Africa Angela Ndambuki said: “The African music sector continues to develop at an incredible pace. We must ensure that it does so in line with international standards to make it sustainable for the long term. Registering for an ISRC is quick, simple and very low cost. We’re excited about offering this to music creators in Africa and providing them with the opportunity to control the future use of their recordings on a global scale.”

IFPI promotes the value of recorded music, campaigns for the rights of record producers and expands the commercial uses of recorded music. The federation boasts a membership of 1 300 major and independent companies in about 60 countries. It also has affiliated industry groups in 56 countries. In March, it released its latest Global Music Report, which breaks down revenues in the music industry according to regions.

Meanwhile, IFPI will host two free virtual seminars on the ISRC for music creators in sub-Saharan Africa on 13 and 22 July. Register for the Zoom seminars here and here.