Why You Need an ISNI ID as an Independent Artist (Before It’s Too Late)

In today’s digital music world, standing out and getting paid correctly is harder than ever. If you’re an independent artist, you might be unknowingly leaving money on the table—simply because your name isn’t properly registered across streaming platforms and industry databases. That’s where the ISNI ID (International Standard Name Identifier) comes in.

What is an ISNI ID?

The International Standard Name Identifier (ISNI) is a unique 16-digit code that

ensures your music and creative work are correctly attributed to you. Think of it as your digital fingerprint that eliminates confusion, protects your identity, and ensures you get every royalty you’ve earned.

Why You Need an ISNI ID Today

1. Your Name Isn’t Unique (Even If You Think It Is)

   • Many independent artists unknowingly share names with other musicians. Streaming platforms may merge your profiles, credit your music to someone else, or worse—direct your earnings to the wrong artist.

2. You’re Losing Visibility & Credibility

   • Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and Amazon use ISNI IDs to correctly catalog artists. Without it, your music can get buried under someone else’s profile.

3. Your Royalties Could Be Going to Someone Else

   • Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) and music licensing agencies track royalties using ISNI IDs. If you don’t have one, you risk not getting paid for streams, performances, or licensing deals.

4. It’s Becoming an Industry Standard

   • Streaming platforms, labels, and music rights databases increasingly require ISNI IDs. If you don’t secure yours, you may be locked out of important industry opportunities.

   
   

Real Talk: What Happens If You Don’t Have an ISNI ID?

Meet "Alex", an Independent Singer-Songwriter I currently work with ( yes... he's cool with sharing his experience :))

Alex had worked hard to release his debut album across major streaming platforms. He promoted his music, built a fanbase, and started seeing streams grow. But there was one big problem.........

His songs were appearing under ANOTHER artist named “Alex Carter!!!!!!!!! BIG PROBLEM! Why you ask?

• 🚨 Fans couldn’t find his music—they kept messaging him, asking where to listen.

• 🚨 His royalties went to the wrong Alex Carter, meaning months of lost income.

• 🚨 Spotify and Apple Music kept merging his tracks under someone else’s profile, hurting his branding and credibility.

For months, he fought to fix this issue. The solution? Registering an ISNI ID. Once he did, streaming platforms properly separated his music, and he finally started receiving the royalties and recognition he deserved.

Don’t let this happen to you.... Seriously!

So....How do you get your ISNI ID (In 3 Simple Steps)??

1. Go to the ISNI website (https://www.isni.org/) or apply through SoundExchange or Pro Music Rights.

2. Submit your professional details and confirm your identity.

3. Receive your unique ISNI code and integrate it into all your artist profiles and streaming metadata.

   
   

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Career Before It’s Too Late

Your artist name is your brand, and without an ISNI ID, you’re at risk of losing money, fans, and opportunities. Don’t wait until your music disappears under someone else’s profile—secure your ISNI ID today.

Need help setting up your ISNI ID and optimizing your metadata? Tekmatrix Sounds Consulting offers expert guidance to keep your music career on track. Contact us today with an introductory call and learn how this will impact your business model