LinuxCommandLibrary

cmus

Play music from the command line

TLDR

Open cmus into the specified directory (this will become your new working directory)

$ cmus [path/to/directory]
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Add file/directory to library
$ <:>add [path/to/file_or_directory]
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Pause/unpause current song
$ <c>
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Toggle shuffle mode on/off
$ <s>
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Quit cmus
$ <q>
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SYNOPSIS

cmus [options] [files|directories]

PARAMETERS

-C, --clear
    Clear the cmus configuration.

-f, --force-clear
    Force clear even with the current version.

-v, --version
    Display version information and exit.

-h, --help
    Display this help message and exit.

[files|directories]
    Files or directories to add to the library and playlist.

DESCRIPTION

cmus is a fast, powerful and versatile curses-based music player for Linux and other Unix-like operating systems. Designed for users who prefer a keyboard-centric interface, it provides extensive control over playback, library management, and configuration, all within a text-based environment. cmus supports numerous audio formats, including MP3, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, Musepack, Wavpack, WMA, AAC, MP4, and various others, depending on the plugins installed. It offers features like gapless playback, ReplayGain support, customizable keybindings, and a powerful filter-based library view. cmus emphasizes efficiency and low resource usage, making it suitable for both low-powered systems and users seeking a distraction-free music listening experience.

The player is highly customizable through configuration files, allowing users to tailor the interface and functionality to their specific needs. Its minimalistic design and efficient operation has cultivated a loyal user base that appreciates its focus on core functionality and lack of bloat.

CAVEATS

cmus is a text-based application, so it lacks a graphical user interface. Configuration is primarily done through text files, which may require some initial effort to learn.

INTERFACE

cmus uses a split-screen interface consisting of views. Some of the commonly used views are the library view(1), the playlist view(2), and the browser view(3). Navigate by pressing TAB. Use hjkl (vim like keys) for navigation.

CONFIGURATION

cmus reads its configuration from `~/.config/cmus/autosave` and `~/.config/cmus/rc`.
Note: The settings saved in the `autosave` file are automatically saved during program termination.

HISTORY

cmus was initially developed by Timo Hirvonen and is under active development. Its design principles emphasize speed, efficiency, and a keyboard-driven interface, reflecting the preferences of many experienced Linux users who value productivity and control over resource usage. cmus is a well-established command and has maintained a loyal userbase.

SEE ALSO

mpd(1), mocp(1)

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