How to Make Sound on TikTok: Insider Tips and Tricks for Viral Videos

Want to make your TikTok videos stand out from the crowd? One of the most effective ways to do that is by using the right sounds. Whether you’re creating a funny skit, a dance video, or a motivational message, the right audio can elevate your content and make it more engaging. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to make sound on TikTok, from using trending sounds to creating your own custom audio.

Understanding TikTok Sounds

TikTok’s audio library is a treasure trove of music, sound effects, and voiceovers. These sounds can be used to:

• Set the mood: A catchy song can instantly make your video more fun and upbeat, while a dramatic sound effect can add tension or suspense.
• Enhance the content: Sound effects can complement your actions in a video, making them more impactful.
• Drive engagement: Using trending sounds can increase the visibility of your videos, as they are more likely to be discovered by users who are searching for that specific audio.

How to Use Existing TikTok Sounds

1. Explore the “Sounds” Tab: When creating a new video, tap the “Sounds” tab in the bottom right corner of the screen. You’ll see a variety of trending and popular sounds.
2. Search for Specific Sounds: Use the search bar to find specific songs, artists, or sound effects. You can also search by keywords like “funny,” “sad,” or “love.”
3. Use the Sound Library: The “Sound Library” tab offers a curated selection of sounds categorized by genre, mood, and popularity.
4. Preview Sounds: Tap on any sound to preview it and see how it would fit your video.
5. Add the Sound to Your Video: Once you’ve chosen a sound, tap the “Use this sound” button to add it to your video.

Creating Your Own Custom Sounds

While using existing sounds is great, creating your own audio can make your content truly unique. Here’s how:

1. Record Directly in TikTok: The TikTok app allows you to record audio directly within the app. Simply tap the “Record” button and speak, sing, or play an instrument.
2. Use External Recording Apps: For higher-quality audio, consider using external recording apps like GarageBand, Audacity, or Adobe Audition.
3. Import Audio Files: You can import audio files from your device to TikTok. This allows you to use music, sound effects, or voiceovers you’ve created elsewhere.
4. Add Sound Effects: TikTok offers a limited selection of built-in sound effects, but you can also find a wide range of free and paid sound effects online.
5. Edit Your Audio: TikTok’s editing tools allow you to trim, adjust the volume, and add fade-ins and fade-outs to your audio.

Tips for Using Sound on TikTok

• Choose Sounds That Match Your Content: The sound should complement the visuals and theme of your video.
• Use Trending Sounds: Trending sounds can give your videos a boost in visibility.
• Don’t Overuse Sound Effects: Sound effects should be used sparingly and strategically to enhance your video, not overwhelm it.
• Pay Attention to Copyright: Be aware of copyright laws when using music or sound effects. Always obtain permission or use royalty-free audio.
• Experiment with Different Sounds: Don’t be afraid to try out different sounds until you find what works best for you.

Examples of Creative Sound Use

• Adding Humor: A funny sound effect can instantly make a video more entertaining. For example, using the “Wilhelm Scream” when someone trips or falls.
• Setting the Mood: Using a calming instrumental piece can create a serene atmosphere for a relaxing video.
• Creating a Story: Using a voiceover or dialogue can help tell a story or convey a message.
• Enhancing a Dance Routine: A catchy song can make a dance video more dynamic and engaging.
• Adding Depth to a Tutorial: Using sound effects can emphasize certain steps or techniques in a tutorial video.

Sound Trends on TikTok

Sound trends are constantly evolving on TikTok. Here are some of the current trends:

• Viral Songs: Songs that are popular on other platforms often become viral on TikTok.
• Sound Effects: Unique and creative sound effects can quickly gain popularity.
• Dialogue Snippets: Quotes from movies, TV shows, or popular memes often become trending sounds.
• Voiceovers: People often use their own voices to create funny or relatable voiceovers.

Level Up Your TikTok Audio Game

• Use a Good Microphone: A quality microphone will ensure that your audio is clear and crisp.
• Record in a Quiet Environment: Avoid recording in noisy places to minimize background noise.
• Edit Your Audio: Use editing software to clean up your audio and remove any unwanted sounds.
• Experiment with Different Audio Formats: Try different audio formats like MP3, WAV, or M4A to see what sounds best for your videos.

The Power of Sound on TikTok

The right sound can make all the difference on TikTok. By understanding how to use sound effectively, you can create more engaging and impactful videos that will resonate with your audience.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use copyrighted music on TikTok?

A: While TikTok has a music library with licensed songs, using copyrighted music without permission is illegal. It’s best to stick to royalty-free music or music from TikTok’s library.

Q: How do I find trending sounds?

A: TikTok’s “For You” page often features videos using trending sounds. You can also check the “Sounds” tab and search for popular keywords.

Q: Can I use my own voice for sound effects?

A: Absolutely! You can record your own voice for sound effects or even create your own unique voiceovers.

Q: How do I avoid copyright issues when using music?

A: Always check the copyright status of any music you use. Look for royalty-free music or obtain permission from the copyright holder before using copyrighted music.

Q: What are some good audio editing apps?

A: Some popular audio editing apps include GarageBand, Audacity, Adobe Audition, and WavePad.