Instagram Reels how-to
How to add music to Instagram Reels (and why it gets muted)
Short answer
In the Reels camera, tap Music in the tool menu, search Instagram's library, choose the part of the song to play and, if lyrics are available, style them. Some accounts and regions don't get the full licensed library (business accounts often see fewer songs); use the Sound Collection instead. If music on a posted Reel is muted, you can replace it once.
Checked against: Instagram app for iPhone and Android, October 2026.
Method 1: Add a song
Open Music
When recording a reel, tap Music in the tool menu on the left.
Pick the song and part
Search for a song, choose which part plays, and customize how lyrics show if they're available.
Balance with your voice
In the editor, lower the music volume so speech stays clear.
Method 2: If music is missing or muted
Use the Sound Collection
If the Licensed Music Library isn't available for your account type or region, add audio from Instagram's Sound Collection.
Replace muted audio
On a muted Reel, tap Audio unavailable > Replace audio and pick another track (once).
If it doesn't work
| What you see | Fix |
|---|---|
| Music sticker not showing | Instagram says it isn't available to everyone; update the app. |
| Popular songs missing | Licensed music may not be available for your account type or country; use the Sound Collection. |
| Reel muted after posting | Rights changed or the owner blocked it; replace the audio. |
Questions people ask
Why can't I add music to my Instagram Reel?
The music sticker or library may not be available for your account type, region or app version.
Can business accounts use popular songs on Reels?
Often not; Instagram ties library access to account type. Use the Sound Collection.
Can I add my own music?
Yes. Add it to the video in an editor before uploading, or use your own original audio.
More Instagram Reels guides
Sources and how we checked
- Instagram Help: Add music, effects and more to your reel (checked 2026-10-05)
- Instagram Help: Problems with audio on Instagram (checked 2026-10-05)
Reviewed October 5, 2026 by the Koldflux team. Each step is compared with Instagram Reels's own documentation (linked above) and with the top search results for this task; where they disagree, the maker's documentation wins. Steps without a source link follow the menu names that several current guides agree on.