The following is equally valid for root works and adaptations.
In authoritative order
- Performing Rights Organization: BMI, SACEM, GEMA, SGAE, etc...
- To find out the credits split (music vs lyrics), use GEMA or SACEM. ISWC is unreliable for this specific matter.
- Specific instructions with respect to SGAE
- Specific instructions with respect to SESAC
- If the PRO databases conflict, follow the PRO database the composers/authors are affiliated with.
Example: Walking on the Chinese Wall . ASCAP credits Billie Hughes and Roxanne Seeman vs. GEMA credits Billie Hughes, Roxanne Seeman and Marcy Levy. We follow ASCAP as that's where Hughes & Seeman are affiliated.
- Finding out the PRO affiliation:
- Some PROs simply mention it, such as ASCAP:
- Else choose the domestic PRO over the non-domestic one (from the artist point of view)
- 1 PRO as a source for the credits is sufficient
- If you're unable to find the work in any PRO database, mention in the editor notes which PRO databases you checked.
- Library of Congress Catalog of Copyright Entries
- Source for credits and copyright dates for mostly US works, but not exclusively.
- To find a work, perform a Google search "WorkTitle Catalog of Copyright Entries".
- Physical media: Liner notes, disc labels, back covers, etc...
- Have often proven to be inaccurate or incomplete compared to PROs.
- If different from the PRO entry, indicate in the editor notes.
- Reference websites: Ultratop
- Direct communication with the artist
- Indexing websites: Discogs (if not backed up with a visual), Musicbrainz, Cover.info
- Can create source feedback loops if not managed carefully.
Sources you should not trust with respect to credits:
- Allmusic
- Discogs, if not backed up by visuals
When the history of the work doesn't correspond with the credits in the PRO databases
- Set the credits as in the PRO database
- Explain in the comment box what the story behind the credits, e.g.: Who is supposedly the "real" composer or author.