How to Add Custom Songs to Spotify (Step-by-Step Guide)

While Spotify boasts a library of over 100 million tracks, every music lover eventually runs into a missing piece: an obscure live bootleg, a localized indie mix, a mixtape downloaded from Bandcamp, or a self-recorded audio file.

Thankfully, Spotify includes a powerful, often underutilized feature called Local Files. This allows you to upload custom MP3s and audio tracks from your computer or phone directly into your Spotify client and sync them across all your devices.

Here is a complete, step-by-step guide on how to enable, import, and listen to custom songs on Spotify.

Supported File Formats

Before getting started, make sure your audio files are formatted correctly. Spotify currently supports:

• .mp3
• .m4p (unless it contains DRM protection)
• .mp4 (audio files only)

Note: Spotify does not support .wav, .flac, or .alac files directly on mobile devices, though desktop clients can sometimes play .flac files depending on operating system support. For the highest compatibility across all devices, convert your tracks to MP3 or M4A.

Step 1: Add Custom Songs on PC or Mac

To sync custom audio to your phone, you must first add the files using the Spotify desktop app.

1. Enable Local Files

1. Open the Spotify desktop app on your PC or Mac.
2. Click your profile picture in the top-right corner and select Settings.
3. Scroll down to the Local Files section.
4. Toggle on Show Local Files.

2. Add Your Music Folder

1. Under the Show songs from section, Spotify will automatically list default folders like Downloads or Music Library.
2. To add custom folders, click Add a source.
3. Choose the folder on your computer where your audio files are stored.
4. Make sure the toggle next to your newly added folder is switched ON.

3. Move Local Files to a Dedicated Playlist

1. In the Spotify desktop app, go to your library sidebar and click Your Library.
2. Select the Local Files folder that appears. You should now see all your custom tracks.
3. Crucial Step: Create a New Playlist (