Are you looking to become the next TikTok sensation? Do you want to broaden your reach and get your music on TikTok? This guide will show you how to upload sounds to TikTok and will help you increase your fanbase.
There are two main ways to upload your music to TikTok: as a TikTok sound and into the official TikTok Music Library. This guide will cover both methods in detail to maximize your chances of gaining more fans and listeners for your music.
1. Uploading Your Music as a TikTok Sound
This method is fundamental to TikTok. The majority of videos on TikTok revolve around sounds, which can be uploaded by any user, not just musicians. Sounds can range from nature noises and baby cries to quotes, funny phrases, relaxing sounds, and more.
Sounds are the audio elements in your TikTok videos. When a video gains traction, viewers can engage with it by liking, sharing, and commenting. More importantly, they can use your sound in their own videos. This feature allows others to create content using your audio, potentially driving more attention to your original sound.
For example, the Money Spinning Monkeys sound has been used in millions of videos. Imagine if that was your song!
Popular Sounds Uploaded On TikTok
This image showcases popular sounds uploaded on TikTok, emphasizing the potential for a sound to go viral.
Consider this scenario: You record yourself playing a cover song in your bedroom and upload it to TikTok. If people enjoy your voice and the authenticity of your song, they might start using your sound in their videos, showcasing their vacations or daily routines with your music in the background.
Whenever someone uses your sound, a link to the original creator (you) will appear at the bottom of their video, allowing others to discover and use it as well.
Look at this woman playing guitar on TikTok. She looped the guitar and decided to publish it on TikTok. Notice at the bottom of the video there is a music icon with the sound she created. It shows her name Morgan Kennedy as the creator of the sound.
If you click on this sound then you’ll see the image below. Notice that you can see the “original” badge on the video in the top left corner of the video grid. This is the same video that we looked at above. Morgan is the original creator of this sound and video. Anyone on TikTok can “use this sound”. Notice the “use this sound” button in the bottom of the video grid.
When you click on this button your immediately taken to your camera and you can begin shooting a video with the Morgan Kennedy sound. How cool is that!
This image illustrates how users can easily access and use sounds created by others on TikTok.
The sound created by Morgan Kennedy has been used in thousands of videos, bringing potential new fans to her music.
1.1. How Can You Upload Your Recorded Version to TikTok?
To upload your recorded version of a track to TikTok for others to use as a sound:
- Create a video, whether it’s a live rendition or using stock footage from platforms like Pexels.
- Overlay your recorded song onto the video. Use video editing software such as Final Cut Pro or iMovie to sync the audio and video for a professional result.
I first uploaded the video footage, which I took on my iPhone, to Final Cut. I then dragged in the recorded version of the song right below the video. I made sure to sync up the video and audio so that it comes off as professional.
This image displays the process of editing a TikTok video, highlighting the syncing of audio and video elements.
Before exporting, ensure your video dimensions are set to 1080 x 1920 for optimal TikTok viewing.
This image shows how to adjust video dimensions in editing software to fit TikTok’s requirements.
1.2. Will the Sound Be Available in the Music Library?
The music sound library on TikTok allows users to search for and listen to 60-second previews of songs that artists have officially distributed to the platform.
For example, you can play the Harry Styles song As It Was for 1 min. It also has the single art and it’s not a video. It’s a song.
This image presents the TikTok music library, where users can preview officially distributed songs.
When you click into the song As It Was, you begin to see all the thousands of other videos that were created using this song. Note though, there is no “original video”. That’s because there was never an original video to go with it. It only ever existed as a song.
This image shows the song page for a popular song on TikTok, with the option to use the sound in a new video.
Creating a video with a sound does not automatically add your music to the TikTok music library. To ensure your music is available in the library, you need to follow the steps in the next section.
2. Uploading Your Music to the Official TikTok Music Library
To upload your music to the official TikTok music library, you’ll need a music distributor such as TuneCore or DistroKid.
2.1. What Is a Music Distributor?
A music distributor is a company that uploads your song to TikTok and other streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Tidal, Amazon Music, Instagram, and Facebook. Some distributors can upload your song to over 150 streaming services worldwide.
Music distributors act as intermediaries between you and TikTok, ensuring your music reaches the official TikTok music library.
This image illustrates the role of a music distributor in connecting artists with streaming platforms like TikTok.
2.2. Why Do Streaming Services Use Distributors?
Streaming services use distributors for two main reasons:
2.2.1. Quality Control
Music distributors ensure that your song meets the required quality standards, including file format, artwork dimensions, and proper crediting for songwriting and copyright ownership. It’s essential to ensure your song is properly mastered before uploading to TikTok.
tiktok music copyright
This image highlights the quality control measures that music distributors enforce to ensure high standards on streaming platforms.
2.2.2. Music Royalties
Music distributors manage and collect royalties from streaming services. They track how many times your song is streamed on TikTok, Spotify, Apple Music, and other platforms, and then pay you accordingly.
2.3. Are Music Distributors Free?
Some music distributors charge an annual fee, allowing you to keep 100% of your royalties. Others offer free options with service limitations or a royalty-sharing arrangement.
| Distributor | Pricing Model | Royalty Retention |
|---|---|---|
| TuneCore | Annual fee | 100% |
| DistroKid | Annual fee | 100% |
| Free Options | No upfront fee | Shared royalties |
3. Uploading to TikTok With a Music Distributor
This example uses TuneCore to illustrate the process, but the steps are similar for most distributors.
3.1. Step 1
Sign up with your chosen music distributor.
This image shows the homepage of a popular music distributor.
3.2. Step 2
Locate the option to “add a new single” or “upload a new single” on your distributor’s platform.
This image shows the option to add a new single in TuneCore.
3.3. Step 3
Add all the necessary information for your song:
3.3.1. Main Artist
Enter your artist name. Double-check the spelling.
3.3.2. Song Title
Ensure your song title is correct.
3.3.3. Song File Type
Upload your song as a 16bit or 24bit WAV file for the best quality. A well-mixed and mastered track is crucial.
3.3.4. Song Artwork
Upload artwork that is at least 3000 x 3000 pixels and under 25MB. Platforms like Canva can help you create professional artwork.
3.3.5. Song Release Date and Label Name
Schedule your release date if your distributor plan allows. Choose a label name, which may appear on other streaming platforms like Spotify.
3.3.6. ISRC and UPC Codes
If you are re-uploading a song or switching distributors, copy the ISRC and UPC codes from your original release to maintain your stream counts.
3.4. Step 4
Review all the song information before submitting, paying close attention to:
- Artist Name
- Song Name
- Song Preview Time
- Scheduled Release Date
I want to re-iterate that you check on all of these areas above because, take note from the image below, this is what specifically shows on on TikTok. I search for my artist name: Charles Cleyn and when to the Sounds tab.
spotify song credits
This image shows how an artist’s music appears on TikTok, including the artist name, song titles, and preview options.
Select a compelling preview segment for your song to capture listeners’ attention.
3.5. Step 5
Wait for your release day, allowing 2-4 weeks for the distributor to upload your song to TikTok.
On your release day, check TikTok to ensure your song is live. Create videos using your sound to engage your audience.
4. Elevate Your Street Sounds with streetsounds.net
Street sounds are more than just background noise; they are the heartbeat of urban life. At streetsounds.net, we celebrate the rich tapestry of urban audio, offering a diverse library of high-quality street sound effects perfect for musicians, filmmakers, and artists. Our curated collections, including the vibrant soundscapes of New York City, provide unique inspiration for your creative projects.
Imagine incorporating the authentic sounds of a bustling New York intersection into your next track or using the ambience of a quiet Brooklyn street to set the scene in your film. With streetsounds.net, you can access these sounds and more, ensuring your projects stand out with unparalleled realism and depth.
Address: 726 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, United States. Phone: +1 (212) 998-8550. Website: streetsounds.net.
5. Capturing the Essence of Street Sounds
At streetsounds.net, we understand the challenges of recording high-quality street sounds. The urban environment is filled with unpredictable noises, making it difficult to capture clean, usable audio. That’s why we’ve developed professional techniques and invested in top-of-the-line equipment to ensure our sound library meets the highest standards.
Our team meticulously records and edits each sound, removing unwanted background noise while preserving the authenticity and character of the original recording. We also provide detailed descriptions and metadata for each sound, making it easy to find the perfect audio element for your project.
5.1. The Cultural Impact of Street Sounds
Street sounds have a profound impact on our cultural identity, shaping the way we experience and interpret urban life. Researchers at the University of Chicago have studied how specific soundscapes can evoke strong emotions and memories, connecting us to particular places and times.
For example, the sound of a subway train pulling into a station is instantly recognizable to New Yorkers, triggering associations with commuting, city life, and the unique energy of the metropolis. Similarly, the sounds of street musicians, food vendors, and public gatherings contribute to the distinctive character of different neighborhoods, reflecting their cultural diversity and social dynamics.
By incorporating these authentic sounds into your creative work, you can tap into the rich cultural heritage of urban environments, adding depth, authenticity, and emotional resonance to your projects.
6. How to Maximize Your TikTok Presence
Once your music is on TikTok, promotion is key. Create engaging videos that showcase your sound and encourage others to use it. Pay attention to trends and challenges, and find creative ways to incorporate your music. Collaboration with other TikTok creators can also expand your reach and introduce your music to new audiences. Remember, consistency and creativity are essential for building a strong presence on TikTok.
7. Success Stories: Musicians on TikTok
Many musicians have found success on TikTok by leveraging its unique features and vast user base. For example, Curtis Roach, a Detroit-based rapper, gained viral fame with his “Bored in the House” track, which originated as a simple TikTok video. Similarly, artists like Lil Nas X and Doja Cat have used TikTok to launch their careers, demonstrating the platform’s power to discover and promote new talent.
These success stories highlight the importance of authenticity, creativity, and engagement in building a strong presence on TikTok. By creating content that resonates with your audience and participating in the platform’s vibrant community, you can increase your visibility and attract new fans.
8. Street Sounds in Film and Music
Street sounds play a crucial role in creating immersive and realistic experiences in film and music. In movies, the sounds of traffic, sirens, and crowds can transport viewers to a bustling urban environment, enhancing the emotional impact of a scene. In music, incorporating street sounds can add a unique texture and authenticity, creating a sonic landscape that reflects the energy and diversity of city life.
For example, the film “Baby Driver” masterfully uses street sounds to synchronize the action with the soundtrack, creating a thrilling and immersive experience for the audience. Similarly, many hip-hop and electronic music producers incorporate street sounds into their tracks, adding a raw, urban edge to their music.
9. The Future of Street Sounds
As technology evolves, the possibilities for capturing, manipulating, and incorporating street sounds into creative projects are endless. New recording techniques, such as binaural and ambisonic audio, allow for more immersive and realistic soundscapes. Artificial intelligence and machine learning can be used to analyze and categorize street sounds, making it easier to find the perfect audio element for your project.
At streetsounds.net, we are committed to staying at the forefront of these technological advancements, continuously expanding our sound library and developing innovative tools to help you unleash the power of street sounds in your creative work.
10. Final Thoughts on Uploading Music to TikTok
TikTok is a powerful platform for music discovery, with many global hits originating on the app. Uploading your music to TikTok offers a great way to experiment and understand your fans’ preferences.
10.1. Maximize Your Reach on Other Platforms
Once your music is on TikTok, consider expanding your reach to other streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
FAQ: How to Upload Sounds to TikTok
- Can I upload any sound to TikTok?
Yes, you can upload any sound as long as it complies with TikTok’s community guidelines and copyright policies. - Do I need a music distributor to upload music to TikTok?
You need a music distributor to add your music to the official TikTok music library. However, you can upload sounds directly through videos without a distributor. - How do I ensure my music sounds good on TikTok?
Ensure your music is well-mixed and mastered before uploading. - What file format should I use for uploading music to TikTok?
Use a high-quality WAV file (16bit or 24bit). - How long does it take for my music to appear on TikTok after uploading through a distributor?
It typically takes 2-4 weeks for your music to appear on TikTok after uploading through a distributor. - Can I change the preview time for my song on TikTok?
Yes, most music distributors allow you to select the song preview you would like to showcase. - What is an ISRC code, and why is it important?
An ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a unique identifier for your song. It’s important for tracking streams and royalties. - How can I promote my music on TikTok?
Create engaging videos, participate in trends, and collaborate with other creators. - What are the ideal video dimensions for TikTok?
The ideal video dimensions are 1080 x 1920. - Is there a cost associated with uploading music to TikTok?
The cost depends on the music distributor you choose. Some distributors charge an annual fee, while others offer free options with limitations.
Remember, uploading your music to TikTok is a great way to experiment with your fans. What do they like? What do they not like?
Feel free to reach out with any questions!
