Not able to rename or edit songs in iTunes

In iTunes, users usually can click and rename songs, as well as edit metadata in the "info" window; however, some users may find that songs in their iTunes libraries are not directly editable.

Apple Discussions poster stn774477 writes:

"I have a MP3 called "Ain't Talking 'Bout Dub" by Apollo 440. Itunes has it as Apollo Four Forty. Itunes allows me to change it to Apollo 440 and it keeps the change but then when I play the song it instantly changes back to Apollo Four Forty."

For some users, this problem may be due to user-level restrictions. This can occur either if permissions on the files are incorrect, or if files are locked. Users should check the individual files by right-clicking them in iTunes and selecting the "Show in Finder" option. Next, users should get info on the file and ensure that their username is listed in the "Sharing & Permissions" section and has been granted both "Read & Write" privileges (users may need to click the lock and authenticate to make changes). Additionally, in the "General" section, ensure the "Locked" checkbox is unchecked.

If this is a problem for many song files, especially after a restore (such as from Time Machine), users can try changing permissions on their whole iTunes library by locating the parent folder for the iTunes library (usually /username/Music/iTunes/) and get info (Command-I) on that folder. Next, ensure the username and permissions are correct for that folder and use the gear menu at the bottom of the info window to propagate permissions to all enclosed files. This should reset all files' permissions according to those set on the parent folder.

If the files are properly accessible and users cannot edit any song in their library then this problem may be due to a corrupt iTunes library. Users should try removing the file from the iTunes folder and then relaunch the program. iTunes will create a new library, and users can then drag the "iTunes Music" folder to the iTunes window to reimport their songs.

Resources