On Mac, "Copying files failed. A duplicate filename was specified" error in Apple Music

Question

On Mac, "Copying files failed. A duplicate filename was specified" error in Apple Music

On a Mac, OS running Catalina v10.15.4 (19E287) running Apple Music v1.0.4.104 I've selected File/Library/Organise Library/Consolidate Files in Apple Music. Running that job I get an error "Copying files failed. A duplicate filename was specified". It's not possible to select only some of the files (like say all songs begining with A). It's an automatic process. It tries all of them and then fails somewhere. I can't see the problem file(s). All my music files are in my folder Users/[username]/Music/ITunes/ITunes Media. Even though all my files are in the iTunes Media folder sometimes music files pop up elsewhere and I'd like Apple Music to consolidate them automatically. What can I do please to clear that error?

MacBook Air 13", macOS 10.15

Posted on May 15, 2020 4:46 AM

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Answer 1

sterling r

Community Specialist

May 15, 2020 5:39 PM in response to adrianjwilson

Hi adrianjwilson,

Thank you for using Apple Support Communities.

I understand Apple Music is unable to complete the 'Consolidate Files' function due to a duplicate filename.

You can find duplicate files by following the steps here: Find items and duplicates in Music on Mac.

Once duplicates have been removed, run the 'Consolidate Files' function again.

Hope this helps!

Cheers!

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Answer 2

May 18, 2020 8:13 AM in response to sterling r

I've found the duplicates and deleted the ones I want to. Some 'duplicates' are different versions. I've no exact duplicates. I've Updated the Cloud Library. I've still got the same message "Copying files failed. A duplicate file name was specified". How can I make Organise Files work?tried consolidating again via the Library/Organise Files control

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Answer 3

Teddy_B

Community Specialist

May 19, 2020 10:33 AM in response to adrianjwilson

Hi adrianjwilson,

I understand there are some duplicates you do not wish to delete. However, although they may be different versions, they may have a conflicting file name which is causing the interruption. I would recommend 'right-clicking' these songs and selecting 'Show in Finder'. This will allow you to rename the Original File to ensure there are no conflicting file names.

Please let me know if this step doesn't work and I'll see what further options we may have.

Thanks again.

Cheers!

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Answer 4

Jun 11, 2020 4:39 AM in response to Teddy_B

My iTunes files are now consolidating after taking the action you suggested - i.e. tidying up my duplicates. I still have a few duplicates but something has happened when I deleted most of them, which has cleared the error. Thanks very much for your help.

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On Mac, "Copying files failed. A duplicate filename was specified" error in Apple Music

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