Label copy is the essential document that holds all the critical details for a music release, serving as the foundation for its distribution and administration.
Based on the provided definition (24-Mar-2023), label copy is the document that contains all the details of your music release, such as the title, artist, songwriter, producer, publisher, ISRC, UPC, and any other relevant information. It plays a crucial role in the music industry workflow.
What Information Does Label Copy Include?
Think of label copy as the official birth certificate and data sheet for your song or album. It compiles all the necessary information required to identify, track, and monetize the music. Common elements found in label copy documentation include:
- Release Details:
- Title: The name of the song or album.
- Artist(s): The main performing artist(s).
- Featured Artist(s): Any other artists featured on the track.
- Version: (e.g., Radio Edit, Extended Mix, Acoustic)
- Rights Holders & Contributors:
- Songwriter(s): The person(s) who wrote the composition.
- Publisher(s): The company(s) that administer the publishing rights.
- Producer(s): The person(s) who produced the recording.
- Record Label: The label releasing the music.
- Identifiers:
- ISRC (International Standard Recording Code): A unique code for a specific sound recording.
- UPC (Universal Product Code) / EAN (European Article Number): A unique barcode identifier for the product release (album, single, etc.).
- ISWC (International Standard Musical Work Code): A unique code for the musical composition (often linked via songwriter/publisher info).
- Other Relevant Information:
- Genre
- Explicit Content Tag
- Release Date
- Copyright Information (Year and Owner)
- Master Recording Owner
Why is Label Copy Important?
The accuracy and completeness of label copy are vital for several key processes in the music business. According to the definition, it is used to generate metadata, liner notes, and royalty statements for your music.
Here's a breakdown of its uses:
- Generating Metadata: This information is converted into digital metadata that travels with the music files to streaming services, download stores, and other platforms. Accurate metadata ensures the music is correctly displayed, searched, and categorized online.
- Creating Liner Notes: For physical releases or digital booklets, label copy provides the basis for creating credits and detailed information for listeners.
- Facilitating Royalty Payments: Publishers, songwriters, producers, and artists are paid royalties based on the usage of the music. Accurate label copy, including ISRC, UPC, and songwriter/publisher details, is essential for tracking usage and ensuring royalties flow to the correct rights holders.
- Distribution: Digital distributors and physical manufacturers require detailed label copy to process and distribute the music product correctly.
In essence, label copy serves as the central data hub that makes it possible for music to be identified, distributed, and properly accounted for in the digital and physical marketplace. Maintaining accurate label copy is a critical administrative task for artists and labels to ensure their music is handled correctly and that everyone involved gets paid.
