Skip to content
Step 1 of 10 in this module#171 of 1,000

1. Understanding UPCs: The Release Identifier

Part 2 • Technical Execution of the Waterfall Strategy (UPC/ISRC)

A UPC (Universal Product Code) is a unique barcode assigned to an entire release. Whether that release is a single track, an EP, or a full album, it gets one UPC. Think of the UPC as the identifier for the physical (or digital) "product" that is being sold or distributed. If you re-bundle tracks and release them as a new product (e.g., a 2-track EP that includes a previously released single), that new bundle requires a brand new UPC. This is a critical component of the Waterfall Strategy.

See a way to improve this point?

Community Driven

Help us keep this 1,000-point curriculum sharp for all creators. Suggest a wording tweak, report a changed tool, or share your thoughts.

Loading user progress & flight station...
In this module: Technical Execution of the Waterfall Strategy (UPC/ISRC)10 steps
  1. 1Understanding UPCs: The Release Identifier
  2. 2Understanding ISRCs: The Track Identifier
  3. 3The Technical Sequence: Release 1 (Single)
  4. 4The Technical Sequence: Release 2 (2-Track EP)
  5. 5The Technical Sequence: Subsequent Releases
  6. 6Why Using the Same ISRC is Non-Negotiable
  7. 7Communicating with Your Distributor
  8. 8Verifying ISRC Assignment in Spotify for Artists
  9. 9The Appearance on Spotify: "Appears On"
  10. 10Your Actionable ISRC/UPC Checklist