Spotify allows users to enrich their listening experience by either uploading personal songs as local files or officially distributing original music through a third-party service like DistroKid or TuneCore for public streaming. Regular users can add local music files on desktop by enabling “Show Local Files” in the app’s settings and selecting folders, with access extending to mobile devices after syncing. On Android and iOS, users must activate the “Local audio files” option to view their uploaded tracks under Your Library. Additionally, building playlists with Spotify’s vast catalog is easy: simply tap the three dots next to a song and select “Add to Playlist,” helping users curate dynamic, shareable playlists that boost both personal engagement and discoverability.
Can You Add Your Own Songs to Spotify?
Yes, you can add your own songs to Spotify — but the process depends on whether you’re uploading as an artist or adding local files as a user.
For Artists:
To officially add your music to Spotify for public streaming:
- Use a digital music distributor like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby.
- Upload your tracks, artwork, and metadata.
- Choose Spotify as a distribution platform.
- Once approved, your songs will appear under your artist profile on Spotify.
Note: Spotify does not currently allow direct uploads from individual artists without a third-party distributor.
For Regular Users (Local Files):
Spotify allows you to upload and play music files stored on your device:
How it works:
- Go to Settings in the Spotify app (Desktop or Mobile).
- Enable Local Files under the Library section.
- Choose folders or apps to allow access.
- Your music will appear under the Local Files tab in Your Library.
This feature supports formats like .mp3, .mp4 (audio), and .m4a.
Tip: This method is ideal for music you’ve created, downloaded legally, or cannot find on Spotify.
How to Add Local Files to Spotify on Desktop
Adding your personal music files to Spotify on desktop is simple and only takes a few steps.
On Windows
To upload local files using a Windows computer:
- Open the Spotify app and click on your profile picture.
- Navigate to Settings.
- Scroll down to Library and switch on Show Local Files.
- Select the folders you want to give Spotify access to, or manually add a new source.
- Your local songs will now appear under the Local Files section in Your Library.
On Mac
To upload local files using a Mac:
- Launch the Spotify app and go to Settings.
- Enable Show Local Files.
- Choose the specific folders you want Spotify to pull music from.
- Your added songs will appear in the Local Files section.
How to Add Local Files to Spotify on Mobile
After uploading your local files through desktop, you can access them on your mobile device too — but with a few extra steps.
On Android
- Open the Spotify app and tap your profile picture.
- Go to Settings and privacy.
- Navigate to Apps and devices.
- Turn on Local audio files.
- Now, head to Your Library and find your uploaded music under Local Files.
On iOS
- Open Spotify on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap your profile picture and go to Settings and privacy.
- Enable Local audio files.
- Browse to Your Library and access your local tracks.
Remember, when it comes to Spotify, more plays, more power — uploading your own tracks can help you enjoy your favorite non-Spotify music while boosting your overall listening experience. Plus, every stream you generate on your playlists contributes to your personalized Spotify stats!
Supported Platforms and Transfer Methods
| Platform | Local File Upload | Access on Mobile | Special Notes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes | Requires enabling local files. |
| macOS | Yes | Yes | iCloud or USB transfer needed. |
| Android | No (directly) | Yes (after desktop upload) | Must enable Local Files. |
| iOS | No (directly) | Yes (after desktop upload) | Must enable Local Files. |
Bonus: Add Songs from Spotify’s Catalog to Playlists
In addition to adding local files, you can enhance your listening experience by building playlists with tracks from Spotify’s vast catalog.
Spotify offers a budget-friendly Spotify + Hulu bundle exclusively for verified U.S. students, providing Spotify Premium and Hulu (With Ads) for just ...
Spotify makes sharing playlists effortless and dynamic, letting users showcase their music taste, connect with friends, or promote curated collections...
Here’s how to add songs to a playlist:
- Search for the song you want to add.
- Tap the three dots (…) next to the song.
- Select Add to Playlist and choose your desired playlist.
Whether you’re curating a personal playlist or creating one to share with friends, consistency and quality can drive audience growth for playlists, making your collections more engaging and discoverable over time.
No comments to show.