Get an API key

SoundCloud issues app credentials for the public API: a Client ID and Client Secret (together, what many developers call an API key). Use the SoundCloud API CLI to create an app or retrieve the credentials for your existing app.

1. Artist Pro subscription required#

You need a SoundCloud Artist Pro subscription to register API applications and receive credentials.

2. Run the SoundCloud API CLI#

The CLI requires Node.js 18+. Run this one command from your terminal, cloud environment, or coding agent:

curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/soundcloud/api/master/scripts/sc-api-auth.mjs | node --input-type=module - --remote --name "My API App" --description "What my integration does" --website "https://example.com"

Replace the example metadata with accurate details about your integration. The script is maintained in soundcloud/api.

3. Complete remote pairing#

The --remote option prints a pairing URL (https://secure.soundcloud.com/activate/…). Open it on any device, sign in or create a SoundCloud account, and approve the pairing. This keeps the CLI usable in SSH sessions, CI, cloud shells, and coding-agent environments without a browser callback server.

The CLI then creates your app, or returns the credentials for your existing app, and prints the Client ID, Client Secret, and credential JSON to the terminal.

4. Store credentials securely#

Store the Client Secret in environment variables or a secrets manager. Never commit it to source control, include it in a prompt, or expose it in client-side code.

5. Use the credentials#

Next step: API Guide — Authentication to exchange credentials for access tokens and call the API.

6. Browser alternative and app management#

If you prefer a browser workflow, visit Your Apps, create a new application, provide its name, description, and website, accept the terms, then copy the Client ID and Client Secret. Use the same page to view or manage an existing app, such as updating its redirect URI.

The CLI remains the recommended way to create or retrieve credentials, especially for local, cloud, and coding-agent workflows.

When registering or managing an app, follow these rules:

  • Provide accurate information in App name, Description, and Website (if you add one).
  • You may only use the API in line with the API Terms of Use and other policies that apply to developers.
  • You are responsible for keeping your Client Secret private and for how your app uses the API.

Read the full API Terms of Use before going live.