Looking to add great music to your Instagram reels? The key is finding the right songs and audio that complement your content and brand. With billions of tracks to choose from, it can be tricky to find music that is high-quality, fits your vibe, and is properly licensed. The good news is there are several ways to get better music for your Instagram reels.
Use Instagram’s built-in music library
The easiest option is to use Instagram’s own music library located within the Reels creation tool. This gives you access to an extensive catalog of popular and trending songs that are pre-approved for use in Reels. From pop hits to viral tunes, Instagram’s music selection is frequently updated. To find fitting music:
- Open the Instagram app and tap the (+) icon in the top left to create a new Reels video.
- After recording a clip, tap the music note icon at the top.
- Browse Instagram’s music library by keywords, genres, moods or what’s popular.
- Preview clips of songs to find the perfect match for your Reel.
- Tap the song you want and it will be automatically added to your video.
Instagram’s music library removes the hassle of finding properly licensed songs. Just be sure to avoid covers or remixes, as the rights may differ. Stick to original recordings found directly in Instagram’s catalog.
Search for free-to-use music
Beyond Instagram’s stock music, there are many free tunes you can use without worrying about copyright issues. Search these sites for a wide selection of high-quality, free-to-use songs and sounds:
- YouTube Audio Library – downloadable audio tracks with flexible usage rights.
- Free Music Archive – songs and sound effects under Creative Commons licenses.
- SoundCloud – search for tracks marked with “Creative Commons” attribution.
- Unminus – library of independent music for commercial use.
- BenSound – royalty-free music and audio.
Since these sources offer music under more open licenses, you can use the songs freely without worrying about disputes. Just be sure to credit the artist properly.
Use production music libraries
For more variety, consider production music libraries with huge catalogs to suit any mood or style. These libraries license quality music for a reasonable subscription fee so you can access tons of tracks. Popular options include:
- Epidemic Sound – 30-day free trial then paid plans starting at $15/month.
- Artlist – 7-day free trial then paid plans starting at $199/year.
- PremiumBeat – 7-day free trial then paid plans starting at $49/month.
- Shutterstock Music – from $29/month for web usage.
While not free, production music gives you lots of contemporary, high-quality tracks at an affordable rate. Just avoid sampling short clips, as full song licensing is usually required.
Purchase music distribution rights
For popular or mainstream music, you’ll likely need to purchase the distribution rights. This grants you legal permission to use the song in your Reels video. There are a few options:
- Contact the label or artist – bigger artists may license their music via their website or label contacts.
- Use a distributor marketplace – sites like SongFile hook you up directly with music rights holders.
- Negotiate via a broker – they handle licensing discussions on your behalf for a fee.
Purchasing distribution rights gives access to the most recognizable, mainstream music. But it can get expensive for blockbuster hits. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $10,000+ depending on the song and usage.
Reach out to aspiring and unsigned artists
Lesser-known and unsigned musicians are often eager to get their work out there. If you hear a great song, reach out to the artist directly to ask about featuring their music in your Reel. Many will happily license their songs for free or cheap if it gives them more exposure. Places to find aspiring artists:
- Instagram hashtags – search your music genre plus #unsignedartist or #upandcoming.
- YouTube, TikTok – comment on unsigned artists’ videos to connect.
- Music forums – join communities focused on your preferred genre.
- Local shows – check out live gigs and chat with performers.
This mutually beneficial arrangement gives you affordable music and unsigned musicians valuable publicity. Just be sure to negotiate usage terms upfront.
Use viral sounds and meme music
Funny viral sounds and meme music can also be a hit, especially for more casual content. Sources for trending audio clips and memes include:
- TikTok trends – take advantage of the app’s latest viral sounds.
- YouTube – search “meme sound effects” or “viral TikTok sounds.”
- Subreddits – r/TikTokCringe and r/youtubehaiku.
- Meme generator apps – like Zombodroid Meme Generator.
Viral sounds likely fall under fair use since you’re repurposing short audio snippets. But avoid trademark issues by not using branded meme music like the TikTok “Oh No” jingle.
Use editing tools to enhance audio
Even with great music, the audio might need some enhancement to sound best. Try using editing tools to improve the quality:
- Normalize volume – stabilize playback volume if needed.
- Compress dynamics – make the sound more consistent.
- Reduce background noise – cut out hissing or humming.
- Fade in/out – gently transition the beginning and end.
Basic audio cleanup results in music that sounds more polished and professional. Instagram’s own editing tools include options to trim, fade and adjust volume.
Follow best practices when adding music
After selecting your sounds, make sure to follow Instagram’s music guidelines:
- Only use music you have the rights to share.
- Credit the artist in the caption or with a tag if possible.
- Use songs in their entirety – no partial clips or remixed portions.
- Keep reels under 90 seconds to avoid issues.
- Don’t manipulate the pitch or tempo of songs.
Staying compliant means your audio will remain intact if your reel goes viral. Carefully chosen music completes your video for maximum entertainment and engagement!