Many iTunes users notice that their last.fm scrobbler is not working after a macOS update or a change in account settings. When scrobbling breaks, it usually means the connection between iTunes, the last.fm app, and your profile is misconfigured.
The following sections explain why this happens, how to verify each component, and how to restore full scrobble tracking for your music library.
| Component | Status to Check | Where to Look | Action if Not Working |
|---|---|---|---|
| iTunes Scrobbling Setting | Enabled or Disabled | iTunes → Preferences → Advanced → Scrobbling | Toggle on and re-enter last.fm credentials |
| Last.fm Subscribed Services | Active or Inactive | last.fm → settings → scrobbling → subscribed services | Confirm iTunes service is active |
| Desktop Scrobbler App | Running or Stopped | System tray or menu bar | Start the app and allow firewall access |
| Account Authentication | Valid or Expired | last.fm profile page and iTunes plugin | Re-authenticate and update password if needed |
Verify iTunes Scrobbling Settings
The first place to look when last.fm scrobbler not working iTunes is inside iTunes itself. Apple sometimes resets permissions after updates, turning scrobbling off without warning.
Open iTunes, choose Preferences, go to the Advanced panel, and click Scrobbling. Make sure the option to scrobble is enabled and that your last.fm username and password are correctly filled in.
Check Last.fm Subscribed Services
Confirm iTunes Service Status
Even with local scrobbling turned on, your last.fm account may have the iTunes scrobbling service suspended. Visit your last.fm settings, open the subscribed services section, and verify that iTunes shows as active.
If it is inactive, toggle it on again and re-authorize if required, because tokens can expire after password changes.
Configure the Last.fm Desktop Scrobbler
Desktop App Must Be Running
The last.fm desktop scrobbler listens for track starts in iTunes and sends data to the server. If the app is closed or crashing, scrobbles will not be recorded even when everything else looks correct.
Make sure the scrobbler is running, allow it through any macOS security prompts, and ensure it has permission to control iTunes in System Settings → Privacy & Security.
Common Issues and Fixes
Network problems, firewall blocks, and outdated versions of iTunes or the scrobbler can all stop tracks from being logged. Clearing cached credentials and restarting both applications often resolves unexplained failures.
Check that your system clock is accurate, that you are not on a captive portal, and that no proxy settings are interfering with secure connections to last.fm.
Maintain Reliable Scrobbling Long Term
Keeping last.fm scrobbler working with iTunes is easier with a few simple habits that prevent common breakages.
- Enable automatic updates for iTunes and the last.fm desktop app to avoid compatibility issues.
- Check your subscribed services monthly to ensure the iTunes scrobbler remains active after password changes.
- Allow the scrobbler through firewall and privacy settings after any system update.
- Restart both iTunes and the last.fm app if you notice missed tracks or delayed profile updates.
- Monitor your last.fm profile chart regularly to catch gaps in scrobbling early.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why does last.fm show no scrobbles after a macOS update?
macOS updates can reset application permissions, causing the iTunes scrobbler to stop working. Reopen iTunes, go to Preferences, re-enable scrobbling, and re-enter your last.fm credentials if necessary.
My tracks scrobble in the last.fm app but not on my profile charts, why?
This usually means the iTunes service is inactive in your last.fm subscribed services. Visit your settings, locate iTunes under scrobbling, and toggle the service back on to resume profile tracking.
Can a firewall block last.fm scrobbler from working with iTunes?
Yes, strict firewall or network policies can prevent the desktop scrobbler from reaching last.fm servers. Add an exception for the scrobbler and for iTunes, then restart both apps.
Do I need to resync my entire library after fixing scrobbling?
No, only new plays are tracked once the connection is restored. Your full library history remains on last.fm, so you do not need to resync or re-upload anything.