How to Add Music to an Instagram Post

Instagram offers music controls for some photo posts, Stories, and Reels. The choices you see can differ by account, location, and post type. Start with Instagram’s own editor, then check whether the audio is permitted for your intended use.

Add music to a photo post

In the Instagram mobile app, create a Post and select a photo. Continue through the editing screens, then look for Add music before sharing. Choose a track from the available library, select the portion you want, and preview the post before tapping Share. Meta’s photo-post audio help describes this flow for Android and iPhone. If Add music is missing, the feature or track may not be available for that account, region, or post type; do not assume a third-party upload bypasses the restriction.

Add music to a Story or Reel

In a Story, look for the music sticker in the sticker tray and choose an available track. In a Reel, use the editor’s audio controls to choose music or add audio you have the right to use. Preview the mix before publishing. Instagram changes editor labels over time, so follow the controls shown in your current app rather than relying on a fixed button position.

Check the music rights for the post

Meta says its licensed music library is intended for personal, non-commercial use. Certain business accounts, post types, and regions may have restricted access. If you are making an ad or another commercial post, review the allowed options for that format. Meta says its Sound Collection can be used commercially in supported Reels, Stories, and ads; check the current terms and the chosen track.

A music file on your phone or a track shared from Spotify is not a license to embed it in your own video. Recording a song playing at an event can also raise rights issues. Meta’s copyright help specifically warns that buying a recording or capturing it yourself does not necessarily authorize posting it. If you use a third-party editor, make sure the music license covers both editing and the final Instagram post.

If a track is unavailable or the rights are unclear, choose music offered for your post type and use, use audio you genuinely control, or obtain the relevant permission before posting.