How to Cite Audio
Learn how to properly cite audio recordings, sound effects, and other audio materials in APA format.
Basic Format
Artist, A. A. (Year). Title of song [Song]. On Album title. Label.
Host, H. H. (Host). (Year, Month Day). Title of episode [Audio podcast episode]. In Podcast name. Publisher. URL
Examples
Music Recording
Beatles, The. (1967). Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds [Song]. On Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Capitol Records.
Audio Interview
Fresh Air. (2023, October 1). Interview with renowned scientist [Audio interview]. NPR. https://www.npr.org/programs/fresh-air
Sound Effect
Sound Library. (2023). Thunder and rain ambience [Audio file]. Retrieved October 15, 2023, from https://www.soundlibrary.com/effects
Key Elements
Creator Information
- Artist/Performer name
- Producer
- Composer
- Recording engineer
Audio Details
- Title of work
- Type of recording
- Format
- Duration
Source Information
- Label/Publisher
- Release date
- Platform
- Access information
Audio Types
Music
- Songs
- Albums
- Live recordings
- Soundtracks
Spoken Word
- Interviews
- Speeches
- Lectures
- Oral histories
Special Cases
Additional Guidelines
- Archival recordings
- Field recordings
- Sound effects
- Audio samples
In-Text Citations
First Citation
Use the creator's name and year:
The Beatles (1967) explored psychedelic themes...
Subsequent Citations
Use parenthetical citation:
The song (The Beatles, 1967) demonstrates...
Copyright and Licensing
- Music rights
- Performance rights
- Mechanical licenses
- Sampling permissions
- Fair use guidelines
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't omit performer credits
- Don't forget format specification
- Don't ignore release information
- Don't mix citation styles
- Don't neglect copyright details