What is RiSA?
The Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) is the official Collective Management Organization (CMO) responsible for the South African recording industry. RiSA primarily manages the rights and interests of record companies and music distributors, and it oversees several key functions related to music recordings, including:
Issuing ISRC codes (International Standard Recording Codes)
Certifying gold, platinum, and multi-platinum music sales
Administering Needletime Rights (via SAMPRA)
Licensing digital music platforms
Hosting the South African Music Awards (SAMAs)
While SAMRO focuses on songwriters and composers, RiSA serves the rights of performers and producers of sound recordings.
What Does RiSA Do?
1. Represents Recording Industry Rights
RiSA protects and administers the rights of music producers (record labels, artists who own their masters, etc.) concerning sound recordings.
2. Registers and Issues ISRC Codes
The ISRC is a unique identifier for each sound recording, essential for tracking and reporting digital and broadcast usage.
3. Awards Certifications
RiSA monitors music sales and awards Gold, Platinum, and Multi-Platinum certifications in South Africa.
4. Promotes Industry Standards
Through events like the SAMAs, RiSA promotes artistic excellence and professionalism in the music business.
Who Should Register with RiSA?
If you are a:
Record label
Independent artist/producer who owns their masters
Music distributor
Company involved in recording or distributing music
…you should register with RiSA to protect your sound recordings and qualify for certifications and licensing.
Benefits of Registering with RiSA
1. Ownership Recognition
Ensure your recordings are properly registered and recognized across platforms.
2. Get ISRC Codes
Each track you release needs a unique ISRC code to identify it globally on streaming platforms, radio, and other services.
3. Sales Certifications
Only RiSA members can apply for Gold, Platinum, or Diamond sales plaques.
4. SAMA Eligibility
To be eligible for the prestigious South African Music Awards, you must be a registered RiSA member.
5. Legal and Industry Support
RiSA helps members navigate copyright issues, digital rights, piracy protection, and more.
Registration Requirements
For Record Companies / Independent Artists:
Completed RiSA Membership Application Form
Available at www.risa.org.za
Company Registration Documents (CIPC certificate)
If you're a sole proprietor or independent artist, a personal ID may suffice.
Proof of Banking Details
Stamped bank statement or letter from your bank.
Tax Clearance Certificate or tax reference number.
Music Catalog or Discography
A list of recordings released under your label or name.
Payment of Annual Membership Fees
Fees vary depending on your company size and status (check the latest rates on RiSA's website or contact their office).
How to Register: Step-by-Step
Visit the RiSA website: https://www.risa.org.za
Go to the "Membership" section.
Download and complete the application form.
Prepare all required supporting documents.
Submit your application via:
Email: info@risa.org.za
Or deliver to: RiSA Offices, 20 De Korte Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
Once your application is processed, RiSA will confirm your membership and assign your Label Code and ISRC registrant code.
Additional Services Through RiSA
ISRC Registration
RiSA is the official agency for issuing ISRC codes in South Africa. These codes are essential for:
Digital distribution (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube)
Radio and TV broadcast tracking
Royalty collections
Each RiSA member is given a unique registrant code for generating ISRCs.
Sales Certification
RiSA certifies music sales based on industry benchmarks:
Gold: 10,000 units sold
Platinum: 20,000 units sold
Multi-Platinum/Diamond: Scaled accordingly
These numbers are verified through physical and digital sales reports.
SAMA Awards Participation
RiSA manages the South African Music Awards (SAMAs). Only registered members can submit entries for consideration.
Relationship with Other CMOs
SAMRO collects royalties for composers and songwriters.
SAMPRA (a RiSA affiliate) collects Needletime Royalties for record labels and featured performers.
CAPASSO manages mechanical rights (royalties from reproductions/downloads).
If you are an independent artist who writes, records, and releases your own music, you should register with SAMRO, CAPASSO, RiSA, and SAMPRA to cover all your rights.
RiSA is the backbone of South Africa’s recorded music industry. Whether you're an artist who owns your recordings or a full-fledged label, joining RiSA is essential for professional recognition, protection of your recordings, and access to industry platforms.
By becoming a member, you open doors to sales certification, legal protection, global music tracking, and award opportunities.
website: Learn more or apply at: https://www.risa.org.za
