How to Use Trending Sounds to Increase Instagram Reel Views

Audio is a powerful driver of discovery on Instagram Reels. When you use a trending sound, Instagram's algorithm is more likely to push your Reel to the Explore page and suggest it to users browsing that audio. Here is how to make trending sounds work for your content strategy.

Why Trending Sounds Matter

Instagram's algorithm gives a boost to Reels that use audio tracks currently gaining popularity. When many users are creating and watching content with a particular sound, Instagram recognizes it as engaging and surfaces more Reels using that audio. As explained in Instagram's transparency post on how ranking works, audio usage is one of the signals the Reels algorithm considers when distributing content.

This creates a window of opportunity: if you use a sound while it is on the rise (before it peaks), your Reel has a higher chance of being discovered by people browsing that sound's page.

How to Find Trending Sounds

Check the Reels Audio Library

Open the Reels camera and tap the music icon. Instagram shows trending songs and sounds at the top of the library, often with an upward arrow or "trending" badge. These are the sounds currently gaining momentum.

Watch the Explore Page

Spend a few minutes scrolling through the Reels tab on Explore. Pay attention to which audio tracks keep appearing. If you hear the same sound in 3-4 different Reels within a short browsing session, it is likely trending.

Follow Audio Trend Accounts

Several Instagram accounts specialize in curating trending audio. Following them gives you early alerts about sounds that are about to take off, giving you more time to create content. Resources like the Instagram Creators platform also share tips on using audio effectively.

Save Sounds for Later

When you come across a sound you like while browsing, tap the audio name at the bottom of the Reel and select "Save Audio." This builds a library of trending sounds you can use when you are ready to create.

Best Practices for Using Trending Audio

• Act quickly: Trending sounds have a lifecycle. The earlier you create content with a rising sound, the more exposure you will get
• Make it relevant: Do not force a trending sound into content where it does not fit. Adapt your content idea to match the mood and energy of the audio
• Add your own spin: The most successful Reels take a trending format and add a unique perspective. If everyone is doing the same joke, think of how you can adapt it to your niche
• Use original audio too: While trending sounds help with discovery, original audio can become a trend itself and drive traffic back to your profile
• Check licensing: Business accounts may have restricted access to some commercial music. Instagram's sound library shows which tracks are available for your account type

Timing Your Posts

The lifecycle of a trending sound typically follows this pattern. Research from Later suggests that timing your posts during peak audience hours combined with early trend adoption can significantly amplify your reach.

1. Early adoption (days 1-3): A sound starts gaining traction. This is the best time to post — less competition, high algorithm boost
2. Peak popularity (days 4-10): The sound is everywhere. You can still benefit, but you need stronger content to stand out
3. Decline (days 10+): The sound is overused. Creating content with it now offers diminishing returns

Aim to post during the early adoption phase for maximum impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a sound is trending on Instagram?

Open the Reels camera and tap the music icon. Trending sounds appear at the top of the library, often marked with an upward arrow or a trending badge. You can also check the Explore page — if the same audio keeps appearing across multiple Reels, it is likely trending.

How long does a trending sound stay popular?

Most trending sounds have a lifecycle of about 7 to 14 days. The early adoption phase (days 1 to 3) offers the best opportunity for reach. After peaking around days 4 to 10, the sound typically becomes oversaturated and offers diminishing returns.

Can business accounts use trending music on Reels?

Business accounts may have restricted access to some commercial music due to licensing. Instagram shows which tracks are available for your account type in the sound library. Many trending sounds, especially original audio clips, are available to all account types.

Should I only use trending sounds on my Reels?

No. While trending sounds help with discovery, using original audio can also be effective. Original audio that resonates with viewers can become a trend itself and drive traffic back to your profile. A mix of trending and original audio works best.