Catalog Migration: How to Switch Distributors Without Losing Data
Switching music distributors can feel like a daunting task. The fear of losing streams, playlist placements, or even a complete takedown is real. But don't worry: a smooth catalog migration is possible. With the right strategy and partner, you can retain all your data and identifiers.
Why Consider a Catalog Migration in the First Place?
Perhaps your current distributor's terms no longer meet your needs. High subscription fees, opaque payouts, or lack of support can be reasons. Maybe you're looking for a partner that offers more control and better terms, like OGRECORDS™'s 10% revenue share model with no hidden costs. A migration can open up new opportunities and advance your artist career.
It's about finding a distributor that supports your vision and provides you with the tools to succeed. A non-exclusive contract and 100% ownership of your masters are crucial for your artistic freedom. Find out more at /pricing and /distribution.
The Key: ISRC and Matching
The most critical step in any catalog migration is the correct use of your existing ISRCs. The ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is the unique fingerprint of every single track. When re-uploading your music with a different distributor, you must use the exact same ISRCs already registered with your old distributor. While OGRECORDS™ automatically assigns ISRCs, it's crucial to use your existing codes for a migration. This ensures that all streaming data, playlists, and statistics are correctly attributed and not lost. You can usually find your ISRCs in your old distributor's analytics or on your license documents.
By 'matching' the ISRCs, DSPs (digital streaming platforms) recognize the new uploads as identical to the old ones. This way, listener numbers, playlist placements, and the entire history are preserved. This is the core of a successful migration without downtime.
The Process: Step-by-Step to Your New Distributor
First, upload your entire catalog with existing ISRCs to your new distributor. Make sure all metadata – title, artist, album title, cover art – matches exactly. This is essential for seamless matching at the DSPs. OGRECORDS™ offers free catalog migration to simplify this process.
Once your catalog is live with OGRECORDS™ and DSPs have recognized the new versions, you can request a takedown from your old distributor. It's important to do this only after the new versions are stable on all platforms. This prevents any gap in the availability of your music. At OGRECORDS™, there are no penalty fees for a takedown, giving you maximum flexibility.
OGRECORDS™: Your Partner for a Smooth Transition
OGRECORDS™ is designed to make your switch as easy as possible. We offer not only free catalog migration but also full transparency and control. With our 10% revenue share model, you only pay when you earn – no subscription fees or per-release costs. You retain 100% ownership of your masters and can cancel anytime without a lock-in contract.
Additionally, you benefit from features like unlimited royalty splits, daily analytics, pre-save links, and reach to 38+ DSPs in 240+ territories. Your catalog is in good hands with us. Find more details at /distribution and /royalty-splits.
Ready to switch? Migrate your catalog to OGRECORDS™ today and maintain control over your music.