[FAQ]

Hey everyone,

I’m constantly seeing advice for growing on platforms like TikTok and Instagram that says you have to use trending sounds to get more views. I’m just wondering how much of a difference it genuinely makes in 2025.

Is it a critical factor that the algorithm heavily relies on, or can good, original content perform just as well without needing to jump on every audio trend? I’m also curious about the best way to use them without just feeling like you’re copying what everyone else is doing.

Curious to hear your thoughts and experiences. Thanks!

[Jeff Bullas]

Using trending sounds is a very important and effective tactic for increasing the discovery and potential reach of your short-form videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. However, it is a tool, not a guarantee of success.

The reason trending sounds are so important is twofold. First, the algorithms on these platforms are built around trend-based discovery. When a sound becomes popular, the platform creates a dedicated audio page for it. The algorithm then actively promotes content using that sound to users who have already shown interest by watching or engaging with other videos featuring the same audio. By using a trending sound, you are effectively inserting your content into a massive, pre-existing stream of viewership and conversation.

Second, these sounds often provide creative context and cultural relevance. Trends frequently come with specific formats, jokes, or challenges, which can give you a ready-made structure for creating content that is timely and easily understood by a broad audience. It is a way of speaking the current language of the platform.

However, it is crucial to understand that simply adding a trending sound to a low-quality or irrelevant video will not make it go viral. The content of your video must still be engaging and, ideally, should add a creative, valuable, or humorous twist to the trend. The algorithm still heavily relies on core engagement metrics like watch time and completion rate. If viewers are drawn in by the sound but quickly scroll away because your video is not interesting, your video’s reach will be cut short.

For best practice, first, try to act relatively quickly on trends, as their lifespan can be short. Second, the most successful videos often make the trend their own by applying the audio to their specific niche or adding a unique perspective. Do not just copy another creator’s video; adapt the trend to fit your own voice and brand.

While trending sounds are a powerful tool for discoverability and reaching new audiences, creating content with your own original audio is essential for building brand authority and establishing your unique identity. A good content strategy often involves a healthy mix of both.

In summary, using trending sounds is a highly important strategy for discoverability as it connects your content to an active, high-traffic conversation. Its effectiveness, however, is dependent on you creating a quality video that adds a valuable or creative spin to that trend. It is a powerful tool for reach, but it is not a substitute for good content.

Cheers,

Jeff

[Author]

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