Can’t Use Music on Instagram Story? Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to creating engaging content on Instagram, you can use various music tracks, but the sound that’s allowed on the platform is limited. This is mainly due to the 30-second limit for stories, which doesn’t allow for the use of music videos or audio recordings that take more than 30 seconds.
Why is there a limit on music on Instagram Stories?
The 30-second limit was introduced to help manage the amount of data being sent by the app, which was significantly increasing in 2018. According to Instagram, this limit is not just about data, but also about preventing issues with data sharing and social media overload.
Can you still use music on Instagram Stories?
Yes, you can still use music on Instagram Stories, but there are some limitations to consider. You can use:
- Audio tracks: Instagram allows you to add a pre-recorded audio track to your story, which can be up to 1 minute and 30 seconds long. This audio track should be generated on a non-vanishing device, not a mobile device.
- Songs in the background: If you’re using a song that has a similar beat or rhythm to the one you’re playing, you can use it as background music in your story. However, you cannot use copyrighted music without obtaining permission from the copyright holder.
- Audio recordings: You can also record an audio recording of yourself talking, singing, or other sound effects using a device with a microphone.
Key points to remember:
- Instagram allows you to use audio tracks up to 1 minute and 30 seconds long.
- If you’re using a song that has a similar beat or rhythm to the one you’re playing, you can use it as background music in your story.
- You cannot use copyrighted music without obtaining permission from the copyright holder.
- You cannot use music that’s taken down by copyright holders.
How to find and use music on Instagram
Here are some ways to find and use music on Instagram:
- Music libraries: Instagram has a built-in music library that you can access to find and use royalty-free music. You can search for music using keywords, and you’ll be able to browse through a variety of options.
- Free music websites: There are many free music websites that offer a wide range of royalty-free music. Some popular options include Free Music Archive, Audio Library, and Bensound.
- Royalty-free music marketplaces: Instagram also has a marketplace for royalty-free music, where you can find and purchase tracks from creators like Epidemic Sound and Incompetech.
What about music videos?
As for music videos, Instagram has a limit on the number of times you can post a video with music. According to Instagram, you can post a video with music up to 5 times, but if you post a video with music and it goes over the limit, the music won’t play.
Can I use music in a post and then add another one later?
Unfortunately, no, you cannot use music in a post and then add another one later. Instagram won’t recognize the additional audio track, and it won’t play on the second post.
Best practices for using music on Instagram
Here are some best practices for using music on Instagram:
- Use royalty-free music: Always choose royalty-free music to avoid any copyright issues.
- Use a royalty-free music track: Select a track that’s specifically designed for use in Instagram stories and is free to use.
- Use a royalty-free music library: Consider using a music library that offers royalty-free music, as it can save you time and money.
- Keep your audio to a minimum: Try to keep your audio to a minimum, so that it’s not distracting from the content of your story.
Conclusion
While there are limitations to using music on Instagram Stories, there are still many ways to use music to enhance your content. By understanding the rules and guidelines, you can create engaging and creative stories that are sure to delight your audience. Happy creating!