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How to Search for Audio on Instagram

Published June 10, 2024

Music and sound effects are essential ingredients for captivating Instagram Reels. Finding the perfect audio clip can elevate your video from good to great, setting the mood and enhancing your message. But how can you find the best audio clips for your videos?

With this article, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to effectively search for audio clips on Instagram Reels, ensuring you have the perfect soundtrack at your fingertips.

What Are the Audio Options on Instagram?

Instagram offers two primary ways to incorporate audio into your Reels:

  1. The Built-In Music Library: Instagram provides a vast music library containing licensed songs and sound effects. You can check out the new releases, and original audio, or browse through Instagram’s “For You” selection.
  2. Uploading Your Own Audio: Would you want to use a song or sound effect not found in the library? You have the option to upload videos with your own audio. This allows for greater creative freedom and personalization.

How to Search Instagram’s Built-in Music Library

The built-in music library is a treasure trove of audio options. Here’s how to navigate it effectively:

  • Accessing the Music Library: Open the Instagram app and navigate to the Reels creation screen. Swipe right from the home screen or tap the “+” icon and select “Reel.”
  • Open the Music Tool: On the Reels creation screen, look for the music note icon at the top. This opens the music library.
  • Browsing Through the Options: Explore the various categories like “New Releases,” “Original audio” and “For you” to discover trending sounds and audio clips. You can also find them with the search box at the top.
  • Previewing Clips: Before selecting an audio clip, tap on it to preview a short snippet to ensure it aligns with your Reel’s concept. Tap “Done” at the top right of the screen when you’re satisfied.

How to Upload Your Own Audio

While the built-in library offers a vast selection, you might have a specific song or sound effect in mind that’s not available on Instagram. If that’s the case, you’ll have to put it in yourself.

Instagram previously had an import button in the Music editor that allowed you to import audio clips from your device, but they’ve removed it. Now, you have two options for uploading:

  • Use the microphone on your camera (Not Recommended): You can have the music playing while you record the reel you want to upload.
  • Use third-party apps: If the first option isn’t good enough, then you can try out some third-party apps like Inshot or Viva Video to incorporate the audio before you upload it.

Important Considerations for Uploading External Audio

  • Copyright Issues: Be mindful of copyright restrictions. Only upload audio clips that you have the legal right to use, or risk Instagram taking your video down.
  • Audio Quality: Ensure your uploaded audio clip is of good quality to avoid a distorted or muffled sound in your Reel. This is why the camera microphone option isn’t recommended.

Final Notes

Instagram’s music library is stocked with audio clips that can elevate your Reels and boost engagements. All it takes is one viral video for your account to go global, and your audio is a big part of that.

Follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way.

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Written By:
AUTHOR & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jessica is a consultant, researcher, and the editor-in-chief of the Buzzoid blog, who specializes in social media, marketing, and digital strategy. She is a graduate of Antioch College and earned her MBA at Boston College’s Carroll Graduate School of Management, specializing in STEM Management.

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