How to Fix “Sound Removed” on TikTok

TikTok is a sound-driven platform, where music, voiceovers, and sound effects are essential to content creation. So, when you upload a video and get a “Sound removed” notice, it can be frustrating—especially if the audio was key to the post’s message or entertainment value. This issue can occur for several reasons, including copyright restrictions, audio glitches, or app-related bugs. This article explains why TikTok removes sounds, and offers practical solutions to help you on how to fix “sound removed” on TikTok and keep your content engaging and compliant.

Why TikTok Removes Sounds from Videos

Before fixing the issue, it’s important to understand why TikTok may remove or mute audio:

1. Copyright Violation: TikTok might remove music or audio that violates licensing agreements, especially in certain regions or for commercial use.
2. Commercial Account Restrictions: If you have a business account, you’re only allowed to use royalty-free or TikTok-provided commercial sounds.
3. Removed or Deleted Sound: If the original creator or TikTok removes the sound after you use it, it may disappear from your video.
4. Private or Blocked Sound: Some sounds may be made private or restricted by the original uploader.
5. Technical Glitch: Sometimes, the app may experience bugs that result in sounds not loading or being mistakenly muted.
6. Regional Restrictions: Certain songs or sounds are not licensed for use in specific countries, leading to muted or removed audio.

How to Fix “Sound Removed” on TikTok

Here are several effective methods to troubleshoot and fix the issue:

1. Check If the Sound Is Still Available on TikTok

• Tap the muted video on your profile.
• Tap on the sound (usually marked as “Original sound” or “Sound removed”).
• If you see an error message like “Sound not available,” it has been deleted or restricted.
• Fix: You’ll need to choose a different sound or re-upload the video using a TikTok-approved audio track.

2. Switch to a Personal Account (If You’re Using a Business Account)

Business accounts on TikTok are limited to royalty-free audio and commercial sounds.

• Go to Profile > Settings and Privacy.
• Tap Manage Account.
• Under Account Control, switch from Business to Personal Account.
• Re-upload the video using your desired sound from TikTok’s music library.

3. Use TikTok’s Official Sound Library

To avoid future issues, always use sounds directly from TikTok’s music library:

• Tap the + button to create a new video.
• Tap Add Sound at the top of the screen.
• Choose music or sounds from the list of recommended, trending, or commercial options.

Using TikTok’s official library ensures compliance with copyright and regional restrictions.

4. Avoid Using External Music in Uploaded Videos

If you edit a video outside of TikTok using music that isn’t approved, the platform may automatically mute it.

• Fix: Remove the external music and use a track from TikTok’s built-in music library instead.

5. Re-upload the Video With a New Sound

If the original sound was removed after uploading:

• Save the video (if it doesn’t include copyrighted audio).
• Create a new post and upload the saved video.
• Tap “Add Sound” and choose a different audio from TikTok’s library.

You can also record your own original voiceover or music if it’s relevant to your content.

6. Check Internet and App Updates

Sometimes, the sound error may be caused by poor internet connectivity or app bugs.

• Ensure you’re connected to stable internet.
• Check if there’s a TikTok app update on the App Store or Google Play Store.
• Clear TikTok’s cache:
  • Go to Settings and privacy > Free up space > Clear cache.

7. Appeal If You Think It Was Removed in Error

If you believe your audio was wrongly removed:

• Tap on the muted video.
• Tap the “Appeal” option (if available).
• Submit your concern and wait for TikTok’s review.

However, appeals work best when the audio is original or royalty-free.

Tips to Prevent Sound Removal in the Future

• Stick to TikTok’s music library and licensed sounds.
• Don’t use copyrighted music from outside apps unless you own the rights.
• Keep a backup of your videos with original audio in case of future removal.
• Regularly check TikTok’s Community Guidelines and Sound Usage Policies.

Also Read: How to Add a Link to Your TikTok Bio Without 1000 Followers