If you discover the music library for Instagram Reels is limited or unavailable for your account, it’s most likely due to licensing restrictions based on your location. Music options can vary by country due to record label and publisher agreements.
Check your location settings
The first thing to check is your location settings in the Instagram app. Go to your profile, tap Menu > Settings > Account > Country. Make sure your Country is set correctly. Instagram’s music library availability is based on the country listed here.
If your Country is already set right, then the issue likely lies with licensing restrictions for your region. The music libraries that Instagram can offer depends on the deals they have secured with record labels, music publishers, and songwriters in each country.
Licensing limitations by location
Instagram has negotiated access to various music catalogs based on regions and territories. If certain labels or publishers have not authorized use in your country, then that music will not be available to use in Reels.
For example, Sony Music may have approved a song for use in Reels in the United States, but not in Canada. So someone in Toronto would not have access to that song in the Instagram music library, while someone in New York would.
Likewise, independent artists or publishers may have selectively approved certain songs on a country-by-country basis. Instagram only has the rights to make songs available within the locations permitted by the rights holders.
How Instagram licenses music
When you select a song from Instagram’s music library to use in a Reel, Instagram actually secures the necessary rights and licenses on your behalf. This allows you to legally use the song in your video.
Instagram has agreements with major record labels like Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group. They also work with independent labels and publishers as well as associations like Kobalt.
These deals allow Instagram to sub-license songs to users for content creation in Reels. But the licenses are valid only for certain countries and territories where approval has been granted.
Will more music be available in my region soon?
Possibly. Instagram is continuously negotiating with labels, publishers, and collective rights organizations to expand the music catalog available in Reels globally. More songs are being added to the library all the time.
If you notice popular or trending songs that are unavailable in your area, Instagram is likely working to get licensing approval in your country so those songs can be added.
What are some alternative options?
If the song you want to use is not in Instagram’s music library for your region, here are some options:
- Use the Reels audio feature to borrow sounds directly from other videos.
- Use IG-original music tracks created exclusively for Reels.
- Use music from Epidemic Sound’s catalog available to licensed Instagram users.
- Use popular audio clips and viral meme sounds.
- Create an original soundtrack or use royalty-free music from other sources.
Is unavailable music only an issue on mobile?
Yes, the limitations based on music licensing agreements only impact the mobile Instagram app. On desktop, any audio can be uploaded as part of the Reel creation process.
So if you have a desktop available, you can upload the desired music track there to get around restrictions on mobile. Just keep in mind that the track will still need proper rights clearance for commercial use.
How can I request songs be added in my country?
Unfortunately there is no way to directly request specific songs be added to the Reels music library in your location. Instagram handles all music licensing negotiations internally.
The best thing you can do is use songs that are available in your region for now. The more creators that produce Reels using the current catalog, the more incentive for Instagram to expand music access in your country.
Should I use unavailable songs anyway?
It’s not recommended. Using a song Without proper licensing can lead to legal issues such as copyright infringement claims or your content being blocked or restricted.
Instagram may also issue a warning, temporary block, or permanent suspension for repeated violations of their Terms of Use. It’s best to be patient and use the music options legally available for now.
Does Instagram plan to expand music internationally?
Yes. Adding more songs from major and independent labels is a top priority for Instagram. They want Reels to have a vast, current catalog of trending music available for all regions.
Expanding licensing is a long process, but Instagram is actively negotiating with music rights holders around the world. The song selection will steadily improve as these new deals get finalized country by country.