Definition
An ISWC (International Standard Work Code) is a unique global identifier assigned to a musical composition, the underlying song, so that publishing royalties can be tracked across the world regardless of how many times it is recorded.
ISWC vs ISRC: Do Not Confuse Them
- An ISRC identifies a specific recording. Every different recording of a song gets its own ISRC. InterSpace assigns these for your releases.
- An ISWC identifies the song itself. All recordings and cover versions of the same composition share one ISWC.
Example: if three artists record the same song, there are three ISRCs (one per recording) but a single ISWC (one composition).
Where an ISWC Comes From
ISWCs are assigned on the publishing side, usually by your Performing Rights Organization or publishing administrator when you register a work, not by your distributor. You do not need an ISWC to distribute your recording through InterSpace, but you will encounter it when you register your songs to collect publishing royalties.
Why It Matters
Accurate ISWC registration helps make sure your performance and mechanical royalties are matched to the right song and paid to you. If you write your own music, getting your works registered (and receiving ISWCs) is part of collecting your full publishing income. For the recording-side codes, see What Are ISRC and UPC Codes?