How to add original audio to TikTok

Original audio is one of the most powerful features on TikTok. It allows creators to use their own voice, sounds, music, or recordings instead of relying on TikTok’s sound library. Adding original audio helps your content stand out, avoids copyright issues, and allows other users to reuse your sound if you choose to make it public. This article explains all the ways to add original audio to TikTok and how to manage it effectively.

What Is Original Audio on TikTok?

Original audio refers to any sound that is created or recorded by you. This can include your voice, background sounds, music you created, sound effects, or audio recorded outside TikTok and uploaded with a video. When posted, TikTok labels it as “original sound” under your username.

Why Use Original Audio on TikTok?

Using original audio helps to:

• Create unique and recognizable content
• Avoid copyright restrictions
• Start sound trends
• Allow others to reuse your audio
• Build a personal or brand identity

Original sounds often perform well when they are clear and engaging.

How to Add Original Audio by Recording Directly in TikTok

The simplest way to add original audio is by recording it inside the app.

Steps

1. Open TikTok and tap the plus (+) button.
2. Press and hold the record button to record your video.
3. Speak, sing, or capture sounds during recording.
4. Tap the checkmark to continue editing.
5. Adjust volume levels if needed.
6. Post your video.

The recorded sound automatically becomes original audio.

How to Add Original Audio Using the Voiceover Feature

You can add original audio after recording or uploading a video.

Steps

1. Create or upload your video.
2. Tap Voiceover on the editing screen.
3. Press the record button and speak or play your sound.
4. Stop recording when finished.
5. Adjust the voiceover volume.
6. Save and post your video.

This method is useful for narration and commentary.

How to Upload Original Audio from Your Device

You can add original audio recorded outside TikTok.

Steps

1. Open TikTok and tap the plus (+) button.
2. Tap Upload and select a video that already includes your audio.
3. Continue editing and post the video.

TikTok extracts the audio and labels it as original sound.

How to Create Original Audio Using Music or Sound Effects

If you create your own music or sound effects:

• Add them to your video using a third-party editor
• Ensure the audio is original or royalty-free
• Upload the edited video to TikTok

TikTok will recognize the audio as original.

How to Adjust Original Audio Volume

Steps

1. Tap Volume during editing.
2. Adjust the original sound slider.
3. Lower or mute any added TikTok sound.
4. Preview the audio balance.
5. Save changes.

Balanced audio improves viewer experience.

How Others Can Use Your Original Audio

When you post original audio:

• TikTok creates a sound page under your username
• Other users can tap the sound and use it
• You can choose to allow or restrict reuse

If you want others to use your sound, keep your account public.

How to Prevent Others from Using Your Original Audio

Steps

1. Go to Settings and privacy.
2. Tap Privacy.
3. Select Reuse of content.
4. Turn off Allow others to reuse your content.

This prevents others from using your original sound.

Best Practices for Original Audio

• Record in a quiet environment
• Speak clearly and confidently
• Keep audio quality high
• Avoid background noise
• Match audio to video content

Good audio quality increases engagement.

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