how to put music on instagram post

how to put music on instagram post

How can one ensure that the background music complements rather than overwhelms the visual content of an Instagram post?


How to Put Music on Your Instagram Post

Adding music to your Instagram posts is an excellent way to engage with your audience and create a more immersive experience. Whether you’re sharing travel photos, showcasing new products, or simply sharing your daily life, the right musical backdrop can significantly enhance the overall impact of your post. This article will guide you through the process of integrating music into your Instagram posts, ensuring that it enhances rather than detracts from your visuals.

Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Music

The first step in putting music on your Instagram post is selecting the right type of music. The genre should align with the theme of your post. For instance, if you’re posting about a beach vacation, consider using calming ocean sounds or tropical beats. If you’re sharing a workout video, energetic and motivating tracks could be perfect. The key is to choose music that fits the mood and context of your post.

To avoid legal issues, always ensure that the music you use is either original and legally yours, or copyright-free. There are several platforms that offer royalty-free music, such as Epidemic Sound, AudioJungle, and Unsplash Sounds. These services provide high-quality audio clips that can be used for free without any attribution required. Additionally, many musicians upload their own tracks to websites like Bandcamp and SoundCloud, where you can often find music under creative commons licenses.

Step 3: Use Instagram’s Audio Feature

Instagram provides a straightforward way to add music to your posts. After uploading your photo or video, tap the “Add Music” button at the bottom of the screen. From there, you can browse through the available options or search for specific songs. Once you’ve selected your track, tap “Use” to apply it to your post. Instagram supports both embedded audio (where the song plays directly from your profile) and external audio (where you can link to the song).

Step 4: Consider the Volume and Duration

The volume and duration of your music are crucial factors in making sure it works well with your post. Keep the volume level appropriate so that it doesn’t overpower the visual elements. As for the duration, try to match the length of your post. For example, a short photo might benefit from a shorter snippet of music, while a longer video would require a more extended track.

Step 5: Experiment with Different Styles

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles of music. Sometimes, a subtle background track can do wonders, whereas other times, a louder and more prominent sound can make a significant impact. Try out various genres and moods until you find what feels right for your post. Remember, the goal is to create an enjoyable and cohesive experience for your followers.

Step 6: Test Before Posting

Before finalizing your post, take a moment to test how the music integrates with your visuals. You can do this by playing the music in the background while viewing your post on different devices and in different settings. Adjust the volume and timing as needed to ensure a seamless and enjoyable listening experience.

Step 7: Consistency and Branding

If you plan to use music frequently, consider creating a consistent playlist or soundtrack for your posts. This helps build brand recognition and makes your content feel more cohesive. Additionally, be mindful of the overall tone and style of your posts. Ensure that the music aligns with your brand voice and values.

Step 8: Seek Feedback

Finally, don’t hesitate to seek feedback from your audience. Engage with comments and messages to understand what kind of music resonates with them. This can provide valuable insights into what works best for your community and help you refine your approach over time.

By following these steps, you can effectively incorporate music into your Instagram posts, enhancing their visual appeal and creating a more engaging user experience. Remember, the key is to find the right balance between music and visuals, ensuring that each element complements the other to create a memorable and impactful post.


  1. Q: What are some good sources for finding royalty-free music?

    • A: Some popular platforms include Epidemic Sound, AudioJungle, and Unsplash Sounds. Many musicians also share their tracks on Bandcamp and SoundCloud under creative commons licenses.
  2. Q: Can I use copyrighted music on my Instagram post?

    • A: No, using copyrighted music without permission can lead to legal issues. Always use royalty-free or original music that you own the rights to.
  3. Q: How long should my music be compared to my Instagram post?

    • A: Match the duration of your music to the length of your post. Shorter videos may benefit from shorter snippets, while longer videos require more extended tracks.
  4. Q: Is it necessary to adjust the volume of the music?

    • A: Yes, keep the volume level appropriate so that it doesn’t overpower the visual elements. Test your post across different devices to ensure consistency.
  5. Q: How can I ensure the music complements my post’s theme?

    • A: Choose music that aligns with the theme of your post. For example, use calming ocean sounds for beach vacations or energetic tracks for workout videos.