How to legally use music on Instagram?

Asked by: Newton Denesik  |  Last update: May 30, 2026
Score: 4.2/5 (1 votes)

To legally use music on Instagram, use tracks from Meta's Sound Collection for business accounts (royalty-free), create your own music, get direct licenses from rights holders, or use a separate royalty-free music service (like Soundstripe, Mubert, Bensound) that clears music for commercial use, as using popular songs from Spotify or personal uploads often leads to copyright strikes, especially on business accounts.

How to use copyrighted music on Instagram legally?

Stay legal: Either create your own music, get permission from the rights holder, or use royalty-free/licensed music services. Pro tip: For cross-platform content, royalty-free libraries (like Soundstripe) are the safest, simplest option.

Can I use 20 seconds of copyrighted music on Instagram?

According to this source, even a brief use of copyrighted material without permission can be an infringement. To avoid these issues, it's encouraged to explore royalty-free music or copyright-free music alternatives, especially when looking to add background music to your Instagram posts or Instagram reels.

What music can I use on Instagram without copyright?

The top 10 royalty free songs for Instagram

  • 1. “ Astro Jetson” by Mikey Geiger.
  • 2. “ Back To You” by Daniel King.
  • 3. “ Thank You” by Demure.
  • 4. “ Presence” by Mikey Geiger.
  • 6. “ Distant Shore” by Tide Electric.
  • 7. “ I Just Wanna Luv U” by BRASKO.
  • 8. “ Simple Song” by Fantoms.
  • 9. “ Heroes” by Noah Smith.

How to avoid copyright on Instagram audio?

Stick to music from Instagram's business library, reputable royalty-free sources, or your own original tracks to avoid takedowns and legal headaches. Never use copyrighted tracks without permission-even for “short clips” or background audio-unless you have written consent or a paid licence from the rights holder.

Instagram Copyright Rules for Music - Tutorial by REAL LAWYER

30 related questions found

How do influencers use copyrighted music?

Understanding Copyright and Licensed Music

To avoid copyright infringement, influencers should obtain licenses or use royalty-free music from a Music Library. Music licensing platforms, like Collabhouse, offer a Music Library where influencers can find original, licensed music for their content.

Can you use copyrighted music if you give credit?

Generally, to use the sound recordings or musical works of another artist, you must: Use a work that is already in the public domain. Get permission from the copyright holder directly, or license the work according to the terms set by the licensing contract.

How does Instagram detect copyrighted music?

How does Instagram Detect Copyrighted Music? Instagram's automated system detects the copyright status of music from its ID whenever it is played in a post (photo or reel). When you use copyrighted music in your content, Instagram notifies you, sending frequent alerts while uploading the reel or image.

How to put music in reels without copyright?

A good way to avoid penalties for using copyrighted music on Instagram Reels is to use our own music. Creating your own music offers complete control over the content and guarantees that you won't face any copyright claims. It also adds a unique touch to your Reels, setting them apart from others.

Can I use 7 seconds of a copyrighted song?

No, there's no magical "7-second rule"; using any portion of a copyrighted song, even just a few notes or seconds, is technically infringement unless you have permission or it qualifies as fair use (which is a legal defense, not a right). While shorter clips are less likely to be automatically flagged by systems like YouTube's Content ID (which can detect as little as 3 seconds), the copyright holder can still find it and issue a claim or takedown, especially for longer clips or commercial uses. 

What is the 3 minute rule in music?

The "3-minute rule" in music refers to the traditional length of popular hit songs, rooted in the physical limitations of early 78 rpm records (fitting about 3 minutes per side) and reinforced by radio's need for ad space and commercial viability, making shorter songs easier to market and play, though this convention has evolved with digital streaming and varied tastes. It became a standard for radio-friendly singles, balancing musicality with commercial demands, a habit that persists even with modern technology.
 

How to post video with music on Instagram without getting blocked?

Stay protected by using licensed or royalty-free music; either create your own tracks, get permission from artists, or use trusted music licensing platforms like Soundstripe for fully cleared songs.

Can you be sued for using music on Instagram?

It's possible to infringe someone else's copyright when you post their content on Instagram or Threads, or facilitate copyright infringement, even if you: Bought or downloaded the content (example: a song from iTunes)

How to find license free music on Instagram?

For Stories, tap the music icon (represented with a music note) on the top of the screen. For Reels, tap the “Audio” option on the left side. 5. Write “royalty free music” in the search bar to see the choices Instagram lists.

How to avoid copyright songs on Instagram?

Here are some tips to help:

  1. Include Visuals. Instagram's music copyright rules state that your video should include a visual component if you want to use music. ...
  2. Keep It Short. ...
  3. Credit The Artist. ...
  4. Live Music. ...
  5. Try Facebook Sound Collection. ...
  6. Instagram Reels.

What are the rules for Instagram music?

All licensed audio must be attributed or linked to the artist and include the name of the track. Keep in mind that as we make sure to uphold our agreements with music rights holders, audio tracks in your posts can become muted as a result of any changes made to these agreements.

What happens if I post a video with copyrighted music on Instagram?

If a copyright owner revokes the license, then the media platform will mute or remove the audio from the post. Instagram and Tiktok both constantly monitor posts to ensure that the posts are compliant with their copyright rules. Posts that are not compliant will be muted or removed.

What is the 3 month rule for copyright?

The "copyright 3 month rule" in the U.S. refers to a key deadline for copyright owners: registering their work with the U.S. Copyright Office within three months of its first publication makes them eligible for significant benefits, including statutory damages and attorney's fees in infringement lawsuits, a remedy not available if registration occurs after infringement begins (unless within that three-month window). It's a strong incentive to register early, though copyright protection exists automatically upon creation, this timely registration unlocks powerful legal remedies.
 

How to give credits to avoid copyright?

Here's how to give credit for copyrighted materials used in videos:

  1. Understand the Licensing: ...
  2. Include in Video Credits: ...
  3. On-Screen Text: ...
  4. Video Description: ...
  5. Voiceover Mention: ...
  6. Use Official Symbols: ...
  7. Provide Additional Details: ...
  8. Avoid Implied Endorsement:

Can I use copyrighted music if I'm not making money?

You might think that since a non-profit isn't making any money from a project that incorporates copyrighted content, they are protected by fair use provisions. However, even if content is not monetized, it can still be subject to copyright law.

How can I legally use copyrighted content?

Ask for permission

Owner provides advanced, blanket permission for the work to be used. If you need permission and there's no blanket license, you can try to contact the copyright owner.

How do I add music to an Instagram post without copyright?

Use Licensed Music

Instagram's music library includes licensed tracks that you can use without worrying about copyright claims. These songs have been pre-cleared by Instagram for use in stories, reels, and posts.

Will Instagram delete my account for copyright infringement?

If you repeatedly post content that infringes someone else's intellectual property rights, such as copyrights or trademarks, your account may be disabled or your Page removed under Instagram's repeat infringer policy.