For music enthusiasts, lyrics aren’t just words—they’re the heartbeat of a song. Whether you’re belting out tunes in the shower, studying poetic metaphors, or hosting a karaoke night, having lyrics embedded in Apple Music (formerly iTunes on macOS) can elevate your experience.
But here’s the reality: Apple Music doesn’t automatically add lyrics for all songs, especially local files or indie tracks. The good news? Manually adding lyrics is simple, and in this 2026 guide, we’ll show you how to add lyrics in Apple Music on Mac, Windows, and iPhone, plus sync them seamlessly.
Let’s get started!
Why Add Lyrics to Apple Music in 2026?
In an era of streaming dominance, here’s why embedded lyrics still matter:
✔ No more app-switching—view lyrics directly in Apple Music.
✔ Offline access—lyrics stay even without Wi-Fi (perfect for flights or rural areas).
✔ Deepen your connection—analyze lyrics, learn languages, or perfect your singing.
✔ Organized library—keep all metadata (including lyrics) in one place.
How to Add Lyrics to Songs in Apple Music on Mac (2026 Update)
Note: As of macOS Sonoma (2023) and later, iTunes is replaced by the standalone Apple Music app. The process below applies to macOS Ventura/Sonoma/2026 updates.
Step 1: Find Accurate Lyrics
Before adding lyrics, source them from:
- Lyrics websites: Genius, AZLyrics, or Musixmatch (verify for accuracy!).
- Manual transcription: Type them out if you’re a purist (or the song is obscure).
- Browser extensions: Use tools like Lyrics Finder to scrape text automatically.
Pro Tip: Avoid copy-pasting from unofficial sources—errors are common!
Step 2: Open Apple Music & Select Your Song
- Launch the Apple Music app on your Mac.
- Navigate to your library and find the song you want to edit.
Step 3: Access the “Song Info” Window
- Right-click (or Control-click) the song.
- Select Get Info (or Song Info on newer macOS versions).
Step 4: Paste the Lyrics
- In the Info window, click the Lyrics tab.
- For unsynchronized lyrics (standard text):
- Paste the lyrics into the large text box.
- Uncheck “Synchronized Lyrics” (unless you’re adding timed lyrics, which requires specialized tools).
- Click OK to save.
Note: Synchronized lyrics (timed to the music) are rare for manual edits. Most users stick with unsynchronized text.
Step 5: Sync Lyrics to Your iPhone
- Connect your iPhone to your Mac via USB or Wi-Fi.
- Open Finder (macOS Monterey+) or Apple Devices (if using a 2026 macOS update).
- Select your iPhone → Go to the Music tab.
- Ensure “Sync Music” is enabled and select the song(s) with lyrics.
- Click Sync (or Apply).
Now, play the song on your iPhone in Apple Music and tap the lyrics icon (♪) to view them!
How to Add Lyrics in Apple Music on Windows (2026 Edition)
If you’re using Windows 11/12 with the Apple Music app (or legacy iTunes), follow these steps:
For Apple Music App (Newer Windows Versions)
- Right-click the song → Song Info.
- Go to the Lyrics tab → paste text → click OK.
- Sync via Apple Devices or iTunes for Windows (if still available).
For Legacy iTunes (If Applicable)
- Right-click the song → Get Info.
- Navigate to the Lyrics tab → paste lyrics → save.
- Sync your iPhone via iTunes as usual.
Warning: Apple is phasing out iTunes on Windows. Use the standalone Apple Music app if available.
Alternative Methods: Auto-Add Lyrics in 2026
Tired of manual edits? Try these tools:
1. TuneLyrics Pro (Mac/Windows)
- Fetches lyrics from Genius, Musixmatch, and LyricWiki.
- Batch-processes entire albums.
- Free tier available; Pro unlocks auto-sync.
2. iLyrics X (Mac)
- Drag-and-drop interface for quick edits.
- Works with Apple Music and local files.
3. Musixmatch App (Mobile)
- Not for desktop, but great for streaming lyrics on iPhone/Android.
- Floating lyrics widget syncs with Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
Caution: Third-party apps may violate Apple’s terms if they modify files improperly. Use trusted tools only.
Troubleshooting: Lyrics Not Showing Up?
If your lyrics vanish post-sync, try these fixes:
❌ Problem: Lyrics tab is missing.
✅ Solution: The song may be DRM-protected (e.g., Apple Music streaming). Download it as a purchased MP3 or use a local file.
❌ Problem: Lyrics appear on Mac but not iPhone.
✅ Solution: Re-sync your iPhone and check “Include Lyrics” in sync settings (if available).
❌ Problem: Lyrics are out of sync.
✅ Solution: Manual edits are rarely synchronized. Use tools like Lyrics Master (Mac) or find a pre-timed version online.
Final Thoughts: Is Adding Lyrics Worth It in 2026?
Absolutely. While Apple Music’s built-in lyrics cover many mainstream songs, manual edits ensure:
- Accuracy (no more “Wait, is that the right line?” moments).
- Support for indie artists (whose lyrics may not be in Apple’s database).
- Offline access (critical for travelers or low-signal areas).
So, fire up Apple Music, grab some lyrics, and give your library the upgrade it deserves! 🎶
Your Turn!
Have you added lyrics to Apple Music? What’s your go-to karaoke song? Share your tips (or requests for future guides) in the comments below!
P.S. If this 2026 update helped, share it with fellow music lovers—they’ll thank you! 🚀

