Cannot import files to Music

Question

Level 1

10 points

Cannot import files to Music

Ventura 13.1.1

Music 1.3.6.14

I'm having no luck whatsoever importing audio files of any kind. I started with an .m4a, and I've tried converting to AAC, WAV, .mp3 -- I've tried dragging the file into Music, I've tried Importing, and I've tried "open with" to try to get Music to import the file, but nothing works. Sometimes the app "flickers" a bit when I try, but sometimes not even that, just literally nothing happens. It doesn't play, it doesn't appear in my "recently added," it's just not happening. Meanwhile, I can open the files just fine in Books and QuickTime. It's just Music, the app I need it to be in, where they it doesn't work.

Any thoughts?

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 13.7

Posted on Jun 29, 2025 09:57 AM

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Answer 1

brbo

Level 8

38,137 points

Jun 30, 2025 04:34 PM in response to DeeLJay

Re: Cannot import files to Music

I notice you are using Ventura 13.1.1.

There have been very many updates (over twenty!) to Ventura since then

Seems you may need to update yout MacOS Ventura to the newest available version:

Eg: What's new in the updates for macOS Ventura - Apple Support says: macOS Ventura 13.7.6

and "This update provides important security fixes and is recommended for all users."

Please remember: If you choose to update it is always wise to back-up your Mac first:

By clicking the black Apple on the left in Mac's top menu bar:

Go to System Settings > General > Software Updates

If needed::Choose import settings in Music on Mac - Apple Support

Eg: says: When you import songs from CDs into Music, Music converts them into AAC format by default. You can choose a different encoding option, including AIFF, Apple Lossless, MP3 and WAV.

Music also supports HE-AAC files (also called MPEG-4 AAC files).

NB: Much more info iand detail n first linked article above.

Change import settings in Music on Mac - Apple Support

Eg: says: In the Music app on your Mac, view and change details for import settings when you insert a CD.

To change these settings, choose Music > Settings, click Files, then click Import Settings.

(More info in above article.)

Useful Resource for MacOS Ventura: Apple Music User Guide for Mac - Apple Support

Also: Apple's Music Support website (info. / support / contact options etc.): Music - Official Apple Support

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