TikTok has become a creative hub where millions of users post videos using various audio tracks, from viral songs to original voiceovers. However, for users with business accounts, the app automatically limits access to certain sounds labeled as “commercial sounds.” These are royalty-free tracks that are safe for promotional use, but they lack the trendiness and variety found in personal accounts. If you’re a content creator or brand manager wondering why you can’t access popular trending sounds—and how to turn off these restrictions—this article walks you through the process of disabling “commercial sounds” by switching your account type.
What Are Commercial Sounds on TikTok?
Commercial sounds are a curated selection of royalty-free music and audio clips provided by TikTok for business accounts. They are designed to avoid copyright issues when brands or businesses promote their services or products using TikTok videos. This helps companies stay legally compliant but limits creativity, as many popular or trending songs are off-limits.
Why Do You Hear Only Commercial Sounds?
If you’re only seeing or using commercial sounds on TikTok, it’s likely because your account is set to a Business Account. While this type of account offers advanced tools like analytics and access to ad features, it restricts your sound choices to commercial sounds.
To regain access to all trending music and viral sounds, you’ll need to switch back to a Personal Account.
How to Turn Off Commercial Sounds on TikTok
Here’s how you can switch your TikTok account from Business to Personal and regain full sound access:
Step 1: Open the TikTok App
Launch TikTok and make sure you’re logged in to the account you want to adjust.
Step 2: Go to Your Profile
Tap the profile icon located in the bottom right corner of the screen.
Step 3: Access the Menu
Tap the three-line menu (☰) at the top right corner of your profile page to open the options panel.
Step 4: Tap “Settings and Privacy”
In the menu, choose Settings and Privacy to enter your account management section.
Step 5: Select “Manage Account”
Inside this section, tap Manage account. Here you’ll find the option to switch account types.
Step 6: Switch to Personal Account
You’ll see your current account type listed—either Business or Personal.
Tap “Switch to Personal Account” and confirm your decision when prompted.
What Happens After You Switch?
Once you switch to a personal account:
- You will gain access to TikTok’s full music and sound library, including trending tracks, artist songs, and viral audio clips.
- You will lose business features such as access to in-depth analytics, the commercial music library, and website linking in your bio (unless you meet other eligibility criteria).
- Your account’s followers, videos, and likes will remain unchanged.
Should You Keep a Business Account?
It depends on your content goals:
- Stick with a business account if your main focus is advertising, brand outreach, or staying within copyright-safe boundaries.
- Switch to a personal account if you prioritize creativity, want to jump on sound trends, or don’t require advanced business tools.
Some creators opt to run two accounts: one for business purposes and one for personal or creative content.
Also Read: How to Add Captions to TikTok
