Stream metadata is the “now playing” information, the song title and artist, that appears in listeners’ players and on your website. When it works, listeners always know what they are hearing, which improves the experience and helps people discover music they like. When it is missing or wrong, your stream can look unpolished. This guide explains how metadata works and how to get it displaying correctly.
What stream metadata is #
Metadata is a small piece of text sent alongside your audio that updates as each track changes. Players read it to show the current song, and many website widgets and directories display it too. It is separate from the audio itself, which is why it can sometimes be right or wrong independently of the sound.
Where metadata comes from #
The source of your metadata depends on how you broadcast:
- AutoDJ: the server reads the ID3 tags in your uploaded files and sends the title and artist automatically.
- Live broadcasting: your encoder software sends the metadata, often based on the track loaded in your DJ or playout software.
Getting metadata right with AutoDJ #
Because AutoDJ relies on your files’ tags, accurate metadata starts with well-tagged music. To keep it clean:
- Make sure every file has the correct Artist en Title tags before uploading.
- Use consistent formatting so titles look tidy on air.
- Re-tag and re-upload any files that show blank or wrong information.
Getting metadata right when broadcasting live #
When you are live, your encoder or playout software is responsible for sending the current track information. Check that your software has metadata or “song update” enabled, and that it is configured to send updates to your server. DJ tools like Mixxx and playout tools like SAM Broadcaster can send the loaded track’s details automatically when set up correctly.
Displaying metadata on your website #
Many radio players and WordPress plugins can show the current song by reading your stream’s metadata. If you want a “now playing” display on your site, choose a player that supports it and point it at your stream. This gives visitors a live view of what is on air.
Problemen oplossen #
- No song info showing: check that your files are tagged (AutoDJ) or that your encoder is sending metadata (live).
- Wrong track displayed: confirm the tags are correct and re-upload if needed.
- Website not updating: use a player that reads live metadata.
Hulp nodig? #
If your now-playing information is not showing correctly, our support team can help you track down why over live chat.
