Use the ASCAP or BMI Songview search tools first. Because these databases are now “reconciled,” a search on one usually shows you the data for both. If your song appears with a green checkmark, it means the data is verified and consistent across the major societies. Audiobulb uses these same databases to ensure your global metadata is accurate.
1. The “Big Two” (ASCAP & BMI)
Since 2021, ASCAP and BMI have integrated their data into Songview. This is your first stop.
- Where to go: ASCAP Repertory Search or BMI Songview Search.
- How to search: You can search by Song Title, Writer Name, or Performer.
- What to look for: Look for the ISWC (International Standard Musical Work Code). If a song has an ISWC, it is officially registered in the global system.
2. The Specialized & International PROs
If your song isn’t in Songview, check these individual databases:
- SESAC: SESAC Repertory (Publicly searchable by title/writer).
- GMR (Global Music Rights): GMR Catalog (Check here if you or a co-writer is with GMR).
- SOCAN (Canada): SOCAN Public Repertoire.
- PRS for Music (UK): PRS Search Works (Requires a free login for full details).
3. The Global “Gold Standard”: ISWC Network
If you want to know if your song is registered internationally (for plays in Europe, Asia, etc.), use the ISWC Network Search.
- This database is managed by CISAC (the global body for PROs).
- If your song appears here, it means the “DNA” of your song is known to almost every collection society on earth.
4. Checklist: What Should You See?
When you find your song, verify these four pieces of data. If any are wrong, your royalties will be delayed:
- IPI Number: Ensure your unique 9-digit Interested Party Information number is attached to your name.
- Writer Splits: Do the percentages (e.g., 50/50) match what you agreed upon in your split sheet?
- Publisher: If you are with Audiobulb, we should be listed as the Administrator.
- Work ID: Each PRO assigns its own internal ID; make sure yours is active.
5. “I can’t find my song. What now?”
If your song is missing, it usually means one of three things:
- The 48-Hour Lag: If you just registered it today, it can take 2–5 business days to appear in public searches.
- The Indexing Gap: Your PRO might have the song in your private member dashboard, but hasn’t pushed it to the public database yet.
- Registration Error: If it’s been more than two weeks, the registration likely failed due to a metadata conflict (e.g., a co-writer listed a different title).
How Audiobulb Protects Your Registration
Manual checking is exhausting. Audiobulb acts as your Metadata Auditor.
- We monitor these databases for you.
- If we find a conflict (like another writer claiming your shares), we notify you and provide the legal documentation to fix it.
- We ensure your ISRC (recording code) and ISWC (song code) are “linked”—this is the only way to ensure you get paid both mechanical and performance royalties for the same stream.
Your Next Step: Have you found your song but noticed a typo or a missing writer? Join Audiobulb for $19.99/year, and we will clean up your global metadata and file the necessary amendments to secure your back royalties.