How to Add Music to Instagram Post: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Instagram isn’t just about stunning visuals anymore — adding music to your posts can be the secret sauce to capturing attention and boosting engagement. Whether you’re sharing a candid moment, a stylish photo, or a funny video, music adds mood, personality, and that extra flair. But how do you actually add music to an Instagram post? Let’s dive right in!
Understanding Instagram’s Music Feature
What is Instagram’s Music Library?
Instagram’s built-in music library offers millions of licensed tracks you can use in your stories, reels, and even some feed posts. From top chart hits to indie gems, there’s something for everyone.
Types of Instagram Posts You Can Add Music To
- Stories
- Reels
- Feed Posts (Photo and Video)
- Direct Messages (via story-like music messages)
- However, music cannot be added directly to standard carousel posts (multiple photos) — but don’t worry, we’ll share a workaround!
Preparing Your Post for Music
Choosing the Right Content for Music
Think about your post’s vibe — is it fun, emotional, energetic, or chill? Music should enhance your message, not confuse your audience.
Best Practices Before Adding Music
- High-quality visuals to match the music’s mood.
- Short and impactful content — especially for Reels.
- Clear theme: make sure music aligns with the story you’re telling.
How to Add Music to Instagram Feed Posts
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Music to Photo Posts
- Open Instagram and tap the “+” to create a post.
- Choose your photo and proceed to the editing page.
- After editing, tap “Next.”
- Look for the “Add Music” option on the caption screen.
- Search and select a song from Instagram’s library.
- Choose the clip (part of the song) you want.
- Hit “Done” and share!
How to Add Music to Video Posts
- Tap “+” and select “Post”.
- Upload your video.
- After trimming or editing, go to the caption screen.
- Tap “Add Music”.
- Pick a song, select the section, and publish!
How to Adjust Music Settings in Feed Posts
- Selecting the Perfect Clip: Use the slider to choose the exact part of the song. Aim for the catchiest 5-15 seconds that fit your content.
- Customizing Song Duration and Start Point: Instagram often allows you to set duration (up to 15 seconds). Choose the hook, chorus, or instrumental part.
Adding Music to Instagram Stories
Simple Steps to Add Music to Stories
- Open Stories and choose a photo or video.
- Tap the sticker icon at the top.
- Select “Music”.
- Browse or search for a song.
- Customize lyrics style, font, and colors (if applicable).
- Post!
Adding Lyrics and Visual Effects
Many songs offer auto-synced lyrics — great for singalongs or emphasis. Pick animated styles for extra punch!
How to Add Music to Instagram Reels
Why Music is Crucial for Reels
Music sets the tone, creates trends, and makes Reels shareable.
Step-by-Step Process for Adding Music to Reels
- Tap “+” and choose “Reel”.
- Record or upload clips.
- Tap the music note icon.
- Choose a song and adjust the part you want.
- Sync music with clips — preview before posting.
Syncing Music with Reel Clips
Use auto-sync or manually align clips with beats. Tools like beat markers help perfect timing.
Adding Music to Instagram Carousels
Is It Possible to Add Music to Carousel Posts?
Direct music addition isn’t supported (yet).
Workarounds to Add Music to Multi-Image Posts
- Turn images into a video slideshow using apps like Gemoo, InShot, or Canva, then upload as a video post.
- Add music to that video carousel substitute! (Gemoo simplifies this process with ready-to-use templates and seamless audio integration.)
How to Add Your Own Music to Instagram
Uploading Custom Audio Clips
Not natively possible unless used via Reels.
Alternative: Edit video with music externally using tools like Gemoo and upload as a video.
Using Third-Party Apps for Original Music
Apps like InShot, CapCut, or Gemoo let you mix and match custom audio before uploading. Gemoo’s screen recording and audio extraction features make it ideal for creators needing precise control.
Troubleshooting: Why Can’t I Add Music to My Post?
Common Problems and Solutions
- App not updated — update Instagram.
- Business accounts — limited music due to copyright.
- Music feature not available in region — try VPN or wait for updates.
Geo-Restrictions and Copyright Issues
Some music is blocked in specific countries. Always check song availability before finalizing.
Best Tips for Choosing the Right Music
- Match emotion with content.
- Follow current trends but keep it unique.
- Stay on-brand and consistent with your theme.
The Impact of Music on Engagement and Reach
Why Music Boosts Your Post Visibility
Music makes content memorable, encourages sharing, and leverages trending audio.
Case Studies: Music-Enhanced Posts Performance
Brands and influencers report higher reach and saves on music-backed posts.
Instagram Music Dos and Don’ts
- ✅ Use licensed music.
- ✅ Stay consistent with your brand.
- ❌ Avoid offensive lyrics.
- ❌ Don’t use copyrighted songs without permission in ads.
Tools and Apps to Enhance Your Music Posts
- Gemoo: Perfect for creating music-enhanced carousel substitutes, screen recordings, and custom audio edits.
- InShot, CapCut, Canva — for adding music to videos.
- LALAL.AI, Moises.ai — to extract or isolate vocals/instruments.
- AI tools — to find trending songs for your niche.
Conclusion
Adding music to Instagram posts is one of the easiest ways to stand out, connect emotionally, and ride the trend wave. For advanced editing or carousel workarounds, tools like Gemoo streamline the process while keeping your content professional. Now that you know the tricks, start creating posts that sing — literally!