Why Aren't My Lyrics Showing on Spotify, Apple Music or Instagram?
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AI Music Distribution Guide · Reviewed September 22, 2026
Direct answer: Lyrics use different delivery paths depending on the service. With DistroKid, plain lyrics and synced lyrics are not the same thing, and Spotify/Instagram do not use the exact same route as Apple Music.
Plain lyrics versus synced lyrics
DistroKid says plain lyrics are delivered to Apple Music, YouTube Music, LyricFind, Google Search and more. Synced lyrics are timed to the music.
Spotify and Instagram need a different path
DistroKid currently says synced lyrics for Spotify, Tidal, Instagram and Facebook are available through Lyric Blaster. You must first submit plain lyrics; after approval, you can submit synced lyrics.
Apple Music gives artists another option
Apple Music for Artists lets approved artists view, edit or submit lyrics from the artist-content area. That gives you a second place to check if Apple lyrics are missing or incorrect.
Troubleshooting checklist
- Confirm plain lyrics were submitted and approved.
- Confirm whether you need plain or synced lyrics.
- Confirm the target service is supported by that delivery method.
- Check spelling and line formatting.
- Allow time for lyric processing.
- Use Apple Music for Artists where applicable.
If AI assisted with the writing, keep your authorship and revision record separate from the lyric-display workflow. Store display does not decide copyright status.
Finish the job
Still need to edit, clean up, mix or master the audio? Use BandLab as the preparation step.
Prepare or polish the track with BandLab
Ready to distribute the finished release? Use my DistroKid referral link. The referral offer was verified as 7% off the first year when this series was prepared.
Get DistroKid — 7% off the first year
Affiliate disclosure: The BandLab and DistroKid links are referral/affiliate links. Jack Righteous may earn a commission or referral benefit if you qualify and sign up, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my lyrics on Apple but not Spotify?
Because DistroKid uses different delivery paths. Spotify synced lyrics currently use Lyric Blaster.
Can I send synced lyrics before plain lyrics are approved?
DistroKid says approved plain lyrics are the first step.
Can cover-song lyrics be delivered?
DistroKid says plain lyric delivery is not available for cover songs.
Primary sources
- DistroKid — plain vs synced lyrics
- DistroKid — synced lyrics
- Apple Music for Artists — artist content and lyrics
JR note: Store and distributor workflows can change. Verify current platform requirements before making a time-sensitive release change.
