How To Analyze Instagram Reels Audio Trends To Boost Your Reach

We all know that high-quality visuals, compelling storytelling, and engagement strategies play critical roles in achieving virality, but there is one often-overlooked factor that can make or break a Reel’s success, and that is audio trends.

Understanding and analyzing Instagram Reels audio trends is essential for anyone looking to maximize reach, engagement, and discoverability. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down why audio matters, how to identify trends, and how to strategically incorporate trending sounds to boost content performance.

Why Audio Trends Matter on Instagram Reels

Instagram’s algorithm heavily favors Reels that leverage popular sounds and music. When users engage with a specific sound, the platform recommends other videos using the same track. This means that selecting the right audio can significantly enhance discoverability.

Increased Discoverability Through Algorithmic Favor

When a sound starts trending, Instagram pushes content using that audio to more people via the Reels tab, Explore page, and sound pages. This creates a cycle where more users interact with the sound, further boosting content that includes it.

Higher Engagement Rates

Trending sounds often evoke emotional responses—whether it’s excitement, nostalgia, humor, or inspiration. Videos using these sounds tend to see higher likes, comments, and shares, leading to more organic reach.

Enhanced Storytelling and Emotional Connection

Audio plays a critical role in setting the tone of a video. Whether it’s a catchy song, a viral voiceover, or a meme-worthy soundbite, the right audio can make content more relatable and memorable.

Participation in Cultural and Niche Movements

Certain sounds define moments in digital culture. Tapping into audio trends allows brands and creators to be part of larger conversations within their niche or industry.

Learn how your audio choices can affect viewer retention on TikTok.

How to Identify Instagram Reels Audio Trends

Understanding which sounds are trending is the most important thing if you want to stay ahead of the curve. Here are effective methods to analyze and find trending audio on Instagram Reels.

1. Explore the Reels Tab and Sound Pages

• Instagram’s Reels tab features trending videos, and a quick scroll can help identify sounds that are gaining traction.
• Clicking on the audio name at the bottom of a Reel leads to the sound page, showing all videos using the track and an indicator if it’s trending.
• If a sound has an upward arrow next to its name, it’s currently trending.

2. Use Instagram’s In-App Audio Search

Instagram has a dedicated audio search function that allows users to browse trending sounds. To use it:

• Tap on the magnifying glass (Explore icon)
• Type a keyword followed by “audio”
• Check the number of videos associated with each sound

3. Follow Influencers and Niche Creators

Many influencers and content creators jump on audio trends early. Watching some of their content can provide insight into emerging trends before they become mainstream.

4. Monitor Instagram’s Trend Reports and Blog

Instagram periodically releases trend reports highlighting rising music, challenges, and user behaviors. Keeping an eye on these reports can provide valuable insights.

5. Leverage Third-Party Tools

Several external platforms track trending sounds across social media, including:

• Tokboard – Primarily for TikTok but can indicate trends that might carry over to Instagram
• Shortimize – AI-driven insights into emerging audio and short form video trends
• ReelTrends – Real-time tracking of trending Instagram and TikTok sounds

6. Analyze Competitor and Industry-Specific Content

Brands should monitor competitors or industry leaders to see which sounds they use and how they perform. This is particularly useful in niche markets where general trends may not apply.

Strategies for Using Trending Audio Effectively

Identifying trending audio is only half the battle, using it strategically is what truly drives virality.

1. Use Sounds Early in the Trend Cycle

• The lifespan of a trending sound can be short (usually 1-3 weeks). Jumping on trends early ensures maximum exposure before they become oversaturated.
• If an audio track has a moderate number of videos (e.g., 5K-50K), it’s likely in the early-mid trend phase, making it a good choice.

2. Adapt the Trend to Your Niche

• Simply copying viral content isn’t enough. The key is to customize trending sounds to fit your brand’s message.
• Example: A fitness influencer could use a trending “motivation” sound to showcase workout progress, while a business coach might use the same sound for entrepreneurship tips.

3. Maintain Originality While Using Popular Audio

• Instagram prioritizes original content, even when using trending sounds. Adding unique visuals, captions, or a creative twist can make a video stand out.

4. Pair Trending Audio with High-Impact Visuals

• Instagram’s algorithm rewards engaging videos with aesthetic appeal, fast cuts, and strong storytelling.
• Combine trending sounds with eye-catching text overlays, smooth transitions, or engaging animations.

5. Combine Trending and Classic Sounds

• Some sounds trend for a short period, while others remain evergreen (e.g., classic songs, universally used memes).
• A well-balanced strategy should incorporate both, ensuring a mix of timely and lasting content.

6. Encourage User Participation

• Encouraging audiences to remix or use your original audio can enhance engagement.
• Example: A brand could create a challenge around a trending sound, prompting users to participate and tag them.

Tracking and Measuring the Impact of Audio Trends

Instagram Insights

Instagram’s built-in Reels Insights provides key performance metrics, including:

• Plays (total views)
• Interactions (likes, comments, shares, saves)
• Reach (unique accounts exposed to the Reel)
• Audio Page Views (how many people viewed the sound page after seeing your content)

Compare Performance of Different Audio Choices

Testing different trending sounds vs. non-trending sounds can provide insights into what works best for your audience.

Monitor Engagement Over Time

Some audio trends fade quickly, while others gain momentum over weeks or months. Keeping track of which sounds drive engagement over time can inform future content strategies.

Analyze Competitor Performance

Reviewing which sounds worked best for competitors can provide a roadmap for future content planning. Use third part tools like Shortimize or Brandwatch to keep an eye on your competitors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Trending Audio

#1 – Using Over-Saturated Sounds Too Late

Sounds with millions of videos may no longer provide discoverability benefits. Instead, look for rising trends.

#2 – Ignoring Copyright Restrictions

Some music is restricted for commercial use. Brands should check licensing policies before using copyrighted tracks to avoid takedowns.

#3 – Relying Solely on Trending Audio

While audio trends help with visibility, original content and brand identity should remain a priority.

#4 – Neglecting Audience Fit

Not all trending sounds resonate with every audience. Aligning audio choices with audience preferences ensures better engagement.

Key Takeaways

Analyzing Instagram Reels audio trends is a powerful strategy for increasing visibility, engagement, and virality. By staying ahead of trends, leveraging data-driven insights, and creatively adapting sounds, creators and brands can maximize their content’s impact.