If you’ve created original audio and want other people to use it, you may be wondering: how do you make your sounds public on TikTok? TikTok automatically creates a sound when you upload a video with your own voice, music, or other audio. However, whether other users can find and use that sound depends on your video’s privacy settings.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make your TikTok sounds public, how to check if people can use your audio, and what to do if the sound isn’t showing up for others.
What Is a TikTok Sound?
A TikTok sound is the audio attached to a video. It can be:
- Your voice
- Original music
- A remix
- Sound effects
- A combination of audio tracks
When you upload a video with original audio, TikTok usually labels it as Original Sound – YourUsername.
How to Make Your Sound Public
The easiest way to make your sound public is to make the video containing the sound public.
Step-by-step instructions
- Open the TikTok app.
- Tap Profile.
- Open the video that contains your original sound.
- Tap the three dots (•••) or More button.
- Select Privacy settings.
- Set Who can watch this video to Everyone.
- Make sure Allow others to use this sound is turned ON (if the option appears).
Once the video is public, other users should be able to tap the sound and use it in their own videos.
How to Check if Your Sound Is Public
After posting:
- Open your video.
- Tap the sound name at the bottom of the screen.
- You’ll be taken to the sound page.
- If you see a Use this sound button, the sound is available for other users.
You can also see how many videos have used your sound on this page.
Why Is My Sound Not Public?
There are several possible reasons.
Your video is private
If the video is set to Only me or Friends, the sound will not be publicly available.
You turned off sound usage
Some accounts have an option that prevents others from using their audio. Turn Allow others to use this sound back on.
The audio contains copyrighted music
If your video includes copyrighted music, TikTok may restrict the sound from being reused by other users.
The sound is still processing
Newly uploaded videos may take a few minutes before the sound becomes available.
Can You Make a Sound Public After Posting?
Yes. You can change the video’s privacy settings at any time:
- Open the video.
- Tap •••.
- Go to Privacy settings.
- Change the audience to Everyone.
- Enable Allow others to use this sound if available.
The sound should become public shortly afterward.
How to Create a Sound People Want to Use
If your goal is to get other creators to use your audio:
Keep it short
Sounds between 5–15 seconds are often reused more frequently.
Make it easy to understand
Clear speech and good audio quality help other users adopt the sound.
Create a catchy phrase
Many viral TikTok sounds are based on a memorable line or reaction.
Use clean audio
Reduce background noise and echo if possible.
Start a trend
Show viewers how to use the sound in your own video and encourage them to try it.
Can Business Accounts Make Sounds Public?
Yes, but business accounts may have additional restrictions when using copyrighted music.
For the best chance of creating a reusable public sound, use:
- Your own voice
- Original music
- Royalty-free audio
- Sounds you have permission to use
ALSO READ: How to make your favorites public on TikTok
