Source: Michael Oni LinkedIn

What is ISNI?

ISNI = International Standard Name Identifier. A 16-digit number that uniquely identifies people or organizations involved in creative works (e.g. musicians, composers, producers, labels, publishers). It’s an ISO standard (ISO 27729) used globally. Think of it as a digital passport for creators — making sure your name, credits, and works are correctly tracked worldwide.

Why Musicians Need It?

• Disambiguation: Many artists share the same name. ISNI ensures credits/royalties go to the right person.

• Data Linking: Connects your identity across music rights databases (PROs, publishers, DSPs, libraries).

• Royalty Flow: Works alongside IPI/CAE and ISWC to make sure money finds you.

• Global Recognition: Used by libraries, PROs, streaming platforms, and rights societies.

ISNI vs Other Codes

• IPI/CAE → Identifies you as a rights holder within PRO systems (e.g., ASCAP, PRS, BMI).

• ISNI → Broader, cross-industry identifier for your public identity (music, books, film, etc.).

• ISWC → Identifies a specific musical work.

• ISRC → Identifies a specific sound recording.

👉 Example:

• Taylor Swift the person → ISNI

• Taylor Swift the songwriter → IPI

• All Too Well (song) → ISWC

• All Too Well (recordings) → ISRCs (multiple for each release/version)

Where to Get an ISNI?

Some PROs (e.g., PRS for Music, ASCAP) issue ISNIs to their members automatically. You can also request one directly via the ISNI International Agency.

Use Cases in Music

• Publishers & Labels: Clean metadata and ensure royalties are paid to the correct identity.

• Digital Distribution: Spotify, Apple Music, etc., rely on ISNI for accurate artist/label data.

• Libraries & Archives: National libraries use ISNI to connect works to their creators.

Conclusion

ISNI is your global creative ID, complementing IPI/ISWC/ISRC. It prevents mix-ups, strengthens metadata, and supports accurate royalty distribution worldwide.