08-03-2011, 12:10 PM

Hi,

I've accidently removed some of my itunes library, a big chunk of it and am wondering if I can restore it from my time machine backups or do I have to download it all again from the original source?

I'm hoping I can just go in time machine and restore it but not sure if it will work like that with itunes.

Thanks

08-03-2011, 12:32 PM

If you open the /Users/yourusername/Music folder and then activate Time Machine, you'll see all the previous versions of your Music folder. Choose one that you know is good and click the Restore button, and it'll replace your current library with the one from your backup.

08-03-2011, 12:53 PM

Thanks.
I would go into finder to open the user/username/music folder?

I'll give it a shot when I get a chance.

08-03-2011, 12:55 PM

Just checked and in the music folder there is an itunes folder, I guess it's this one I'd restore, or do I have to look for a folder named 'itunes library'?

08-03-2011, 01:16 PM

Nope that's it... if you restore the entire iTunes folder, you'll get the library files and all the music should be in the correct place.

So here's what I did. Once the backup drive was connected...

1. Browse to /Users/yourusername/Music
2. From Spotlight (top right corner of screen) I typed in Time Machine. It should come up as the top hit.
3. Time Machine opens its spacescape with the iTunes folder in the foreground and windows extending back in time.
4. Use the date scroll on the right edge to choose which backup you would like to restore. Could be yesterday, could be last week - up to you.
5. Click the Restore button.
6. (something happens)
7. Profit!!

Hope you're able to get everything restored!