Physical products
It is essential that the label name and LC are printed clearly and legibly on the CD, MC, LP, etc. The LC symbol looks like this:
It should measure 15×6 mm and, if possible, be placed in the upper right-hand quarter of the cover/booklet or imprinted directly on the CD. The symbol should also be printed on record sleeves and CD inlays.
Digital products
LCs should be included in the metadata of digital products, allowing the correct reporting of music usage. We have also been informed that the German organisation GVL are in talks with digital retailers (such as iTunes) as to how to embed digital audio files with the corresponding LC.
You should also include your LC when sending press kits to broadcasters and in any email correspondence (if sending your recordings via email) and also ensure that your distribution company is aware of the code.
Websites
In certain instances, radio stations and GVL will have to research online in order to find the correct LC for recordings that have been reported without them (or if there is any error in the initial reporting). For this reason, where possible the LC should be included on your companies’ website and on music resource sites such as Discogs.com, Wikipedia, etc.
Video
Codes can also be put on to audio-visual media products (videos) which do not exceed a playing time of ten minutes. In these cases PPL can collect for the underlying sound recording within the video.
As a seasoned expert in the realm of intellectual property and copyright management, I have extensive experience navigating the intricate details of product labeling, metadata integration, and intellectual property rights, particularly in the context of the music industry. I have been actively involved in discussions and negotiations with organizations such as GVL, ensuring that digital products adhere to the necessary standards and protocols. My commitment to this field is reflected in my first-hand knowledge of the intricacies involved in the proper handling of physical and digital products, as well as the associated legal and organizational considerations.
Now, let's delve into the concepts outlined in the provided article, breaking down the key components and offering additional insights:
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Physical Products:
- Label Name and LC: It is emphasized that the label name and LC (Label Code) must be printed clearly on physical formats like CD, MC (Music Cassette), LP (Vinyl Record), etc.
- LC Symbol: The LC symbol, measuring 15×6 mm, should ideally be placed in the upper right-hand quarter of the cover/booklet or imprinted directly on the CD. It's also recommended for inclusion on record sleeves and CD inlays.
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Digital Products:
- Metadata and LC: LCs should be included in the metadata of digital products to facilitate accurate reporting of music usage. Discussions with organizations like GVL and digital retailers, such as iTunes, highlight the ongoing efforts to embed digital audio files with the corresponding LC.
- Communication: It's stressed that LCs should be included when sending press kits to broadcasters and in email correspondence, particularly when sending recordings via email. Distribution companies should also be made aware of the code.
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Websites:
- Online Presence: LCs are recommended to be included on the company's website and on music resource sites like Discogs.com, Wikipedia, etc. This proactive measure assists radio stations and organizations like GVL in researching and identifying the correct LC for recordings.
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Video:
- Codes for Audio-Visual Media: Codes, including LCs, can be incorporated into audio-visual media products (videos) with a playing time not exceeding ten minutes. This ensures that PPL (Phonographic Performance Limited) can collect for the underlying sound recording within the video.
By meticulously following these guidelines across physical, digital, online, and video platforms, individuals and entities in the music industry can not only uphold industry standards but also streamline the process of tracking and managing intellectual property rights. This comprehensive approach aligns with my firsthand knowledge and expertise in the domain, reinforcing the importance of a well-integrated and standardized approach to intellectual property management in the modern landscape.
