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Tutorials, Glossary & FAQ
Here you will find questions and explanations about the information requested in the MetaMusic metadata management tool. If you can't find the answer you're looking for or if you would like to explore a particular question further, please don't hesitate to reach out to the MetaMusic team or participate in one of our support sessions.
147 résultat(s)
Tutoriels
Retrouvez ici tous les tutoriels.
Importing the SOCAN catalogue – What to do when you cannot add your works to the upload? (New SOCAN portal)
How to Download Your SOCAN Works Catalogue?
How to Make Your BAnQ Digital Legal Deposit?
How to edit a sound recording – “Title Alias”
How to edit the First Maker in a Sound Recording
Sound Recording – Associated Work – How to link credits for a work that does not exist in the system (Covers)
Sound Recording – Associated Work – How to link work credits
How to Edit a Sound Recording? – “Sound Recording Details”
How to create a new sound recording?
How to Upload Your SOCAN Catalogue
How to Add Members to a Band?
How to Add a Company Role?
How to Create a Company?
Where to add your BAnQ client number? – Maker Role
I Received an Invitation to Join MétaMusique Even Though I Already Have an Account. Why and What Should I Do? (Merging Entities)
Panorama Connection: How to Add an Email in Your Octave Account?
How to Add/Edit My Aliases?
How to Edit the Roles of Production and Technical Team, Arranger, and Design Contributor?
Artisti and Panorama Member Status: What to do if the status is not validated?
How to Edit the Role of Maker of Sound Recording as an Individual and Connecting to Panorama
How to Add/Edit Account Managers?
How to Add Your Artisti Member Number and Validate Your Member Status for Deposits?
How to Edit the Role of Performer?
How to Add the Roles of Production and Technical Team, Arranger, and Design Contributor?
How to Edit Your Creator Role and Adding Your IPI
How do I complete/edit an individual account?
How to request artist creation rights?
How to create an account for your artist? (Creating an account for a third party)
How to create your personal contributor profile?
How to create a Company in MetaMusic
Lexique
Retrouvez ici toutes les définitions.
Disc Number
The CD number identifies a specific disc within a release. In pre-digital times, it was also used to suggest the listening order of the discs.
Remastered
Remastering, also called remastering or re-mastering, involves creating a new master for a music album. This process involves revising the original recording using modern techniques to produce a sound quality more faithful to the original performance.
Special Edition
The term “Special Edition” refers to an enhanced version of an original format, created to mark a particular occasion. This edition can take various forms, such as the addition of unreleased tracks, the inclusion of a second CD alongside the original album, or the addition of bonus features previously only available on physical media, now accessible on digital platforms. It can also be a limited or numbered edition. The occasions for creating a special edition are varied, including celebrating the anniversary of an original album’s release or commemorating a number of years in the artist’s career.
Reissue
The term “reissue” refers to the addition of new tracks to an original musical project. This can take various forms, such as the integration of unreleased tracks, the inclusion of a second CD with the original album, or the addition of bonus material that was previously only available in physical format, now available on digital platforms.
Format Name
The format name is the name under which a work appears depending on its format. It is rare for the publication name to vary from one format to another. Example: Original Album + “publication name”
Date of first release
Record Label
We distinguish between record labels and sound recording makers. A record label is involved in the release process, and therefore in the format. It will notably handle the marketing and promotional aspects of a release, while the maker is involved in the production of the master tapes. This implies that there is also a financial contribution towards part or all of the sound recording.
UPC Code
Entry Rule
Your UPC code will be requested in your Publications section under: Formats/Products
The UPC, commonly referred to as a barcode, is designed to hold the physical product code, if applicable, and can also be used for digital-only products. In Canada, you can contact GS1 to obtain this code. Codes can vary in length, from 8 to 14 characters, depending on the country or territory where the album is intended and the type of Universal Product Code used.
Track Number
The track number identifies the order in which a title appears in a release.
Contributor
A contributor is someone who makes a significant contribution to a musical creation. This can include the performing artists and musicians featured in the sound recordings, the creators of the work (whether in terms of lyrics or musical composition), studio technicians, arrangers, producers who oversee the recording, or design collaborators involved in creating the components included in the marketing of the final product.
Each contributor brings their own expertise and talent to shape the overall creation.
Product Format
The product format refers to how a release is published and distributed. It can encompass various media, such as:
– Physical media: Physical album formats include CDs, vinyl records, cassettes, etc. Each format can influence audio quality, album length, and the listening experience.
– Digital: Albums can be distributed as digital files via streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, or as downloads from online stores like iTunes.
– Special editions: Some albums are released in special editions with bonus content, extended booklets, or other exclusive features.
Component
The product format refers to how a release is published and distributed. It can encompass various media, such as:
– Physical media: Physical album formats include CDs, vinyl records, cassettes, etc. Each format can influence audio quality, album length, and the listening experience.
– Digital: Albums can be distributed as digital files via streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, or as downloads from online stores like iTunes.
– Special editions: Some albums are released in special editions with bonus content, extended booklets, or other exclusive features.
Alias of a Release
Aliases are primarily used for translating publications or when multiple spellings are possible. Examples: numbers written out in words, characters not found in certain alphabets, the full spelling of abbreviations.
Album Sub-Genre
A subgenre is a category of musical style that replaces the musical genre, thus being able to refine towards a more specific musical current and allowing more detail to be added to the initially selected genre.
Album Genre
The genre of the album defines the musical style or musical family to which the album belongs.
Release Title
The title of a release is the name under which a collection of recorded music tracks (a product or single) is grouped and published, whether on physical media such as a CD or vinyl record, or in digital format. It serves to identify and market all the sound recordings presented in that specific album. It should be noted that a product title can vary depending on the country and territory.
In Concert
Defines an album recording captured in a concert or live recording context.
Various Artists
This is an optional field. Check this box if several featured artists participated in the release.
Album
An album is a compilation of sound recordings, usually created by an artist or group and released together on an audio or digital medium. These collections can vary in size, from a few songs to ten or more, and are often linked by a theme, concept, or period of creation. Albums are a popular format for distributing recorded music, offering a cohesive musical experience.
They can tell stories, express emotions or ideas, and are available on various media such as vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, downloads, and online streaming services.
Version
Whether it is original or has undergone modification (remixing, re-recording, etc.), this field allows you to specify which version of a track it is.
Musical Genre and Sub-Genres
MetaMusic lets you specify your musical genres and subgenres by selecting from lists used by various sources within the digital music ecosystem.
While a musical genre represents the main style of your work, a subgenre offers a more specific categorization within a broader genre. For example:
Genre: Rock
Subgenre: Punk rock
Recording Studio
It is agreed that the studio name will always be that of a legal entity. The name of a legal entity, whose syntax is similar to that of a natural person, is entered only in this field. Thus, the artist name Marie-Mai, acting as the studio, will be entered in the “name” field.
This refers to the name of the studio(s) used solely for recording. The studio used for mixing is entered separately. The mastering studio must be added to the Release by the record label or distributor.
Entry Rules
Search for and select the studio in the search bar. If it doesn’t appear in the list, click “Send an invitation.”
Enter the studio name.
If you don’t want your studio to be identifiable to MetaMusic members, select the “Unlisted” option. If it’s a solo studio, select the “Private Name” option.
Sound Recording
The sound recording identifier is an internal number specific to the MetaMusic platform which facilitates the search for a recording without needing to identify it by name.
Entry Rule
An ID is automatically assigned to each sound recording. It cannot be changed.
End Date
This refers to the end of the recording session in question. This field, associated with sound recording sessions, constitutes the official recording date required by certain recipients.
Start Date
This refers to the start of the relevant recording sessions. This field, along with the sound recording sessions, constitutes the official recording date required by some recipients.
Entry Rule
MetaMusic allows you to add the start date of your recording. You can enter the day, month, and year. It is suggested that you enter both the month and year. However, only the year is required.
Maker
The maker is responsible for carrying out the essential operations related to the initial sound recording, including negotiating contracts with performing artists and financing the production of the sound recording and its distribution media. Generally, the maker assumes the financial risk, which can be divided into two main categories: the financing of the sound recording, repaid primarily through sales, and marketing investments, including the production of the media, which are not recoverable.
Percentage of the Language Used
Percentage of each language expressed in the multiple entries of the language field.
Submission Date
The submission date is automatically generated and corresponds to the date on which the user completed and submitted their submission.
Instrument Played
This field allows the main artist to be associated with one or more musical instruments. When dealing with a group, each individual within the group will be documented under the musicians and singers fields, and their instrument will be associated with the fields provided for this purpose.
Artist Category
This field allows you to specify the role or status of a musician or artist during a sound recording, with three options available:
Lead Artist: The main artist featured on the recording.
Featured Artist: An artist participating in the recording, also considered a featured artist.
Accompanying Artist: A musician or backing vocalist accompanying the main artist.
Artist
The “name” field can contain the surname of an individual or the identity of a legal entity or brand, for example, in the case of a musical group. If the artist is primarily identified by their stage name or the name of the group, this information is entered only in this field, without a first name. This field is equivalent to various English synonyms such as “Lead performer,” “Solist,” “Performing Group,” “Main Artist,” “Main Performer,” “Main Performing Artist,” or “Primary Artist.”
Alias of the Title
A title alias is an alternative name or variation of the original title, under which the work or sound recording may also be known. This can include:
Linguistic variations of the sound recording: in cases where the title is translated into other languages for international releases and where several spellings are possible during translation. This includes writing out numbers in full, representing characters absent in some alphabets, or expanding acronyms and abbreviations.
Abbreviations or simplifications: shortened or simplified versions of the title, or conversely, expanding acronyms and abbreviations or writing out numbers in full.
Common or popular names: informal titles that fans often use.
Alternative versions: slightly modified titles for remixes, covers, or special editions.
Among other things, they allow you to:
Facilitate searches: If a song is known by different names, an alias allows fans to easily find it, regardless of the title they use to search for it.
Manage linguistic variations: When songs are broadcast or sold in countries with different languages, translations or adaptations of the title may be used, and the alias allows you to group all these versions under the same work. Harmonize titles across different versions: Artists sometimes release remixes, acoustic versions, or re-recordings with slightly modified titles. Aliases make it easy to identify all these versions as being related to the original song. Take into account popular or informal titles: Some song titles are shortened or modified by the public (for example, fans shorten “Don’t Stop Believin'” to “Don’t Stop”). An official alias allows you to recognize these variations without confusion.
Optimizing rights and license management: In music databases, aliases help track all uses of a song, facilitating the management of copyright and licenses associated with all its versions.
In short, title aliases are used to simplify the management, search, and recognition of a song in all its possible forms and versions.
Entry Rule
The title alias is an optional field for your submission. A work or sound recording can have 0, 1, or more title aliases.
Good to Know
Title aliases play a role in music discoverability by allowing listeners to easily find a song, even if it’s known by multiple names. When a song is searched for online, title variations—whether translations, abbreviations, or popular nicknames—can hinder fans’ ability to locate it. Aliases eliminate this problem by centralizing all versions and names under a single entry, making the song more accessible. This is especially useful in streaming databases, where a search for any variant can lead to the original song. Aliases are also valuable for international versions of tracks, which often have linguistically adapted titles. By incorporating these variants, platforms maximize the chances that listeners will discover and listen to the music, regardless of the name they search for it under.
Track Title
The term “Track Title” refers to the name given to a specific sound recording.
Entry Rule
This is a required field. The track title should not contain details about the version; a separate field exists for this purpose.
Example: if it is a live recording or if the track features a special guest.
Lyrics
This required, open-ended field allows you to enter the complete lyrics of the work, if applicable. It can include multiple languages and has no text length restrictions.
You will be asked to add the lyrics to both the written work and the audio recording. The lyrics in the written work and the audio recording do not have to be identical.
Entry Rule
Enter the full lyrics of the work for discoverability. Do not enter indicators such as: “refrain”, “verse”, “chorus” or even the title of the work.
ISRC (International Standard Recording Code)
The ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a standard established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It allows for the identification of sound recordings, particularly music tracks, using a 12-character sequence, such as CB-YZ9-22-00001. The first two letters of the ISRC code identify the country where the first owner code was assigned. The first owner code, composed of three alphanumeric characters, precedes the ISRC and serves to identify the original producer.
Entry Rule
In the model proposed by MétaMusique, the ISRC code is considered mandatory. It will also be mandatory when you file your declaration with Soproq. However, it is not mandatory for your declaration with Artisti.
To obtain your three-character First Owner Code, simply contact Soproq (Quebec) or obtain manager access from SCPP (France).
Best practice dictates that the First Owner Code should always be the source of the ISRCs for a given producer’s recordings, rather than relying on an intermediary.
It is each producer’s responsibility to maintain a list of their ISRCs and provide them when required.
Every new sound recording (track) must have a unique ISRC code. The ISRC of a sound recording must never be changed. In the following cases, a new ISRC should be created:
– Remixing (e.g., radio edit)
– Re-recording
– Modifying the recording’s duration
– Using a portion of a recording
– Restoring historical recordings
– Compiling from modified recordings
– The code must be encoded into the medium during mastering and provided upon delivery to digital platforms. This is a mandatory prerequisite for the delivery and exploitation of a track.
Length of the Recording
This information indicates the total duration of a work listed in the track list. It is usually displayed next to the track title and is read, displayed, and encoded by playback software.
Entry Rule
This is a mandatory field that is automatically generated but sometimes needs to be entered manually. Minutes are entered in the first field. Seconds are entered in the second field.
Explicit Content
The parental warning is a warning system created in the United States in 1985. Its use is not legally mandatory. However, the disclosure of explicit content is mandatory.
Three possible values: None, Cleaned, Explicit Content
None: The audio recording contains no explicit content.
Clean: The original audio recording had explicit content that has been replaced or silenced.
Explicit: The audio recording contains obscene or vulgar words or speech.
Entry Rule
This is a mandatory field. However, it’s subjective information often used for marketing purposes, particularly to emphasize the radical nature of a proposal. There’s no formal legal requirement for this information, and many independent record labels don’t bother with it. However, it is required by some platforms or aggregators.
Publisher Name
The name of a publisher must always correspond to a legal entity. If a legal entity has a syntax similar to that of a natural person, its name must be entered in this field.
Entry Rule
When there are multiple stakeholders or companies involved in managing the publications, you have the option to mention them by assigning them specific roles.
Creator Role
Specifies the role the creator plays in this specific work. For the definition of each role, refer to the “Individuals and Roles” section of the repository.
Entry Rule
Select the role from the options in the drop-down list. If a creator has played multiple roles within the same work, you can add that contributor multiple times by selecting different roles for them each time.
Creator
This is the creator’s unique identifier. It allows the creator to be identified unambiguously and linked to the work to which they contributed.
Entry Rule
The ID is automatically assigned by the system so that each ID is unique. No input is required.
Percentage
This field represents the percentage of languages recorded using the ISO-639-2 code, which refers to a standardized list of languages and includes the main Indigenous languages spoken in Canada.
Entry Rule
This field can be selected multiple times.
Instrumentation
The “Instrumentation” section provides details on the instruments used, including a description of the instrument accessible via a drop-down list and the number of musicians playing it in a work. You can specify the number of musicians playing the same instrument in the work.
Entry Rule
The “Instrumentation” section is reserved for classical works. Add the instruments used via the drop-down menu, specify the number of musicians, and add notes for each instrument. This field can be annotated optionally and freely.
Number of Musicians
Specifies the number of musicians playing the same instrument in the work.
Instrument Details
The details about the instruments relate to the description of the instrument used and the number of musicians who play it in a work.
Work Title
The title of the work corresponds to the name given to a musical creation.
Entry Rule
MetaMusic differentiates the title of the work from that of the recording of that same work.
Original Work in the Public Domain
An original work in the public domain is an artistic creation that is no longer subject to copyright. These works are accessible to the public without copyright restrictions and can be freely reproduced or reinterpreted. This option is only valid if you have selected “The work is an adaptation or an arrangement”.
Entry Rule
To use this option, you must have previously selected “The work is an adaptation or an arrangement” in the previous section of the work details.
SOCAN Number
The SOCAN number is an identifier that allows you to recognize a member of the Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN).
Entry Rule
Your SOCAN number can be found in the right-hand section of your SOCAN portal homepage.
Opus Number
The opus number is a term used in classical music to designate a musical composition. The number that accompanies it indicates the position of the musical piece within the composer’s complete works.
Entry Rule
Optional section dedicated to classical works.
Movement
In classical music, a movement represents an internal section of a musical composition. Each movement is identified by a number that indicates its position in the chronological sequence of the work.
Entry Rule
Optional section dedicated to classical works.
Catalogue Number
A catalog number is a combination of numbers, letters, or both, which varies in length and is used to identify a work according to its producer. The catalog number is an internal number assigned by the producer or record label to list the products in their catalog.
Entry Rule
Optional section dedicated to classical works.
Number of Voices
Number of singers participating in a work.
Entry Rule
Optional section dedicated to classical works.
ISWC (International Standard Musical Work Code)
The International Standard Work Code (ISWC) is a standard issued by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for identifying musical works. It is also an identifier managed by CISAC, and its association with the International Standard Recording Code (ISRC) is an important industry objective for linking works to their recordings. The code consists of one letter and ten numbers: T-123.456.789-C
Entry Rule
Your ISWC code will be required when editing the artwork details. You can find your ISWC codes on your SOCAN portal.
Instrumental Work
The instrumental work option is dedicated to works without lyrics and entirely instrumental.
Entry Rule
If instrumental tracks have been incorporated into your piece, these are then considered instruments, keeping your work exclusively instrumental.
Length of Work
The duration in minutes and seconds is the third field to be completed in the details of the work.
Entry Rule
This is a required field.
Year of Composition
The year in which a work was composed and completed. This implies having composed the melodic lines for the main instruments, including the voice, but excluding arrangements. Writing a large majority of the lyrics is required.
Entry Rule
If the composition of the work spans several years, we will consider the year in which it was completed.
Adaptation or Arrangement
A musical adaptation is a transformation of an existing composition to create a new version while preserving certain original elements. This can involve changes in instrumentation, harmony, rhythm, melody, or musical style. Adaptations allow artists to offer their own interpretation of a work while retaining its core. They are common in music and can lead to a variety of artistic approaches to the same song, whether through re-orchestration, re-harmonization, transposition, remixing, or stylistic adaptation.
Entry Rule
You will find this option in the form of a checkbox when you view the details of the work.
Member Number
This is your collective management society membership number.
Account Manager: Read-Only Status
An account manager with a “Read-only” status has limited access to view works, sound recordings and/or publications without the possibility of modification.
Account Manager: Administrator Status
An account manager with administrator status has full access to the account, including creating metadata and managing stakeholders.
Entry Rule
By default, MetaMusic will assign you an administrator role when you create your account.
If you assign a second administrator, they will have the same access and rights as you.
City of Headquarters
The head office corresponds to the main administrative and legal address of a company, serving as the official domicile where the management and administration of the company are usually located.
Company Alias
All the names under which your company could have been identified.
For example, MetaMusic Records could have the following aliases:
– Disques MetaMusic
– MetaMusic Inc
– MetaMusic Records
– MetaMusic Records Inc
Entry Rule
During your ISNI search, any aliases you enter will be taken into account. Therefore, it is particularly important not to forget any name under which your company might have operated or been identified by a third party.
Pen Name
Pen names are fictitious or alternative names commonly used in the music industry by creators to represent themselves in the creation of their works rather than using their real name. Creators adopt pen names for various reasons, including artistic, marketing, or privacy considerations.
Entry Rule
Your pen name can consist of a first and last name. If not, you can complete the last name and leave the first name blank.
Emerging Artist
Are you an emerging artist as defined by the CRTC?
Definition:
A Canadian artist is considered an emerging artist until 48 months have passed since the release of their first commercially released song.
For the purposes of this definition, the concept of an artist includes duos, trios, or groups of artists operating under a defined identity. If a member of a duo, trio, or group embarks on a solo career or forms a new duo, trio, or group with other partners under a new identity, the solo artist or the duo, trio, or group will be considered an “emerging artist” according to the criteria above.
A song is defined here as a single audio track or recording that is broadcast and/or marketed online and on the radio.
If you claim to be an emerging artist, you will need to provide:
- Song title
- ISRC
- Release date
At the end of the 48-month period, emerging artist status will be automatically removed by the system.
Indigenous Status
In Canada, Indigenous status refers to the legal status and special recognition granted to the country’s Indigenous peoples, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.
Indigenous status in Canada is complex, with many variations and nuances from one Indigenous group to another, depending on their history, treaties, land claims, and governance.
If you identify as Indigenous—that is, First Nations, Métis, or Inuit—you can identify as such with your service provider.
Canadian Status
According to the CRTC, a Canadian is defined as one of the following:
- a Canadian citizen
- a permanent resident as defined by the Immigration Act of 1976
- a person whose ordinary place of residence was in Canada for the six months preceding their contribution to a musical work
Main Role
The main role is defined as the predominant function that a person or legal entity performs in the accomplishment of their tasks.
Entry Rule
When you register with MetaMusic, you will be asked for your primary role. However, you can add as many roles as you deem necessary without any hierarchy.
Role
Identifying the individual or legal entity by their role in the music ecosystem
This identification is essential for clearly defining what the person or company does in the music industry and will allow for modifications to the associated information in MetaMusic.
Entry Rule
It’s possible to take on a role even if it’s not your profession.
For example, you co-produced an album, but you’re not a professional producer. You need to create a studio technician role in MetaMusic to be identified as a co-producer.
Artist Name
The artist’s pseudonym used for his career.
Entry Rule
Write the name as it might appear on the album cover.
Individual Alias
Aliases are names that you may have used or under which you have been identified periodically or exceptionally.
Entry Rule
Your list of aliases must include all possible variations under which your name may have appeared in the creation and publication of an artistic project.
This includes:
- Variations with initials in the case of a compound name
- Misspellings
- All pseudonyms used for side projects
- It must not include your artist names or pen names
City of Residence
Permanent residence of the individual or registered office of the legal entity.
Entry Rule
Write the first letter of the country, then click on the correct option to select it.
Quebecer Status
The attribution of Quebec origin status to individuals as creators (artists or artist collectives) is qualitative and based on a set of fundamental criteria. To be considered Quebecer, an individual must meet at least one of the following seven criteria:
- Their place of birth
- The place where they grew up
- The place where they began their career
- Their place of residence
- Whether their artistic practice has developed specifically and/or primarily in Quebec
- Whether, in general, the creator identifies as Quebecer in media contexts, marketing, etc.
- Whether the creator is considered Quebecer by the media and by explicit and credible sources
ISNI (International Standard Name Identifier)
The ISNI (International Standard Name Identifier) is an international standard established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It is a unique public identifier assigned to contributors of creative works, whether they are lead artists, composers, sound engineers, or companies. The goal of the ISNI is to become a standard identifier that facilitates connections between different databases, such as Wikidata, VIAF, and MusicBrainz. The ISNI database is freely accessible and can be enriched by users. Ultimately, the ISNI constitutes a permanent link (URI) that connects an identity across the Web of Data.
Entry Rule
Once you have added and filled in all your roles, you can search for your ISNI in your stakeholder profile or in your verified company. If you find one or more ISNIs, you can associate them with one of your roles. If only one ISNI appears and you recognize it as yours, choose the “Global Stakeholder” option.
IPN (International Performer Number)
The International Performer Number (IPN) is a unique identifier assigned to performing artists by SCAPR and registered in the International Performer Database (IPD). Primarily intended for the internal administrative operations of artists’ neighboring rights management societies, its use could expand further in the future.
Entry Rule
Your IPN will be required when documenting your role as an interpreter.
If you do not know your IPN and are an Artisti member, add your Artisti membership number in the Company section. Your IPN will be added automatically.
IPI (Interested Party Information)
What is it?
The Interested Parties Information (IPI) is a unique identifier for authors, composers, publishers, arrangers, adaptors, and translators. It is managed by CISAC, but its administration is outsourced to the Swiss collective SUISA. It is useful for copyright management societies to ensure proper distribution of royalties among rights holders.
Who is it for?
The IPI is an identifier for authors, composers, and publishers.
How do I get it?
To obtain your IPI, you must register as a member with a copyright management society such as SOCAN. An IPI will be assigned to you automatically. If you are already a member, you can retrieve your IPI on the SOCAN portal homepage: http://www.socan.com/fr/
In MetaMusic
For all authors, composers, songwriters, and publishers, MetaMusic requires you to enter your IPI.
In your profile, select and edit the relevant role(s), then add your IPI at the top of the page in the “Role Details” section.
If your IPI is validated by the system, you will be able to import your SOCAN catalog into MetaMusic.
Import all the works you have registered with SOCAN for the past three weeks or more.
Good to Know
Your IPI will be required when you document your role as a songwriter or publishing company.
You can find your IPI on the homepage of your SOCAN portal.
Your IPI will allow you to later import your SOCAN catalogue into MetaMusic.
Entry Rule
The IPI (Individual Performance Identifier) consists of 8 to 11 digits. Enter it in your creator role as it appears on the SOCAN website or another collecting society’s website, regardless of the number of characters. The system will standardize it upon saving by adding zeros at the beginning.
Date of Birth
A person’s date of birth or a group’s or company’s founding date. It is used to differentiate between two people, groups, or companies with the same name.
Entry Rule
Only the year is mandatory
Date of Death
The date of death of an individual or the dissolution of a group or company. This date can impact a person’s copyright and provides information about a company over time.
Entry Rule
Only the year is mandatory
Member of a Group
A band member is an individual who is part of a musical or artistic ensemble. Being a band member involves close collaboration in the creation and performance of music, sharing artistic responsibility and often the profits. Members contribute to the collective sonic identity and must often coordinate their creative efforts.
Entry Rule
Search for the member in the search bar. If they are not found, click on the “Send an invitation” dropdown menu. Make sure you enter the correct email address without any typos.
Group
Name of the group of members who are known artistically or commercially and form a distinct entity.
Entry Rule
Allows you to group several individuals under the group name. Enter the group name as it appears on the album cover or their official website. You are free to use this field without any restrictions regarding the number of characters or style.
Departure Date of a Group
Year of departure of a member of a musical group. A member’s departure places them among the group’s former members. This does not affect their acquired rights to the songs they contributed to, but it releases them from any future obligations to the group.
Entry Rule
MetaMusic allows you to record a group’s departure date by filling in the day, month, and year. We suggest filling in both the month and year, however, only the year is mandatory.
Joining Date of a Group
An individual’s joining date in a group or musical ensemble is the date from which they officially joined the group. This excludes musicians who were present only occasionally at live performances or who were only present during studio recordings. These are referred to as “guest musicians.”
Entry Rule
MetaMusic allows you to record your group joining date by filling in the day, month, and year. We suggest filling in both the month and year, however, only the year is mandatory.
Questions fréquentes
Retrouvez ici toutes les questions.
What is MetaMusic?
Réponse
MetaMusic’s mandate is to equip the music industry with the tools and best practices to:
- Regain control of its music metadata
- Simplify its management
- Improve the discoverability of local music content.
In concrete terms, MetaMusic is a data entry and distribution platform that allows the entire music industry to:
- Document new releases
- Submit mandatory declarations and filings
- Export and reference metadata wherever necessary
MetaMusic is completely free and open to all, offering numerous advantages to its users, such as:
- Reduced manual data entry in the distribution process
- Reduced risk of errors associated with manual data entry
- Faster processing times with collecting societies
- Improved search engine ranking, enhancing discoverability
- Greater efficiency in marketing and distribution processes
- Reliable royalty payments
- Better recognition of all contributors
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I didn’t receive the email from MetaMusic to activate my account.
Réponse
It’s possible that your account activation email ended up in your junk mail or spam folder. If so, you can verify the sender (MetaMusic) and click on the account activation link.
If the activation email is not in your spam folder, please let us know by writing to us at: info@metamusique.ca
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I can’t edit the sound recording section.
Réponse
To edit the “Sound Recording” section, you must have a Maker or Performer role. If you co-produced the recording with a record label, you can add an individual Maker role in the “Participants and Roles” section of “My Profile” and add or edit a sound recording.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I am unable to edit the “Releases” section.
Réponse
To edit the “Releases” section, you must have the role of “Record Label” or “Distributor”. Note that the roles of “Representative of a Sound Recording Production Company” and “Record Label” are two separate roles.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I joined MetaMusic by invitation, what should I do now?
Réponse
You have been invited to join MetaMusic by email. This email contains a clickable link that will take you to the platform’s registration page. During the brief registration process, you will be asked to select your primary role. However, you will be able to add as many roles as needed once registered.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
How do I obtain an ISNI number?
Réponse
The ISNI (International Standard Name Identifier) is a unique identifier designed to avoid confusion due to homonyms. You can search for your ISNI number in MetaMusic. If no results are found, MetaMusic will assign you one during 2024.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I am a songwriter and/or composer. Which section(s) do I have access to?
Réponse
As a songwriter, you have access to the “Works” section. You can therefore create works, edit them, and have your work added to works by other MetaMusic members. You also have access to import your SOCAN catalogue.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I am a publisher. Which section(s) do I have access to?
Réponse
As a publisher, you have access to the “Works” section. You can therefore create works, edit them, and have your work added to works by other MetaMusic members. You also have access to import your SOCAN catalogue.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I represent a recording studio. Which section(s) do I have access to?
Réponse
By adding the role of “Recording Studio Representative,” you can create or edit sound recordings. In the corresponding role settings, you can add Panorama or your collective management organization and link your membership number to it.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I am a representative for a music production company. Which section(s) do I have access to?
Réponse
As a “Representative of a music production company,” you have access to the “Sound Recordings” section. You can therefore create Sound Recordings, edit them, and be added to recordings by other MetaMusic members.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I am a representative for a record label. Which section(s) do I have access to?
Réponse
As a representative of a Record Label, you have access to the Releases. You can create or edit them.
Please note: we distinguish between record companies and producers of sound recordings. If you are also a master tape producer, you must create the corresponding company role.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
How do I find my SOCAN number?
Réponse
Your SOCAN number is accessible from your member profile on the official SOCAN website. If you can no longer find your SOCAN number, you can refer to the external resources detailed below to retrieve it.
SOCAN website: https://www.socan.com/
SOCAN Member Services: 866-317-6226 or members@socan.com
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I composed my work over several years. How can we define the year of creation of the work?
Réponse
If you wrote or composed a work over several years, you must enter the year in which you completed the work or the year closest to that of the sound recording.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I’m not sure if I have an ISWC. How can I verify this information or obtain a copy?
Réponse
A unique ISWC number for your work will be sent to you by SOCAN after you submit your declaration. To retrieve it, log in to your member area on the official SOCAN website: https://www.socan.com/
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
My work is a popular, orchestrated work. Is it considered to be a classic work?
Réponse
No. If you plan to record an orchestral version of your work, including choirs and symphony orchestras, it remains a popular work. A work considered classical is defined by an opus number, an act number, and a part. A musical work is defined primarily by its compositional structure, not by its sound.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I have several publishers and sub-publishers. Should I mention them all?
Réponse
Yes. However, only publishers and sub-publishers identified in the country of origin of the work should be listed. This does not include sub-publishers whose mandate is limited to certain foreign markets.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
Do I need to enter the “splits” of my work in MetaMusic?
Réponse
No. The distribution or sharing of rights (splits) between authors and rights holders is managed by your publisher and governed by rates established in Canada by SOCAN.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
Do I need to write the lyrics for the backing vocals?
Réponse
Yes, if the backing vocals are essential to understanding the song.
No, if the backing vocals are a repetition of the main vocals.
Although they are sung parts, they will be considered musical accompaniment in the same way as an instrument.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
The lyrics are sung in an invented language. Which language should I select?
Réponse
If the “language” used is not identified as a recognized language in its entirety, but contains some words borrowed from languages identified on the platform, these words may be recorded in proportion to the languages recognized in the work.
Example: The work contains 100 words. 90 words are from a non-existent language. 6 words are identified as French, 4 as English. 60% of the lyrics in the work will be recorded as being in French and 40% in English.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
How can I easily calculate the percentage of a language in my lyrics?
Réponse
We recommend using a word processing tool that counts words. Divide the number of words in a language by the total number of words. Multiply the result by 100, and you will get the percentage of that language in a title.
Example: (number of words in a language x ÷ total number of words) x 100 = Total % of the spoken language.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I don’t know if I have an alias?
Réponse
You can list all the names you have been known by during your artistic career. Even if it’s a stage name for a side project that no longer exists, you can list it here.
If your name is frequently misspelled or you accept multiple spellings, these are aliases.
Note: Please do not include the names of groups you are or have been a part of.
Businesses can also have aliases. All variations of your business name, including translations, must be listed.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I have submitted grant applications that are still being processed. Should I add them?
Réponse
No. Only accepted grant applications should be listed in the “Funding Organization” section. If your grant or funding applications are still pending, please do not list them. If they are accepted, you can add them later.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I can’t find a funding organization.
Réponse
All Canadian and Quebec public funding organizations for the creation or marketing of a release have been added to the platform.
If you cannot find an organization by entering its acronym, try writing its full name.
If you still cannot find the organization, please email us at info@metamusique.ca
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
How do I obtain ISRC codes?
Réponse
You can obtain your ISRC codes by applying online on the Panorama website:
https://panorama.mu/en/get-an-isrc
If you have a distributor, they can also provide them to you.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I don’t know if my recording can be considered a medley?
Réponse
A medley is a musical piece made up entirely and without interruption of excerpts from other pieces. If you have incorporated a short 2- or 3-second excerpt from a third-party master track into your composition, this is not considered a medley. It is then referred to as “sampling.”
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I can’t find my group. How do I create or add it?
Réponse
If you can’t find your group, you can add one by following these steps:
→ Click on your name in the top right corner, then on “My Profile”
→ Individuals and Roles
→ At the bottom of the page, click on the “Artist and Performer” section
→ “Group” section
→ Click on “Add” and then type the name of your group
→ Then click on “No results found”
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
In the title’s genre, do I need to complete all the genre sources?
Réponse
It’s not mandatory, but we highly recommend it. Properly completing the source and tag fields is a key step in sound recording process. Music genres and tags are metadata that feed into recommendation tools and, consequently, influence how your work is indexed online.
Note: You don’t have to fill in the music genres for each track. You can import genres and subgenres previously entered in another audio recording.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
My audio recording is interpreted in French. Should I enter my tags in English or French?
Réponse
Both. Just because your work is performed in French doesn’t mean the tags attached to it have to be only in French. We strongly encourage you to add tags in both French and English. Similarly, if your work borrows a musical style from a linguistic culture that speaks a language other than French or English, we encourage you to conduct your research in that third language.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
What is a first maker?
Réponse
The first maker is the original maker of a release. This means they invested the necessary resources to ensure the recording and marketing of the work, sometimes with the help of a distributor. If your contract with your maker is a licensing agreement, they will not be considered the first maker because they are solely responsible for marketing and promotional efforts.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I made all my sound recordings at home. Do I still need to fill out this section?
Réponse
Yes. You will be asked to identify the studio where you recorded. If it is a private, individual studio, you will be given the option to invite a studio to MetaMusic. By clicking on the “Unlisted” and “Private Name” options, your studio will be added but will not be accessible to other members on the platform. If you want other members to be able to select it, do not select the second option.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I did some or all of the mixing sessions at home. Should I mention that?
Réponse
Just like with a sound recording, you can invite a mixing studio that isn’t yet listed. By clicking the “Unlisted” and “Private Name” options, your studio will be added but not accessible to other members on the platform. If you want other members to be able to select it, do not select the second option.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
The producer participated in the arrangements in collaboration with the band members. Should I mention that?
Réponse
Yes. They can be credited in the same way that you can credit a band member as a co-producer if that was their role during the recording. If band members participated in the arrangements, they can all be credited as such.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
What is the difference between an alias, a pen name, and a stage name?
Réponse
Your stage name (or artist name) is the name you wish to be identified by in publications.
A pen name applies only to authors who have a name under which they write.
Aliases are alterations of your artist name or names you use or have used occasionally.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I have an old stage name that I no longer use. Should I include it in my aliases or create a separate role for myself as a performing artist?
Réponse
If your former name has been documented or credited in publications, you can create a new individual profile and add a “Performing Artist” role to it.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I have completed and saved my release. Do collective management societies automatically receive my submission?
Réponse
No. Once your release is complete, you can submit your Artisti and Panorama submissions directly from the platform via the “Submissions” section. Within the “Submissions” section, the “Exports” section allows you to export various formats in .xls format, such as the full export and the label copy.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
How do I know if I already have an ISNI?
Réponse
As an ISNI-registered agency, MetaMusic allows you to search for and identify your ISNIs directly in your account using the “Search my ISNI” button found in your profile and roles.
This search can also be performed for companies.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
I have multiple ISNIs. Which should I delete? Which should I keep? How do I do so?
Réponse
When you perform an ISNI search, several profiles may appear. Each line corresponds to an ISNI code. To the right of each line, a black arrow points downwards. This is a drop-down list.
At the bottom of the page, the works associated with the ISNI in question will be detailed. If you recognize works on which you were only the Performer, you can identify yourself as such in the “Is this you?” column. If you recognize works on which you were only the Songwriter, you can identify yourself as such in the “Is this you?” column.
If you recognize works on which you were both the Performer and Songwriter, either simultaneously or alternately, you can identify yourself as a “Global Participant” in the “Is this you?” column.
If only one result matches, identify yourself as a “Global Participant” in the “Is this you?” column.
Le lexique en rapport avec ce sujet
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