How to release a chart eligable single?

TroyKeenan

Hey guys. I'm releasing my debut album Solarise this summer on iTunes and Amazon via Tunecore. I was wondering how to release a single in a way that it is eligable for the charts. Anyone have any info?

PaulBrewer

I believe having it on iTunes makes it eligible.

Can we have a listen anywhere?

PMI

downloadmusic.ie is another one recognised for charts...

Neurojazz

Just to point out the obvious - the tracks need a UPC code... most people get those sorted - i think that's the main link for tracking sales. *I think*

PaulBrewer

Neurojazz wrote: »

Just to point out the obvious - the tracks need a UPC code... most people get those sorted - i think that's the main link for tracking sales. *I think*

What's a UPC code then?

frobisher

Don't you mean IRSC codes?

fitz

IRSC is the code for identifying the track.
UPC codes are the barcodes used when you're selling the track/album.

SeanHurley

yeah there is a lot more than just sticking it on itunes or download music. You need an IRSC code for each song to record downloads as this is how the download is identified. Talk to MCPS about this it is basically registering the song with the equivalent of PRS in Ireland. A UPC code (Universal Product Code aka Barcode) is needed for physical sales as the chart is now recorded at point of sale i.e. when the cd is scanned in at the shop - it is all computerised.

Some words of warning from experience. Not all retailers are registered for the charts and independent retailers that are, are not always reckonable for charting purposes. A random sample of independent record stores is taken each week. So don't expect if you sell a load of cds in your local store that these will automatically count.

Another point to note is that even if you buy multiple copies in the one sale (i.e. on the one receipt from till), only one copy will be counted toward the chart so tell friends who wish to support you by buying a number of copie not to buy multiple copies in one go as they are wasting their money.

We got stung on our last single where we actually had enough physical sales to go top 20 but we only actually reached number 62. This was because the Music Box in Finglas who was registered with the charts was not counted in that week. Also of the sales in Tower Records a number where multiple sales.

Also iTunes takes 3 months to put your music up you have to use a company to do it we used TuneCore.

PaulBrewer

I spoke with a guy from RAAP recently and he reckoned most stations can't read IRSC codes ! So never get used.

Neurojazz

All my digital releases only have UPC codes, so maybe they have changed something in the system?

Neurojazz

itunes = 2 weeks if you know the right people

johnnylakes

Who are the right people Neuro??