How to Delete Music from iCloud Music Library

If you are a subscriber of Apple Music or iTunes Match, you can delete songs, albums, and playlists directly from your iCloud Music Library.

When you delete an item from iCloud Music Library, it will also be removed from all devices using the same Apple ID, including your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

Before You Delete Music from iCloud Music Library

Before deleting any music, make sure:

  • You are signed in to iTunes with your Apple ID
  • iCloud Music Library is turned on
  • You understand that deleted items cannot be recovered

Important notes:

  • Deleting music from iCloud Music Library removes it from all your devices.
  • If you delete music purchased from the iTunes Store, the item will be hidden, not permanently deleted.
  • You can unhide purchased music later and add it back to your library.

Delete Music from iCloud Music Library on iPhone or iPad

Follow these steps to delete music from iCloud Music Library using your mobile device:

  1. Open the Music app.
  2. Tap Library.
  3. Find the song, album, or playlist you want to delete.
  4. Press and hold (long press) the item.
  5. Choose one of the following options:

You may see two options:

If the item is NOT downloaded to your device

  • Tap Delete from Library
  • This will delete the item from iCloud Music Library and all devices.

If the item IS downloaded to your device

  • Tap Remove
  • Then choose:
    • Remove Downloads – removes the item only from this device
    • Delete from Library – deletes the item from iCloud Music Library and all devices

Delete Music from iCloud Music Library on Mac or PC

You can also delete music using iTunes on your computer.

Steps:

  1. Open iTunes on your Mac or PC.
  2. Click Library.
  3. Find the song, album, or playlist you want to delete.
  4. Right-click (or Control-click) the item.
  5. Choose one of the options below:

If the item is not downloaded to your computer

  • Select Delete from Library

If the item is downloaded

  • Select Remove Download to remove only from the computer
  • Select Delete from Library to remove from iCloud Music Library and all devices

Remove Download vs Delete from Library (Important Difference)

OptionWhat it does
Remove DownloadRemoves music from current device only
Delete from LibraryRemoves music from iCloud and all devices
Hide PurchaseHides purchased music from library

Summary

Deleting music from iCloud Music Library will remove the music from all your Apple devices using the same Apple ID. If you only want to free up space, choose Remove Download instead of Delete from Library.

Always make sure you understand the difference before deleting music from iCloud Music Library.

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