Mycovers.eu

Music Downloads

Downloaded music is easier to browse when track details are consistent and every album has the right cover. Start with an authorised download, then check its metadata and artwork before adding it to your collection.

Choose legal music downloads

Look for downloads sold or explicitly offered by artists, record labels and authorised music stores. Artist-approved free releases are also an option.

Check the available formats before downloading. Bandcamp, for example, offers purchases in MP3, FLAC and several other formats, as explained in its download format guide.

For free music, read the permissions attached to the release. Creative Commons licences have different conditions governing sharing, adaptation and commercial use. Keep any licence information supplied with your download.

Understand MP3 metadata

MP3 files can store information called ID3 tags. These help music players display track names, group albums and sort your library.

Check these fields when importing an album:

  • Title and artist: identify each recording accurately.
  • Album and album artist: keep tracks grouped consistently.
  • Track and disc numbers: preserve the intended playing order.
  • Release date and genre: support browsing and filtering.

Use a tag editor to correct missing or inconsistent details. Review automatic matches before saving, particularly when an album has original, remastered and deluxe editions. Back up your files before making changes across a large collection.

Add cover artwork to downloaded tracks

Use the artwork included with your download where available. For artists such as Zero 7 or Gary Numan, check that the image matches the album and edition in your library.

  1. Open the tracks in a tag editor that supports embedded artwork.
  2. Select the album’s tracks and add the matching cover image.
  3. Set its image type to “Front Cover” where that option is available.
  4. Save the files, then check the album in your music player.

Embedding artwork stores the image inside the audio file. Some players require this rather than reading a separate image from the album folder. The MusicBrainz Picard cover art guide explains both approaches.

Keep your collection organised

Use a consistent folder structure, such as Artist / Album, and retain supplied booklets and artwork alongside the music. After editing tags or covers, refresh your player’s library if the changes do not appear immediately.