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Hi all,

For those who are BMI songwriters (may apply to ASCAP as well), each of us has a unique IP#, which is a unique international identifier number. My main question is, should this number be included in a metatag on a song file, or is that posing a security risk? I was just wondering if this number helps to be included in the metadata so a music supervisor doesn't have to look it up or spend time finding the exact songwriter ID.

Thanks,

-Jeff

Hi Jeff
You mean IPI number and every PRO (ASCAP, BMI, SESACE, PRS, APRA, etc.) assigns you one. I don't think there is any risk in including this in your metadata since the info is available by public search anyway. That being said, I personally have never included it in music file metadata since if a library wanted to sign your song, they would ask for the info. It wouldn't cause any harm to put your PRO affiliation in the metadata but your actual IPI# is probably not needed.

On mp3 files, the most critical info is your contact info: Name, phone number, email address. Genres and mood descriptors helpful as well.

Best,
Casey

Thanks, Casey.

After seeing Frank Palazollo go through his metatagging exercise at the Road Rally, just was wondering if a music supervisor like him would benefit from knowing the identity to take out further guesswork. But if it's not used commonly in metadata, then no worries. Thanks for your advice!

-Jeff