Let’s face it: Instagram Reels are the new cool kids on the social media block. And like any popularity contest, there’s a secret ingredient that can catapult you from obscurity to viral stardom. That ingredient? Trending audio. But here’s the kicker – finding that perfect, trending sound isn’t as simple as picking the first catchy tune you hear.
It’s an art, a science, and sometimes, a bit of luck. So, let’s learn how to find trending audio on Instagram?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s set the stage. Instagram’s audio library is a vast ocean of sounds, ranging from chart-topping hits to quirky original snippets. As of 2024, over 100 million tracks are available in the Instagram music library, Which has a lot of potential for your next viral reel.
But here’s the thing: not all audio is created equal in the eyes (or ears) of the Instagram algorithm. Some sounds rise above the rest, becoming the trending audio everyone and their grandma uses. And that, my friends, is what we’re after.
You might be wondering, “Why should I bother with trending audio? Can’t I just use any old song?” Well, you could. But here’s why you shouldn’t:
In fact, Instagram’s algorithm tends to favor content that utilizes trending audio, increasing the likelihood of your Reels being featured on explore pages and gaining broader reach. That’s a compelling reason to jump on the trending audio bandwagon, wouldn’t you say?
Now, let’s get to the meat of the matter. How do you actually find these elusive trending sounds? Here are some tried-and-true methods:
The simplest way to spot trending audio is right in front of you as you scroll through your Reels feed. Instagram has made it easy by adding a small but significant visual cue:
This arrow is Instagram’s not-so-subtle hint that the sound is currently trending. It’s like a little neon sign saying, “Hey, this sound is hot right now!” When you spot one, you’ve struck audio gold.
The Explore page is Instagram’s way of showcasing what’s popular right now, making it a goldmine for trending audio:
This method is particularly effective because the Explore page is essentially a curated playlist of what’s hot. It’s like having a personal DJ for trending Instagram sounds.
Influencers and popular creators are often ahead of the curve when it comes to audio trends:
This approach is like having insider information. Influencers often have a knack for spotting (or even setting) trends before they go mainstream.
Sometimes, the most straightforward method is the most effective:
This method can lead you to curated collections of trending sounds, saving you time and effort.
Instagram itself provides a valuable resource for trend-hunters:
It is like getting a cheat sheet directly from Instagram. The @Creators account is dedicated to helping content creators succeed on the platform, making it an invaluable resource.
Instagram has a dedicated space for trending audio, though it’s not immediately obvious:
This library is regularly updated with the most popular sounds, giving you a one-stop-shop for trending audio.
For business accounts concerned about copyright issues:
This collection offers thousands of rights-cleared sounds, perfect for commercial content.
Here’s an interesting tidbit that could give you a serious edge in the Instagram Reels game: trends often start on TikTok before making their way to Instagram Reels. In fact, studies show that TikTok trends typically appear on Reels about 2-3 weeks later. It’s like having a crystal ball for Instagram trends if you know how to use it.
There are a few reasons why TikTok tends to be the trendsetter:
Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on where trends originate, let’s talk about how to use trending audio effectively:
Remember, using trending audio is just one piece of the puzzle. Content is still king, and no amount of trendy music can save a poorly conceived Reel.
Here’s a controversial opinion: sometimes, it’s better not to use trending audio. Gasp! I know it sounds like social media blasphemy. But hear me out. If you’re a brand with a distinct voice or a creator with a unique style, constantly chasing trends might dilute your identity.
In these cases, creating original audio or using lesser-known tracks that align with your brand might be more beneficial in the long run.
Moreover, when a trend makes its way from TikTok to Instagram, it might already be on its way out. Sometimes, bucking the trend and doing something completely different can make you stand out more.
As we wrap up, let’s gaze into our crystal ball. What does the future hold for audio on Instagram?
The audio landscape on Instagram is evolving, and it will be crucial for content creators to stay informed about these changes. By keeping an eye on TikTok and understanding the cross-platform trend cycle, you can stay ahead of the curve and create Reels that resonate with your audience.
Finding trending audio on Instagram isn’t just about following a set of steps. It’s about developing an ear for what resonates with your audience, staying attuned to the ever-changing social media landscape, and being willing to experiment. Remember, at the end of the day, authenticity is the most important trend to follow. Use trending audio to amplify your message, not as a crutch to prop up lackluster content. So go forth, find that perfect sound, and create some Reels magic. Who knows? Your next post might just be the one that sets the trend.
Trending audio on Instagram can change daily, but some popular sounds may remain trending for weeks or even months.
Due to copyright restrictions, not all songs are available for use in Reels. Instagram provides a library of licensed music and sounds for users.
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Communication was beyond great, his understanding of our vision was phenomenal, and instead of needing babysitting like the other agencies we worked with, he was not only completely dependable but also gave us sound suggestions on how to get better results, at the risk of us not needing him for the initial job we requested (absolute gem).
This has truly been the first time we worked with someone outside of our business that quickly grasped our vision, and that I could completely forget about and would still deliver above expectations.
I honestly can’t wait to work in many more projects together!
Disclaimer
*The information this blog provides is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as financial or professional advice. The information may not reflect current developments and may be changed or updated without notice. Any opinions expressed on this blog are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the author’s employer or any other organization. You should not act or rely on any information contained in this blog without first seeking the advice of a professional. No representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this blog. The author and affiliated parties assume no liability for any errors or omissions.
