What is ISNI, Why It Matters, and How to Get One

1) What is ISNI?

ISNI (International Standard Name Identifier) is a 16-digit international code that gives artists, writers, producers, and organizations a unique and verifiable public identity worldwide. This code ensures that individuals with the same name are not confused with one another, and that rights, revenues, and credits are correctly assigned. For detailed information and application, visit: ISNI Official Website

2) What is ISNI used for?

  • Prevents name confusion: For example, if there are three artists named “Example Artist,” ISNI clearly distinguishes which “Example Artist” produced which work.

  • Correct digital distribution mapping: On DSPs (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, etc.), metadata is correctly linked, reducing the risk of streams and revenues being assigned to the wrong profile.

  • Supports copyright and revenue tracking: Ensures that your recordings, compositions, and credits are properly linked for accurate royalty distribution.

  • Industry and corporate recognition: Major companies (e.g., Universal Music Group) have adopted ISNI, indicating that it will become an increasingly central standard.

3) Is obtaining an ISNI difficult or expensive?

Short answer: No — in many cases, it’s free or low-cost. ISNIs are officially issued through Registration Agencies; some agencies charge a fee, while music-industry-focused platforms (like Sound Credit) offer free and automated ISNI assignments.

4) Step-by-step: How an artist/member can get an ISNI

Following these steps, a musician, producer, or behind-the-scenes professional can obtain their ISNI:

Step 1 – Prepare necessary information:

  • Full name (stage name + real name if applicable)

  • Birth year / establishment year (for organizations)

  • Country, contact email

  • If possible: discography/credits or identity-verifying links (official website, digital distribution profile)

Step 2 – Choose the method:

  • Easiest / free option: Sign up on a music-industry platform like Sound Credit and use the “Claim/Create ISNI” function. This is free and automatic for many independent artists.

  • Official route: Select an agency from the ISNI website’s Registration Agencies list and follow their process. (Agencies vary by country or sector.)

  • Alternatives: Some national libraries, copyright organizations, or data services (e.g., Wiseband, British Library) can also issue ISNIs; membership or fees may vary.

Step 3 – Register / apply:
Sign up on the chosen platform. (On Sound Credit: create an account → complete onboarding → request/create ISNI from the top-right of the dashboard.)
The information you provide will be added to the ISNI database; some agencies may require additional documents.

Step 4 – Verify and use your ISNI:
Once assigned, you will receive your 16-digit ISNI. Add it to your artist profiles, metadata, distribution, and royalty platforms. This ensures your identity “travels” with your projects.

5) Practical considerations

  • Only one ISNI per person: Do not obtain multiple ISNIs for the same individual; if an incorrect ISNI exists, contact the agency to correct it.

  • Maintain metadata consistency: Note all stage names, real names, collaborations, and spelling variants (“DJ Ahmet” vs “Ahmet Yılmaz”) to avoid confusion later.

  • ISNI is not a copyright guarantee: ISNI strengthens your identity but you still need PROs (performance rights organizations), distribution, and other codes (ISRC, ISWC, etc.) to monetize your music.

6) Frequently Asked Questions (SSD – Straight, Short, Direct)

Q: How long does it take to get an ISNI?
A: It depends on the platform; automated services like Sound Credit are usually immediate/very quick. Official agencies may take a few days.

Q: Can someone have multiple ISNIs?
A: Each person is intended to have a single ISNI. If multiple appear, contact the agency for merging/correction.

Q: Is ISNI paid?
A: Some agencies charge a fee. However, free and automated assignments exist for music industry users (e.g., Sound Credit).

7) Example

Scenario: You are an independent producer releasing music under the stage name “Merve.”
Steps: Sign up on Sound Credit → create a profile → select “Claim/Create ISNI” → add ISNI to distribution and metadata. This prevents confusion with other “Merve” artists and ensures correct attribution.

8) Quick Resources (Starting Points)

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