Timed sources first, then plain text, then empty
Automatic mode tries available timed sources first because they can follow pause, seek, and song changes without guessing.
If timestamps are missing, StreamLyric shows readable plain text. If no honest source exists, the view stays empty. Empty is a valid result.
Manual selection cannot invent timestamps
You can pin a provider when automatic order is wrong for a specific upload. That choice still cannot create line or word timing the source does not have.
A remix, live recording, or regional catalog may return a weaker source than the studio track. Compare the exact upload instead of forcing a timeline.
Karaoke is judged after the source, not instead of it
Word-level fill needs compatible timing and Trial or Pro. Free keeps Karaoke off even when a timed source is present.
Line timing is enough for a multi-line Overlay to follow playback. It is not enough to promise a highlight sweep.
This page is source order, not lyric-shape comparison
What synchronized lyrics versus plain text can do once they arrive is documented in the synced-versus-plain guide.
Missing lyrics troubleshooting belongs on the not-showing article. Do not treat a blank Overlay as a provider-order bug until Chrome itself has no lyrics.
Step-by-step setup
- 01Play the exact upload in YouTube Music
StreamLyric reads the current Chrome playback context, not a playlist title or a different mix.
- 02Leave automatic mode on unless a named source is required
Automatic order is timed, then plain text, then empty. Manual pick still cannot invent timestamps.
- 03Inspect whether the chosen source has timing
Plain text is a successful fallback. Do not treat it as a broken automatic mode.
- 04Judge Karaoke on a separate pass
Word-level fill needs compatible timing plus Trial or Pro. Free keeps Karaoke off.
Frequently asked questions
Does StreamLyric work with every song?
No. Lyrics depend on the track, version, region, and available provider. Empty is valid.
Can I force Karaoke by picking another source?
No. Manual selection cannot invent timestamps. Karaoke also stays off on Free.
Is empty worse than plain text?
No. Empty means no honest source. Fabricating a timeline would be worse.