How to Cite a Song or Music in MLA (9th edition)
Learn how to cite a song or music recording in MLA format (9th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
MLA Works Cited Format
Here is the standard MLA format for citing a song or music in your Works Cited page:
Artist Last Name, First Name. "Title of Song." Album Title, Record Label, Year.
MLA Example for a Song or Music
A complete MLA reference for a song or music, formatted by the official MLA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
Nakamura, Rei. “Marginalia.” Quiet Library, Blue Room Records, 2020. Album.
Matching in-text citation: (Nakamura)
MLA In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(Artist, "Track Title")
Narrative
Artist sings "Track Title"...
Key MLA Formatting Rules
- Put the song title in quotation marks.
- Italicize the album title.
- Include record label and year.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your song or music.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the MLA (9th edition) template shown above.
- Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
- Add to your Works Cited: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match MLA requirements.
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