Does Shazam Work With Humming?
Short answer: no. Shazam only recognises recorded music that's playing. If you hum, sing or whistle, it won't find a match. Here's why, and what to use instead.
Why Shazam can't hear humming
Shazam works by matching an audio "fingerprint" of the exact recording: the specific mix of instruments, voice and production. Your humming has none of that, only the melody. Recognising humming needs a different technology that compares the shape of the melody (which notes go up and down, and by how much) against a melody database.
What to use instead
- SoundCatch: hum, sing or whistle in any browser, on iPhone, Android or computer. It also identifies recorded music and songs in saved videos.
- Google app: tap the mic, then "Search a song" (phone only).
- SoundHound: an app that supports singing and humming.
When Shazam is still the right tool
If the song is actually playing, any recording-based tool works well, Shazam included. SoundCatch's Listen mode does the same in the browser, and the SoundCatch Chrome extension identifies songs playing in your browser tab, even with headphones on.
FAQ
Can Siri identify humming?
No. Siri uses Shazam for music, so it only recognises recorded songs.
Is there a Shazam for humming?
Yes: SoundCatch, Google's hum to search, and SoundHound all recognise humming.
Find your song now
Hum it, play it, or upload a video. Your first song is free, no account needed.
Find my song →Read more: Shazam for Desktop: How to Identify Songs Playing in Your Browser · How to Find a Song by Humming on iPhone (3 Free Ways) · How to Find a Song by Whistling · All guides
Free music tools: Vocal range test · BPM & key finder · Ringtone maker