Wondering how to add your own music to Instagram Story and make your content more engaging and personal? While Instagram offers built-in music tools, many users want to add custom songs, original audio, or music not found in the app’s library. This article breaks down all the available methods—including native features and third-party tools—so you can legally share the perfect soundtrack for your Story, whether you're a creator, business, or casual user.


Understanding Instagram Story Music Options

Instagram Stories offer a dynamic way to connect with your audience, and music plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional and visual impact of your content. Whether you're looking to use popular tracks or upload your own sound, understanding the available music options will help you make the most out of your stories.

Instagram Music Sticker

The Instagram Music Sticker is the most straightforward way to add music to your stories. When creating a story, you can tap on the sticker icon and select “Music” to access Instagram’s built-in music library. This library includes a wide range of popular songs organized by genre, mood, and popularity.

You can preview a song and choose a specific segment (up to 15 seconds) to match your story. Lyrics are often available and can be styled and animated in various ways to complement your visuals.

However, the availability of the music sticker and the songs it offers can vary depending on your location and account type. For example, some business accounts may have limited access due to copyright restrictions.

Sharing Music from Streaming Apps

Instagram allows you to share music directly from popular streaming apps like Spotify, SoundCloud, and Shazam. These integrations enable users to post a song to their Stories with album artwork, a link to listen on the platform, and background audio.

  • Spotify: Tap the share button on any song, select “Instagram Stories,” and it will automatically open Instagram with the selected track.
  • SoundCloud: Similar sharing functionality allows you to post tracks directly to your story.
  • Shazam: After identifying a song, you can share it to Instagram Stories, complete with album art and a direct link.

Note that while these methods let you showcase songs, they do not always embed the full audio into the story itself for others to hear.

Recording with Background Music

An easy workaround for using your own music is to play it in the background while recording your story. This method captures the audio in real-time, allowing you to feature any music you want — even if it's not available in Instagram’s library.

This method is often used for personal audio or to include songs that Instagram doesn't offer due to licensing issues. However, it may result in lower sound quality and is subject to Instagram’s automatic copyright detection.

Uploading Custom or Original Audio

Instagram doesn’t currently offer a native way to upload custom audio files directly, but there are workarounds:

  • Third-Party Editing Apps: Use video editing tools like InShot, CapCut, or Adobe Premiere Rush to add your own music or voiceover to a video before uploading it to Instagram Stories.
  • Descript and Audio Editors: Platforms like Descript allow you to create and edit original audio, then export and upload the video to Instagram.

Once edited, you simply upload the video to your Story like any normal media. This method gives you full control over the audio content, duration, and placement.

When using music in Instagram Stories — especially personal or uploaded audio — it's important to consider copyright laws. Instagram may remove stories that contain unauthorized music or limit their visibility. To avoid this:

  • Use royalty-free or licensed music
  • Add your own original compositions or spoken content
  • Consider platforms like Epidemic Sound or AudioJungle for legal background music options

Business Account Limitations

Instagram imposes stricter usage rules on business accounts. In many cases, popular music tracks are unavailable to business profiles due to licensing restrictions. Instead, business users get access to a limited library of royalty-free tracks.

To access the full music catalog, some users consider switching to a creator account, which offers more flexibility while still providing access to insights and monetization features.

Understanding these music options and their respective limitations is key to crafting engaging, legal, and seamless Instagram Stories that resonate with your audience.

Method 1: Using Instagram’s Built-in Music Sticker

The most direct way to add music to your Instagram Story is by using the platform’s native music sticker feature. This method is intuitive and widely accessible to personal and creator accounts in supported regions.

Steps:

  1. Open the Instagram app and swipe right to create a new Story.
  2. Capture or upload your photo or video content.
  3. Tap the sticker icon at the top of the screen and select the “Music” sticker.
  4. Search for a song using the search bar or browse by mood, genre, or popularity.
  5. Select the song and choose the segment (up to 15 seconds) you want to use.
  6. Customize the sticker style (lyrics, album cover, or text) and place it on your Story.

Keep in mind, business accounts may have limited access to the full music library due to licensing restrictions.

Method 2: Sharing from Music Streaming Platforms (Spotify, SoundCloud, Apple Music)

Instagram allows integration with several streaming services, making it easy to share music directly from those apps to your Story. Though this doesn’t embed the music in the background of your media, it shares a clickable link with song info and album art.

Spotify:

  1. Open Spotify and play the song you want to share.
  2. Tap the three dots > “Share” > “Instagram Stories.”
  3. Instagram opens with the song’s artwork and a link to listen on Spotify.
  4. Post the Story with additional text, stickers, or GIFs as needed.

SoundCloud:

  1. Open the SoundCloud app and find your desired track.
  2. Tap the share icon and select “Share to Instagram Stories.”
  3. The Story will show the album art and include a link to listen on SoundCloud.

Apple Music:

  1. Open Apple Music and select the song.
  2. Tap the three dots > “Share Song” > choose Instagram.
  3. Customize your Story before sharing.

Method 3: Recording with Background Music

One of the simplest workarounds for adding your own music is to play it on another device while recording your Story.

How to Do It:

  1. Play the desired song on a speaker or another phone.
  2. Open Instagram and begin recording your Story with the music in the background.
  3. The app will capture both your video and the ambient audio playing.

This method is ideal for adding songs that aren’t available on Instagram’s music library or for using personal audio clips. Note that audio quality may vary and this approach doesn’t offer editing options like trimming or volume control.

Method 4: Using Third-Party Video Editing Apps

Apps like InShot, CapCut, Splice, and Adobe Premiere Rush allow more control over audio editing and can be used to add music before uploading to Instagram.

Steps:

  1. Use a third-party app to combine your video and music.
  2. Trim and adjust audio timing and volume as needed.
  3. Export the final video file to your device.
  4. Open Instagram and upload the edited video to your Story.

This method is especially useful for creators who want to use original soundtracks, maintain audio consistency, or add multiple layers of audio.

Method 5: Adding Personal Audio or Voiceovers

If you have your own audio file (like a song or voiceover), you can integrate it into your Story using editing tools or by recording in an environment where the audio plays.

Using Editing Tools:

  1. Import your media and audio file into a video editor.
  2. Sync and adjust the audio placement.
  3. Export and upload the video to your Instagram Story.

This is ideal for musicians, podcasters, or brands wanting to share original content. Be sure to adhere to Instagram’s audio guidelines to avoid takedowns.

Method 6: Using Original Recordings or Live Performances

Instagram values authenticity, and sharing original music or recordings can resonate strongly with audiences.

How to Use:

  1. Record a live performance or original sound using Instagram’s camera or another recording app.
  2. Upload the video directly to your Story.
  3. Optionally, enhance with filters, stickers, or captions.

This method is perfect for artists and creators who want to showcase their talents or deliver a personal message. Just be mindful of ambient noise and audio clarity when recording.

When adding music—especially your own or from external sources—ensure you have the rights to use the content. Instagram may remove Stories that violate copyright rules, especially for business accounts or users in regions with strict licensing laws.

For original content, consider registering your music with a rights management organization to protect it and ensure compliance when sharing.

Best Practices

  • Always preview your Story before posting to check audio levels and syncing.
  • For higher-quality sound, use editing apps before uploading.
  • Avoid copyrighted music unless you have permission or use royalty-free tracks.
  • Keep audio relevant and engaging for your audience.

    Step-by-Step Process

Adding Music Directly Through Instagram

  1. Open the Instagram App
    Launch the Instagram app on your mobile device and swipe right from your feed or tap the "+" icon to create a new Story.

  2. Capture or Upload Your Content
    Record a new video, take a photo, or upload existing media from your gallery.

  3. Tap the Sticker Icon
    Once in the Story editing screen, tap the sticker icon (a square smiley face) at the top of the screen.

  4. Select the “Music” Sticker
    Tap on the “Music” sticker from the sticker menu. This opens Instagram’s music library.

  5. Search and Choose a Track
    Use the search bar to find a specific song or browse by mood, genre, or trending. Tap on a song to preview it.

  6. Customize the Music Clip
    Drag the slider to select the part of the song you want to play. Instagram allows up to 15 seconds of music per Story segment.

  7. Adjust the Music Sticker Appearance
    Choose from different display styles for lyrics or album art. Place the sticker anywhere on your Story.

  8. Post Your Story
    Tap “Your Story” or “Close Friends” to share it. The selected music will play with your Story.

Sharing Music from Spotify

  1. Open the Spotify App
    Find the song, album, or playlist you want to share.

  2. Tap the Share Icon
    Select “Share” and choose “Instagram Stories” from the list of platforms.

  3. Instagram Opens Automatically
    Instagram will open with the song’s cover art as a Story draft.

  4. Customize and Share
    Add text, stickers, or effects before posting. Note: this method shares a link to Spotify; the music won’t play directly in your Story.

Sharing Songs from SoundCloud

  1. Launch the SoundCloud App
    Navigate to the track you want to share.

  2. Tap the Share Button
    Select “Share to Instagram Stories.”

  3. Instagram Integration
    Similar to Spotify, the album art and a link to the track will appear in a Story draft.

  4. Enhance and Publish
    Customize your Story as desired and post it. Viewers can tap the link to listen on SoundCloud.

Using Shazam to Share Music

  1. Open the Shazam App
    Use Shazam to identify a song playing around you.

  2. View the Song’s Details
    Once recognized, tap the three-dot menu or share icon.

  3. Select “Share to Instagram Stories”
    This generates a Story draft on Instagram with artwork and a Shazam link.

  4. Add Effects and Share
    Customize the Story and post. Viewers can open Shazam for full song playback.

Recording a Story with Background Music

  1. Play Music on Your Device
    Open any music app and play the desired song.

  2. Open Instagram and Start Recording
    With the music playing in the background, record your Story using the Instagram camera.

  3. Post the Story
    The music will be recorded as part of the video. This method is ideal for adding songs not available in Instagram’s library.

Adding Personal or Original Audio

  1. Create or Edit Audio Using a Third-Party App
    Use apps like InShot, CapCut, or Descript to edit your video and add your own audio or music.

  2. Export the Video with Audio Included
    Save the edited video to your device.

  3. Upload to Instagram Stories
    Open Instagram and upload the video from your gallery. The audio will play automatically with the video.

Using Third-Party Apps to Add Music

  1. Choose a Video Editing App
    Download an app that allows audio integration like InShot, Canva, or Adobe Premiere Rush.

  2. Import Your Video and Add Music
    Use the app’s features to add licensed or custom music.

  3. Save and Upload to Instagram
    Export the final video and upload it as a Story.

  4. Ensure Music Rights Compliance
    Make sure the music used is royalty-free or owned by you to avoid Instagram muting your Story.

Uploading Music as an Instagram Story Highlight

  1. Create a Story with Music (Any Method)
    Use any of the above steps to create a musically enhanced Story.

  2. Add to Highlights
    After posting, tap your Story and select “Highlight.” Choose an existing Highlight or create a new one.

  3. Permanent Music Display
    This keeps your musical Story viewable beyond the standard 24-hour window.

    Tips for Best Results

When adding music to your Instagram Stories, following a few best practices can significantly improve the overall impact and viewer engagement. Here are essential tips to ensure your Stories sound as good as they look.

Choose the Right Music for the Mood

The tone and genre of the music should match the content of your Story. For example, upbeat tracks work well for exciting announcements or behind-the-scenes footage, while mellow or acoustic tracks may suit reflective or emotional content. Think of your Story as a mini-film—music plays a critical role in setting the emotional tone.

Pay Attention to Timing and Placement

Instagram allows you to select the specific part of the song you want to use. Choose a segment that aligns well with the visuals in your Story. If there's dialogue or narration, make sure the background music doesn't overpower it. Use Instagram’s volume adjustment tools to balance music and voice effectively.

Additionally, keep in mind that the music sticker lets you choose clips between 5 to 15 seconds. Make those seconds count by selecting the most impactful part of the song.

Use Captions and Lyrics Strategically

If you're using the music sticker, Instagram often provides the option to display lyrics or animated captions. This not only makes your Story more engaging but also helps communicate your message even when viewers are watching without sound. Be sure the text doesn’t obstruct key visuals or cover important parts of the screen.

Test Audio Before Publishing

Always preview your Story with the music before posting. This helps you catch any volume issues, awkward timing, or mismatches between visuals and audio. Doing a quick playback ensures a polished final product.

While Instagram's music library includes licensed tracks, music added via third-party apps or personal uploads can raise copyright issues. Avoid using commercial music without rights if you're using a business account, as these are subject to stricter copyright enforcement. Instead, consider royalty-free music or tracks from Instagram’s library that are cleared for use.

Optimize for Business Accounts

Business accounts often have limited access to popular music due to licensing restrictions. To work around this, use royalty-free tracks, original audio, or collaborate with musicians and creators who can provide licensed content. Alternatively, switch to a Creator account to expand your music options, if appropriate for your brand.

Sync Music with Visual Edits

If you're editing your Stories with third-party apps like InShot, Descript, or CapCut, align your transitions or cuts with beats in the music. This creates a more professional and engaging viewing experience. Some apps offer beat-matching features that make syncing easier.

Keep Accessibility in Mind

Not all users watch Stories with sound. Including captions, lyrics, or text overlays ensures your message reaches everyone. This also improves engagement metrics, as Stories with visual cues tend to perform better across diverse audiences.

Refresh Your Music Choices Regularly

Instagram's music library is regularly updated with new tracks and trending audio. Stay current by exploring the "For You" or "Trending" tabs within the music sticker. Using fresh or trending sounds can increase your Story’s visibility through higher engagement and algorithmic boosts.

Utilize Original Audio for Branding

Creating your own sounds or voiceovers can help establish a unique brand identity. When you use original audio, your followers can tap on the audio to see other content using it, potentially increasing your reach. Make sure to label your audio clearly so it’s recognizable and searchable.

By following these tips, you can elevate your Instagram Stories with music that enhances your message, resonates with your audience, and complies with platform guidelines.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Adding music to Instagram Stories can occasionally present challenges. Below are some of the most common issues users encounter, along with practical troubleshooting steps and alternative solutions.

Regional Restrictions

One of the most widespread issues users face is the unavailability of the Instagram Music feature in certain regions.

Why It Happens:
Instagram’s music feature is subject to licensing agreements, which vary from country to country. If your region doesn’t have access to Instagram’s music library, the music sticker may not appear at all.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  • Confirm whether your country supports Instagram Music by checking Instagram’s official help documentation or forums.
  • Use a VPN to temporarily set your location to a region where the feature is available. Note that this may violate Instagram’s terms of service and could risk account restrictions.
  • Consider alternative methods such as uploading a video with music already embedded using a third-party editing app.

Business Account Limitations

Business accounts often have restricted access to copyrighted music due to licensing and usage policies.

Why It Happens:
Instagram’s agreements with music publishers limit the use of certain tracks for commercial purposes, which includes business accounts.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  • Switch to a Creator account if your content is more personal or influencer-oriented. Creator accounts often have access to a broader music library.
  • Use royalty-free or licensed music from platforms like Epidemic Sound or Artlist, then upload the video with audio pre-integrated.
  • Add original audio or voiceovers instead of relying on the Instagram music library.

Technical Difficulties

Sometimes, users encounter bugs or glitches that prevent them from adding music, even when the feature should be available.

Common Issues:

  • Music sticker not showing up
  • App crashes when music is added
  • Audio doesn’t play in the final story

Troubleshooting Steps:

  • Ensure your Instagram app is updated to the latest version.
  • Clear the app cache (available on Android) or reinstall the app to resolve temporary glitches.
  • Restart your phone to refresh system memory and app performance.
  • Log out and log back in to your Instagram account.
  • Try accessing Instagram from another device to determine whether the issue is device-specific.

Alternative Solutions

If the in-app options aren't working, there are several reliable alternatives for adding music to your stories.

Use Third-Party Editing Apps:
Apps like InShot, CapCut, and Adobe Premiere Rush allow you to add custom audio tracks or music files to your videos before uploading them to Instagram.

Steps:

  1. Edit your video with music in the third-party app.
  2. Export the video to your device.
  3. Open Instagram and upload the edited video as a Story.

Add Music from Music Streaming Apps:
Spotify, SoundCloud, and Shazam offer built-in features for sharing music directly to Instagram Stories. While these don’t embed the audio into your story, they display music info and link viewers to the track.

Use Original Audio:
Record your story with music playing in the background. This is a simple workaround if you want to include a specific song that isn’t available through Instagram’s music library.

Best Practices:

  • Ensure the music volume is clear and not distorted.
  • Use a high-quality external speaker during recording for better sound capture.

By understanding these common issues and their solutions, users can continue to create engaging Instagram Stories with music, even when Instagram’s built-in tools fall short.

Adding your own music to an Instagram Story is easier than you think—with native features and creative workarounds available for every type of user. Whether you're using the built-in music sticker, editing custom audio in third-party apps, or recording live performances, the key is to ensure copyright compliance and match your music to your message. Ready to amplify your Stories? Start experimenting today and share your sound with the world.