Instagram Music: Everything You Need To Know

Understand Instagram Music, a feature that allows influencers to add licensed music tracks to their Instagram Stories and Reels, enhancing the content.

What is Instagram Music and how is it used?

Instagram Music is a feature within the Instagram app that allows users to add a musical overlay to their Stories. Users can search for songs, choose the perfect segment of a track, and overlay it onto their photo or video content before sharing. This feature enhances the storytelling aspect of Instagram, making posts more engaging and personal. It's a popular tool among influencers for creating a mood or theme, promoting music they enjoy, or simply making their content stand out.

For example, when posting a Story of a beach day, an influencer might add a summery tune to complement the visuals. This not only makes the Story more entertaining but can also help in expressing the influencer's personal brand.

Can Instagram Music impact the reach of your posts?

Yes, incorporating Instagram Music can impact the reach of your posts. Music can make content more engaging, which may increase the likelihood of viewers watching the Story until the end, sharing it, or taking other actions such as sending direct messages. This engagement can signal to Instagram's algorithm that the content is interesting, potentially increasing its reach. Additionally, when users search for a specific song on Instagram, Stories that use that song may appear in the search results, further extending reach.

For instance, if a new popular song is trending and an influencer uses it in their Story, the Story might appear in the search results when others look for that song, leading to increased visibility.

Are there any restrictions on using Instagram Music?

Yes, there are restrictions on using Instagram Music. Due to licensing agreements, some songs may not be available to all users or in all regions. Additionally, business accounts have a more limited selection of music than personal accounts due to different licensing terms. It's important for influencers to be aware of these restrictions to avoid any potential copyright issues or unexpected removal of content.

For example, an influencer with a business account might notice that certain tracks are unavailable to them that are accessible to personal accounts. This is a result of the licensing agreements Instagram has with music publishers and record labels.

Dos and Don'ts of Instagram Music

Do's

Do integrate music that resonates with your brand and content to create a cohesive narrative.
Do use trending songs to increase the discoverability of your posts and stories.
Do give credit to original artists and musicians when using their work to respect copyright laws.

Don'ts

Don't overlook the importance of music volume; ensure it complements your content without overpowering it.
Don't use music that could potentially alienate your audience due to explicit content or misaligned values.
Don't forget to stay updated with Instagram's music policies to avoid copyright infringement issues.

How to Add Music to Your Instagram Posts

1. Open the Instagram App

Launch the Instagram app on your mobile device.

2. Create a New Post

Tap on the plus icon at the bottom of the screen to create a new post.

3. Select a Photo or Video

Choose a photo or video from your device's gallery that you want to post on Instagram.

4. Tap on the Music Icon

Tap on the music icon located at the top of the screen.

5. Search for a Song

Use the search bar to find a specific song or browse through the available music categories.

6. Customize the Music

Trim the song to the desired length and adjust the volume using the provided tools.

7. Share Your Post

Add any additional captions or tags, and then tap on the "Share" button to post your content with music.

What Are Ideas for Instagram Music?

1. Collaborate with Musicians

If you want to enhance your Instagram music content, consider collaborating with musicians. This can involve featuring their music in your posts, creating joint content, or even hosting live performances on your Instagram account.

Feature a musician's song in your Instagram Stories
Create a collaborative music video with a musician
Host a live jam session with a musician on Instagram Live
Interview musicians and share their stories on your Instagram feed
Organize a virtual concert series with different musicians

2. Share Music Recommendations

One way to engage your audience with Instagram music is by sharing music recommendations. This can be done through regular posts or dedicated stories where you highlight your favorite songs, albums, or playlists.

Create themed playlists and share them with your followers
Highlight underrated or lesser-known musicians on your Instagram feed
Post about your favorite albums and explain why you love them
Ask your followers for their music recommendations and create a collaborative playlist
Share behind-the-scenes stories about your favorite musicians

3. Showcase Music-related Events

If you want to attract music enthusiasts on Instagram, consider showcasing music-related events. This can include concerts, music festivals, album releases, or even virtual events that your followers might be interested in.

Promote upcoming concerts and provide ticket information
Share highlights from music festivals you attend
Announce album releases and share snippets of the music
Host virtual music events, such as live DJ sets or online music workshops
Collaborate with event organizers to offer exclusive discounts or giveaways to your followers

4. Create Music-related Challenges

Engage your audience by creating music-related challenges on Instagram. These challenges can involve singing, dancing, or even creating original music content.

Start a singing challenge where your followers can showcase their vocal talents
Create a dance challenge and encourage your followers to participate
Challenge your audience to create their own music compositions and share them with you
Host a cover song challenge where your followers can showcase their musical skills
Collaborate with other Instagrammers to create joint music challenges

5. Provide Music-related Tips and Tutorials

Share your knowledge and expertise in music by providing tips and tutorials on Instagram. This can include instrument tutorials, vocal techniques, music production tips, or even songwriting advice.

Create short tutorials on playing different musical instruments
Share vocal warm-up exercises and techniques for aspiring singers
Offer tips on music production software and techniques
Provide songwriting prompts and tips for aspiring songwriters
Collaborate with music teachers or experts to offer exclusive tutorials on your Instagram account