How to Add Music to an Instagram Post (Step-by-Step Guide)

Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms, and adding music to your posts can make them more engaging, entertaining, and shareable. Whether you’re uploading a reel, story, or regular feed post, Instagram offers several options to include music in your content.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to add music to an Instagram post, including reels, stories, and regular posts, with simple instructions.

Why Add Music to an Instagram Post?

Adding music to Instagram posts has several benefits:

• Enhances Engagement – Music makes your content more entertaining and memorable.
• Creates a Mood – Songs can set the tone for your video or image.
• Boosts Visibility – Trending songs can increase your chances of appearing on the Explore page.
• Improves Storytelling – The right song can complement your message or emotions.

Now, let’s go step by step and learn how to add music to different types of Instagram posts.

Adding Music to an Instagram Reel

Instagram Reels are short, engaging videos that often include music. Here’s how to add music to your reel:

Step 1: Open Instagram and Tap the “+” Icon

• Launch Instagram on your phone.
• Tap the “+” button at the bottom or top right corner.
• Select “Reel” from the menu.

Step 2: Record or Upload a Video

• Tap and hold the record button to shoot a video.
• Alternatively, tap the gallery icon to upload an existing video.

Step 3: Tap the Music Icon

• Look for the music icon on the left side of the screen.
• This opens Instagram’s music library.

Step 4: Search and Select a Song

• Browse trending songs or use the search bar to find a specific track.
• Tap the song to preview it.
• Select the part of the song you want to use.

Step 5: Adjust the Volume

• Tap the mixing icon to balance your video’s original sound and the music track.

Step 6: Edit Your Reel

• Add effects, text, stickers, or filters.
• Adjust the speed or trim the video if necessary.

Step 7: Post Your Reel

• Tap “Next”, write a caption, add hashtags, and choose a cover image.
• Tap “Share” to post your reel.

How to Add Music to an Instagram Story

Instagram Stories are perfect for sharing short, fun moments with music. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Instagram Stories

• Tap your profile picture at the top-left corner.
• Swipe left on the home screen to access the Story camera.

Step 2: Capture or Upload a Photo/Video

• Tap the capture button to take a photo or video.
• Swipe up to upload an image or video from your gallery.

Step 3: Tap the Sticker Icon

• Tap the sticker icon (a smiley face) at the top.
• Select the “Music” sticker.

Step 4: Search and Select a Song

• Use the search bar to find a song.
• Tap on a track to preview and select a section.

Step 5: Customize the Music Display

• Choose from different music display styles (lyrics, album cover, or title only).
• Resize and move the sticker as needed.

Step 6: Share Your Story

• Tap “Your Story” to share instantly.
• Tap “Close Friends” to share with selected people.

How to Add Music to an Instagram Post (Feed Post)

Instagram now allows users to add music to photo and video posts on the main feed. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Instagram and Create a New Post

• Tap the “+” icon at the bottom.
• Select “Post” and choose a photo or video.

Step 2: Tap the “Add Music” Option

• If available, you’ll see an “Add Music” button.
• Tap it to open Instagram’s music library.

Step 3: Search and Select a Song

• Browse recommended songs or use the search bar.
• Tap a song and choose a section (up to 90 seconds).

Step 4: Adjust and Preview

• Adjust the volume if needed.
• Tap “Done” to apply the music.

Step 5: Post Your Content

• Add a caption, hashtags, and tags.
• Tap “Share” to post it to your feed.

How to Add Music to an Instagram Post Without Copyright Issues

To avoid copyright restrictions, follow these tips:

1. Use Instagram’s Licensed Music Library – Stick to the songs available on Instagram.
2. Credit the Artist – Tagging the artist in your caption can be a good practice.
3. Use Royalty-Free Music – Platforms like Epidemic Sound, Artlist, and Soundstripe offer safe music.
4. Avoid Commercial Songs for Business Accounts – Some songs are restricted for business use.

Troubleshooting: Why Can’t I Add Music to My Instagram Post?

If you don’t see the music option, try these solutions:

• Update Instagram – Ensure you have the latest version.
• Switch to a Personal or Creator Account – Some business accounts have restrictions.
• Use a VPN – Certain regions don’t have the music feature.
• Clear Cache and Restart the App – This can resolve minor glitches.

Best Music Selection Tips for Instagram Posts

Tip	Description
Match the Mood	Choose music that complements your content’s tone.
Consider Your Audience	Pick songs that resonate with your followers.
Follow Trends	Use trending songs for better visibility.
Keep It Relevant	Select music that fits the theme of your post.
Avoid Copyright Issues	Use Instagram’s licensed tracks.

Using Third-Party Apps to Add Music

If Instagram’s built-in music library doesn’t have the song you want, you can add music using external apps like:

Here is a table with the video editing apps and their key features:

App Name	Key Features
InShot	A free video editing app with a music feature.
CapCut	Popular for adding background music and effects.
Adobe Premiere Rush	A professional editing app with audio tools.
Kinemaster	Offers advanced music editing features.

After editing, upload the video with music to Instagram as a regular post or reel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Adding music to Instagram posts is a great way to enhance your content and attract more engagement. Whether you’re posting a reel, story, or feed post, Instagram provides various tools to integrate music seamlessly. By following the steps outlined above, you can create more engaging, dynamic, and entertaining posts.

Experiment with different songs, stay updated on trending music, and enjoy making creative Instagram content!

Would you like more tips on Instagram growth strategies? Let us know in the comments!