top of page
Search

How to add synchronized lyrics (karaoke) to Yandex Music, VK, and Apple Music

  • May 5
  • 3 min read
Караоке TTML в F-EX Records

In order for your song's lyrics to be displayed in karaoke mode (running in time with the music) on streaming platforms, you need to create a special synchronization file in LRC or TTML format. There are two ways to upload this file to the platforms: directly through your music distributor's account (for example, when shipping a release through F-EX Records) or through partner directories like Musixmatch. In this article, we will go through the process of preparing the lyrics, marking the timecodes, and delivering them to all popular storefronts.


1. What is the difference between regular and synchronized Karaoke lyrics?

Algorithms and moderators of the platforms strictly distinguish between two types of lyrics:

  • Plain Text (Regular Text): Just the lyrics of the song with a standard division into verses and choruses. It is static. The user needs to scroll through it manually.

  • Time-synced Lyrics (Synchronized / Karaoke): A text where each line is assigned an exact timecode (minutes, seconds, and milliseconds). This is the text that is highlighted in sync with the vocals.


2. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Create a TTML File

The TTML format is an international standard for synchronized lyrics. You can create it for free without any programming skills.

  1. Prepare a clean text: Remove all tags like [Chorus], [Verse 1], (x2). The text should contain only the words that are actually heard in the track.

  2. Choose a markup tool: Use free online generators (such as TTML on our website) or specialized applications.

  3. Synchronize: Upload your audio file to the generator. Press the space bar or a special button exactly when the corresponding line begins to play.

  4. Save the result: Download the finished file. It will look like a regular text document, but each line will have a timecode. Example: [01:15.24] This is where the chorus begins.


3. How to upload text to specific platforms

Different streaming services use different databases to pull in texts

Platform

From

How add

Yandex Music

Directly from the distributor

Add a TTML-file in page of release in lable site

VK Music / Zvuk

Directly from the distributor

Upload the synchronization file through the distributor panel.

Apple Music / Spotify

DB from Musixmatch

Verify your account with Musixmatch Pro and upload your lyrics through their app or through your distributor (if they support integration).

4. How to simplify the process with F-EX Records (not for all)

Working with Musixmatch often turns into a test: long verification of the artist's profile, synchronization errors, and failures in transferring data to storefronts.

When distributing through F-EX Records, the process of delivering lyrics becomes part of a unified ecosystem. You don't need to register in dozens of third-party services:

  • One-click upload: Our distribution dashboard has a dedicated field for adding lyrics. Simply paste the prepared text or upload a file when creating a release.

  • Fast delivery to CIS platforms: We directly transfer synchronized lyrics to Yandex Music and VK Music along with audio files. The lyrics will appear on the platform simultaneously with the release of the track.

  • Technical moderation: Our team checks the correctness of the lyrics before shipment to eliminate the risk of rejection by the platforms due to extra spaces or prohibited characters.


Common errors when uploading lyrics (FAQ)

  • Why didn't my text pass moderation? The most common reason is punctuation at the end of lines. In the correct formatting of texts for streaming, dots and commas are not placed at the end of lines (except for question marks and exclamation points).

  • Is it possible to add text to an already released track? Yes, through the distributor's personal account, you can update the metadata (Update) and upload text to an existing release.

  • Do I need to include backing vocals and adlibs? They are usually indicated in parentheses on the same line as the main phrase, or on a separate line if they are spoken in pauses.


 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page