This guide will show you how to add your own music to GTA V for PC, enabling you to drive around Los Santos to your favorite songs and customize your gaming experience beyond the in-game radio stations.
Before you begin, ensure your music files are in MP3 format as other formats will not play in the game. You will need at least four music files to enable the “Self Radio” station.
To add and play your own music within GTA V on your PC, follow these steps. First, copy the music you want to add from its current location on your computer, ensuring the files are in MP3 format. Open the Start menu by pressing the Windows key on your keyboard and type “Rockstar” into the search field. Select the Rockstar Games folder from the results and double-click the GTA V folder inside it. Then, double-click the User Music folder to open it. Right-click anywhere inside the User Music folder and select Paste from the context menu to copy your music files. You need a minimum of four music files for them to play in the game.
Next, launch GTA V by clicking its icon on your desktop. Once the game loads to the main menu, choose either Continue or New Game to enter the game world. While in the game, press the ESC key on your keyboard to open the in-game menu. Using the arrow keys, select Settings from the navigation bar at the top, then press Enter. From the left-hand menu panel, select Audio to view your game’s audio settings. In the main panel, select Perform Full Scan for Music. The game will now scan the User Music folder for your files. Once the scan is complete and the audio options are re-enabled, press the ESC key to exit the settings and return to the game. Your changes will be saved automatically.
To play your custom music in-game, enter any vehicle by pressing the F key. The car radio will automatically start playing. Inside the vehicle, press the . (dot) key or , (comma) key on your keyboard to cycle through radio stations until you select Self Radio. This station plays the music you added. To switch between songs in your personal playlist, press the = (equals) key or – (dash) key on your keyboard.
While there’s no official limit to the number of songs you can add, having a very large music library might slightly increase the game’s loading time during the scanning process.
Adding your own music to GTA V significantly enhances your gameplay experience, allowing you to personalize your drives through Los Santos. This customization deepens immersion and makes every car chase, leisurely drive, or mission feel more personal and engaging. Beyond personal enjoyment, knowing how to modify game files like this opens up possibilities for further customization and understanding of game directories, empowering players to take control of their gaming environment.
