ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a unique 12-character identifier assigned to individual sound recordings. It is used worldwide by streaming platforms, royalty collection agencies and music databases to identify and track recordings.

UPC (Universal Product Code) is a 12-digit barcode used to identify music releases (albums, EPs and singles) as commercial products. Every release requires a UPC for distribution and sales tracking.

Why is metadata important?

Accurate metadata ensures correct royalty collection, proper attribution to artists and contributors, proper categorization on streaming platforms and successful distribution. Incomplete or incorrect metadata can result in lost revenue and rejected releases.

How should artwork be prepared?

Artwork must be at least 3000x3000 pixels, in JPEG or PNG format, with RGB color mode and a 1:1 aspect ratio. It should be high quality, visually striking and compliant with platform guidelines. Use the Artwork Validator tool to check compliance.

What audio format should I use for distribution?

WAV (PCM) at 44,100 Hz sample rate and 16-bit or 24-bit depth is the industry standard. FLAC is also widely accepted as a lossless alternative. Avoid distributing in lossy formats like MP3 when possible.

Royalty Guide — Music Resources | Zaventra Music Group

Royalty Guide

15 min read Updated 2025-01-15

Types of Royalties

Music generates multiple streams of royalty income. Understanding each type is essential for maximizing revenue.

Master Royalties

Master royalties are generated from the exploitation of a specific sound recording. The owner of the master recording (typically the artist or label) earns master royalties when:

The recording is streamed on digital platforms.
The recording is sold physically or digitally.
The recording is played on radio or television.
The recording is used in films, commercials or games.

Master royalty rates vary by platform but typically range from $0.003 to $0.005 per stream on major DSPs.

Publishing Royalties

Publishing royalties are generated from the underlying musical composition (the song itself, not the recording). These are split between:

Songwriters — The creators of the lyrics and melody.
Publishers — The entities that administer the songwriting rights.

Publishing royalties include mechanical royalties (for reproduction) and performance royalties (for public performance).

Neighboring Rights

Neighboring rights royalties are paid to performers and master owners for the broadcast and public performance of sound recordings. These are separate from publishing royalties and are collected by neighboring rights organizations (e.g., PPL in the UK, SoundExchange in the US).

How Royalties Are Collected

Digital Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) — ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, PRS, GEMA.
Mechanical Rights Organizations — HFA, MCPS, Harry Fox Agency.
Neighboring Rights Organizations — SoundExchange, PPL, SUISA.
Distributors — Zaventra Music Group collects and distributes digital royalties.

Maximizing Revenue

Register with a PRO and collect performance royalties.
Ensure your distributor collects mechanical royalties.
Register for neighboring rights if eligible.
Keep metadata accurate for proper royalty matching.
Explore sync licensing opportunities.

Related Resources