Ranking updated
How to find the name of a song
A song plays in a café, in a video or only in your head, and you cannot let it go. Between recognition apps, humming search and lyric search, you can often name a track quickly if you act while it is still playing.
A step-by-step approach, then song identification apps.
Act while it is playing
Open a song recognition app or the built-in shortcut on your phone and hold it towards the sound. Fewer voices and less noise give a better match.
Hum it if it is gone
Some search and music apps can match a melody you hum, whistle or sing. A few seconds of the catchiest part is often enough.
Search the words you remember
Type any remembered lyric into a search engine in quotes. For videos, check the description, comments or credits, where the track is often named.
Keep what you find
Save identified songs straight to a playlist so they do not vanish again. For more listening, compare music apps or see how to get into podcasts; compare apps in song identification apps.
| Situation | What you do | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Playing now | recognition app or phone shortcut | fastest match |
| Only in your head | hum or sing the melody | no recording needed |
| You remember words | search the lyric in quotes | exact phrase match |
| From a video | check description or credits | often listed |
| Found it | save to a playlist | never lose it again |
Frequently asked questions
How do I find a song that is playing?
Use a song recognition app or your phone’s built-in shortcut while the music plays.
Can I find a song by humming?
Yes. Some search and music apps can match a hummed or sung melody.
What if I only remember a few words?
Search the lyric in quotes; exact phrases usually find the song quickly.