TikTok has revolutionized how we consume and create short-form video content. A crucial element of any engaging TikTok video is its soundtrack. The right song can elevate your video from simple to viral, capturing attention and expressing the desired mood. This guide will walk you through every step of adding music to your TikTok videos, ensuring you master the art of audio integration.
Understanding TikTok’s Music Library and Licensing
Before diving into the technicalities, it’s important to understand how TikTok handles music. TikTok has licensing agreements with major record labels and independent artists, providing users with a vast library of songs to choose from. These agreements allow users to incorporate music into their videos without infringing on copyright.
However, these agreements also come with some limitations. For example, business accounts often have access to a different, more limited music library than personal accounts due to commercial usage rights. Understanding these limitations is key to avoiding potential copyright issues. Always be aware of TikTok’s community guidelines and terms of service regarding music usage.
The available music library on TikTok varies based on your geographic location. Licensing agreements differ from country to country, meaning a song available in one region might not be available in another. This is a common issue for travelers and creators targeting a global audience.
Adding Music Before Recording Your TikTok
One way to add music to your TikTok is before you even start recording. This approach allows you to create content perfectly synced to the beat and rhythm of your chosen song. This is particularly useful for dance challenges, lip-syncing videos, and any content where timing is crucial.
Searching for Music
To add music before recording, open the TikTok app and tap the “+” icon at the bottom of the screen to begin creating a new video. Before hitting the record button, look for the “Add sound” option at the top of the screen. Tap it to access TikTok’s music library.
You can search for music in several ways. The “For You” section presents trending songs and tracks curated by TikTok’s algorithm. Use the search bar at the top to find specific songs, artists, or genres. TikTok also organizes music into playlists based on themes, moods, and popular trends. Explore these playlists to discover new and relevant music.
TikTok’s search function is surprisingly robust. You can use keywords related to the song, artist, or even the mood you’re trying to convey. The algorithm also considers your past listening history and engagement to suggest relevant songs.
Selecting and Saving Your Song
Once you’ve found the perfect song, tap on it to preview it. This allows you to listen to a snippet of the song and ensure it’s the right fit for your video. If you like the song, you have two options: use it immediately or save it for later.
To use the song immediately, tap the red checkmark next to the song title. This will add the song to your video creation screen. To save the song for later, tap the “Add to Favorites” icon (a flag or bookmark icon). This allows you to easily access the song later without having to search for it again.
Saving songs to your favorites is a great way to build a personal music library within TikTok. This saves you time and ensures you always have a collection of go-to tracks for your videos. To access your saved songs, go to the “Add sound” screen and look for the “Favorites” tab.
Adjusting the Music Clip
After selecting a song, you can adjust the portion of the song you want to use in your video. TikTok allows you to trim the song to highlight specific sections, like the chorus or a catchy intro. This is crucial for creating impactful videos that grab viewers’ attention quickly.
To adjust the music clip, look for the “scissors” icon or a similar option that allows you to edit the song’s starting point and duration. Drag the waveform to select the desired section of the song. Experiment with different sections to find the perfect fit for your video. Selecting the right part of the song can dramatically improve your video’s engagement.
Remember that you can only use a limited portion of the song, typically around 15-60 seconds, depending on the length of your video. Choose wisely and focus on the most engaging parts of the track.
Adding Music After Recording Your TikTok
Adding music after recording offers more flexibility, especially if you want to create a video first and then find the perfect soundtrack to match its vibe. This method is also useful for adding voiceovers or other audio elements in addition to the music.
Accessing the Music Library Post-Recording
Record your video as usual. Once you’re done recording, tap the checkmark icon to proceed to the editing screen. On this screen, you’ll find various editing options, including the ability to add music. Look for the “Sound” icon or an option labeled “Add sound.”
Tapping this option will take you to the same music library you accessed when adding music before recording. You can search for songs, browse playlists, and access your saved favorites.
The post-recording method allows you to sync the music to your video more precisely. You can watch your video while selecting the music, ensuring the song complements the visuals perfectly.
Adjusting Music Volume
Once you’ve added music after recording, you’ll notice a volume control option. This is crucial for balancing the music with any other audio in your video, such as your voice or ambient sounds. You don’t want the music to drown out your voiceover or any important sounds in the video.
Tap the volume control option to adjust the levels of both the “Original sound” (the sound recorded during your video) and the “Added sound” (the music you’ve added). Adjust the sliders to find the perfect balance. It’s generally recommended to keep the music slightly lower than your original sound if you’re speaking in the video.
Pay close attention to the audio levels as you adjust them. Use headphones to get a more accurate sense of the sound balance. You may need to experiment with different levels to find the optimal settings.
Adding Voiceovers and Other Audio
In addition to adding music, you can also add voiceovers or other audio effects to your TikTok videos. This can add another layer of depth and personality to your content. TikTok offers a built-in voiceover feature that allows you to record your voice directly within the app.
To add a voiceover, look for the “Voiceover” option on the editing screen. Tap it to start recording your voice. You can record voiceovers for the entire video or just specific sections. You can also adjust the volume of the voiceover to ensure it’s balanced with the music and original sound.
Experiment with different audio effects to enhance your videos. TikTok offers a variety of effects, such as reverb, echo, and pitch changes. Use these effects sparingly and creatively to add a unique touch to your content.
Troubleshooting Music Issues on TikTok
Sometimes, you might encounter issues when adding music to your TikTok videos. These issues can range from songs not being available to copyright restrictions. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
Song Not Available
As mentioned earlier, music availability varies by region due to licensing agreements. If a song is not available in your region, you won’t be able to use it in your TikTok video. Unfortunately, there’s no workaround for this limitation other than using a different song.
Another reason a song might not be available is if it has been removed from TikTok’s library due to copyright issues or other reasons. In this case, you’ll need to find an alternative song.
If you’re sure the song should be available in your region, try clearing TikTok’s cache and data. This can sometimes resolve issues with the app’s music library. To do this, go to your phone’s settings, find the TikTok app, and clear its cache and data.
Copyright Restrictions
TikTok has strict copyright policies, and if you use copyrighted music without permission, your video may be muted or removed. While TikTok’s licensing agreements cover most songs in its library, there are still some cases where you might encounter copyright issues.
If your video is muted due to copyright restrictions, you can try disputing the claim. TikTok will review your dispute and determine whether the claim is valid. However, disputing a claim can be a lengthy process, and there’s no guarantee it will be successful.
The best way to avoid copyright issues is to use music from TikTok’s library or to obtain permission to use copyrighted music from the copyright holder. There are also royalty-free music libraries that offer music you can use without paying royalties.
Audio Sync Issues
Sometimes, the music in your TikTok video might not be perfectly synchronized with the visuals. This can be caused by various factors, such as network issues or problems with your device’s processing power.
To fix audio sync issues, try closing and reopening the TikTok app. You can also try restarting your device. If the problem persists, try recording your video again.
When recording your video, make sure you have a stable internet connection. A weak connection can cause delays in the audio and video synchronization.
Business Account Limitations
If you have a business account on TikTok, you may have access to a limited music library compared to personal accounts. This is because business accounts are subject to different licensing agreements due to commercial usage rights.
If you need access to a wider range of music, you can switch back to a personal account. However, keep in mind that business accounts offer other features that might be beneficial for your business, such as analytics and advertising options.
Consider using royalty-free music libraries if you need music for commercial purposes and don’t want to switch to a personal account. These libraries offer music that you can use without paying royalties, even for commercial projects.
Tips for Choosing the Right Music
Choosing the right music is essential for creating engaging and successful TikTok videos. The music should complement the visuals, enhance the mood, and appeal to your target audience. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect soundtrack for your TikTok videos:
Consider Your Target Audience
Think about who you’re trying to reach with your video. What kind of music do they enjoy? What are their interests? Choosing music that resonates with your target audience can significantly increase your video’s engagement.
Research trending music within your target demographic. Pay attention to the songs that are popular on TikTok and other social media platforms. Use this information to inform your music selection.
Match the Mood and Tone
The music should match the mood and tone of your video. If you’re creating a funny video, choose upbeat and lighthearted music. If you’re creating a sad or emotional video, choose music that reflects those emotions.
Consider the overall message you’re trying to convey with your video. The music should support and enhance that message. Don’t choose music that clashes with the tone or message of your video.
Use Trending Sounds
Using trending sounds can significantly increase your video’s visibility and reach. When a song is trending on TikTok, videos that use that song are more likely to be discovered by other users.
Keep an eye on the trending sounds on TikTok. You can find trending sounds on the “For You” page or in the “Discover” section. Use these sounds in your videos to increase their chances of going viral.
Experiment and Be Creative
Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. TikTok is all about creativity, so don’t limit yourself to the same old songs and genres. Explore different types of music and see what works best for your videos.
Try using unexpected or unconventional music choices. Sometimes, the most memorable videos are those that use music in a surprising way. Be creative and have fun with it.
Choosing the right music for your TikTok videos is an art form. With practice and experimentation, you’ll develop a sense for what works and what doesn’t. Remember, the music is just as important as the visuals, so take your time and choose wisely.
How do I find trending music on TikTok to use in my videos?
TikTok has a dedicated “For You” page algorithm that learns your preferences and shows you trending content, including sounds and music. Pay attention to the sounds that appear frequently in your feed, especially those with an upward-pointing arrow indicating they are trending. You can also explore the “Discover” page, which showcases trending hashtags, challenges, and, consequently, popular sounds associated with them. Actively engaging with content you like helps refine the algorithm and shows you even more relevant trending music.
Furthermore, TikTok offers analytics if you have a Pro account. This analytics dashboard can give you insights into the music and sounds resonating with your target audience. Keep an eye on videos from other creators in your niche to see what sounds they are using and how well they are performing. Remember that trends are constantly evolving, so stay vigilant and adapt your sound choices accordingly to maximize your video’s reach and engagement.
Can I use my own original music on TikTok?
Yes, you can absolutely use your own original music on TikTok. To do this, you’ll need to upload your music to a music distribution platform like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby. These platforms will distribute your music to major streaming services, including TikTok, allowing it to be available for other users to discover and use in their videos.
Alternatively, if you don’t want to use a distribution platform, you can directly add your original music to your videos while recording or editing within the TikTok app. This involves using the “Sounds” feature and then “Add a sound.” However, if you go this route, only you will be able to use the audio, and it won’t be available in the wider TikTok sound library for other creators to access.
How do I trim the music to fit a specific part of my TikTok video?
TikTok provides intuitive tools for trimming music to fit the specific parts of your video that you want to highlight. After selecting your desired sound, you’ll be presented with a waveform display of the song. You can then drag the start and end points on the waveform to choose the exact segment of the song that you want to include.
Experiment with different sections of the song to find the perfect fit for your video’s visuals and message. Consider the energy and tempo of the music when selecting the segment; a well-chosen segment can significantly enhance the overall impact of your TikTok video. You can also adjust the volume of the original sound and your own voiceover to create a balanced and engaging audio experience.
What are the copyright restrictions I should be aware of when using music on TikTok?
While TikTok has licensing agreements with many major record labels and publishers, it’s still crucial to understand copyright restrictions. Using music without proper authorization can potentially lead to your video being muted or even removed from the platform. Generally, the music available within the TikTok sound library is cleared for use within the app, as long as you are creating original content.
However, if you intend to use music outside of the TikTok sound library, such as in sponsored content or for commercial purposes, you may need to obtain explicit permission from the copyright holder. Ignoring copyright laws can result in legal issues and damage your reputation. Always prioritize using music from the TikTok library or securing the necessary licenses for external music to avoid any complications.
How can I add a voiceover to my TikTok video while using music?
TikTok makes it easy to add a voiceover to your video while also incorporating music. First, record or upload your video content. Next, add your desired music from the TikTok sound library. Before posting, you’ll see an option to adjust the volume levels of both the original sound and the selected music.
To add a voiceover, tap on the microphone icon within the editing tools. You can then record your voiceover directly over the video and adjust the volume levels of the music and voiceover to ensure a clear and balanced audio mix. This allows you to provide commentary, narration, or add a personal touch to your video while still using music to enhance the overall viewing experience.
What happens if my TikTok video gets muted due to copyright issues?
If your TikTok video is muted due to copyright issues, it means that TikTok has detected copyrighted music that you didn’t have the rights to use. You’ll typically receive a notification informing you of the issue. In most cases, TikTok will provide an option to replace the muted audio with music from their approved sound library.
Choosing a replacement song from the TikTok library will resolve the copyright issue and restore the sound to your video. If you believe the video was muted in error, you may have the option to dispute the claim. However, it is crucial to ensure that you have the necessary rights to use the music before filing a dispute, as incorrect claims can have consequences.
How can I use music to create a specific mood or feeling in my TikTok video?
Music is a powerful tool for evoking emotions and setting the tone of your TikTok video. To create a specific mood, carefully consider the genre, tempo, and lyrics of the music you choose. Upbeat and energetic music is often ideal for creating a sense of excitement and fun, while slower, more melancholic tunes can evoke feelings of sadness or nostalgia.
Additionally, think about how the music complements the visuals and content of your video. A well-chosen soundtrack can enhance the storytelling and create a more immersive experience for your viewers. Experiment with different musical styles to find the perfect match for your desired mood and message. Remember that the right music can significantly impact how your audience perceives and connects with your content.