Three Different Things
Artists often mix up Content ID, the MCN, and Official Artist Channels. They are three separate YouTube programs that solve different problems — and you can use all three together.
Content ID — Protects Your Music
Content ID is YouTube's fingerprinting system. When you tick YouTube Content ID during DSP selection on a release, your recording is registered, and any video on YouTube that uses your music is automatically detected and monetised for you.
What it covers: your music, wherever it is used on YouTube.
How you get it: included with your InterSpace distribution — no application needed.
MCN — Manages Your Channel
The Multi-Channel Network links your YouTube channel to the InterSpace network. The network manages your channel's monetisation, whitelists your uploads against claims, handles disputes and takedowns, and consolidates your channel revenue with your royalties.
What it covers: your channel and the videos you upload.
How you get it: by application — see How to Join the InterSpace MCN.
Official Artist Channel (OAC) — Your Artist Identity
An OAC merges your auto-generated topic channel with your main channel. You get the music note verification badge, combined subscriber counts, and a single official home for your music on YouTube.
What it covers: your artist profile on YouTube.
How you get it: by request once you meet YouTube's eligibility rules — see Requesting a YouTube Official Artist Channel (OAC).
Which Do You Need?
- Every artist: enable Content ID on your releases — it is free revenue protection
- Artists active on YouTube: join the MCN so your channel is managed, protected, and monetised properly
- Artists with 3+ releases and a dedicated channel: request an OAC for the verified artist presence