How Can I Add Music to a Video?

Emily Lee

Adding music to a video can completely transform its mood, energy, and impact. Whether you’re creating content for social media, YouTube, a presentation, or a personal memory, background music helps tell your story more effectively.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to add music to a video using different devices and tools.


Before You Start: Choose the Right Music

Make sure you:

  • ✅ Use royalty-free or licensed music
  • ✅ Match the mood (happy, dramatic, calm, energetic)
  • ✅ Adjust volume so it doesn’t overpower dialogue
  • ✅ Check platform copyright rules (YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)

Method 1: Add Music to a Video on iPhone

Using iMovie (Free App)

Steps:

  1. Open iMovie.
  2. Tap Create Project → Movie.
  3. Select your video and tap Create Movie.
  4. Tap the + (Add Media) button.
  5. Choose Audio.
  6. Select:
    • Soundtracks
    • My Music
    • Files
  7. Tap the music track → Tap Add.
  8. Adjust length and volume.
  9. Tap Done → Share to save.

You can trim music by dragging its edges in the timeline.


Method 2: Add Music to a Video on Android

Using CapCut (Free & Popular)

Steps:

  1. Open CapCut.
  2. Tap New Project.
  3. Select your video.
  4. Tap Audio.
  5. Choose:
    • Sounds
    • Extracted audio
    • Your device music
  6. Add the track.
  7. Adjust timing and volume.
  8. Export the final video.

Other Android apps you can use:

  • InShot
  • VN Editor
  • Adobe Premiere Rush

Method 3: Add Music Using Windows PC

Using Clipchamp (Built into Windows 11)

Steps:

  1. Open Clipchamp.
  2. Create a new project.
  3. Drag your video into the timeline.
  4. Click Music & SFX.
  5. Choose stock music or upload your own.
  6. Drag it to the timeline.
  7. Adjust volume and trim.
  8. Export your video.

Alternative Windows tools:

  • Adobe Premiere Pro
  • DaVinci Resolve
  • Filmora

Method 4: Add Music Using Mac

Using iMovie (Mac Version)

  1. Open iMovie.
  2. Create a new project.
  3. Import your video.
  4. Drag it to the timeline.
  5. Click Audio.
  6. Add music to the timeline.
  7. Adjust levels and timing.
  8. Export the finished video.

Method 5: Add Music Online (No Download Required)

You can use browser-based editors like:

  • Canva Video Editor
  • Kapwing
  • VEED.io
  • Clipchamp (web version)

General Steps:

  1. Upload your video.
  2. Add music from their library or upload your own.
  3. Adjust timing and volume.
  4. Download the final file.

These are great for quick edits without installing software.


How to Adjust Music Properly

✅ Lower Background Music Volume

If your video has dialogue:

  • Keep music at 10–30% volume.
  • Use fade-in and fade-out effects.

✅ Trim to Match Scenes

Cut music to align with:

  • Scene changes
  • Transitions
  • Beat drops

✅ Loop Music if Needed

Most apps allow you to duplicate or extend music tracks.


How to Avoid Copyright Problems

If posting publicly:

  • Use royalty-free music from:
    • YouTube Audio Library
    • Pixabay Music
    • Epidemic Sound
    • Artlist
  • Avoid using copyrighted commercial songs without permission.

Platforms may mute or remove your video if copyrighted music is detected.


Final Thoughts

Adding music to a video is easier than ever, whether you’re using a phone, computer, or online editor. The key is choosing the right track, adjusting the volume properly, and respecting copyright rules.

With just a few simple steps, you can turn an ordinary clip into a professional, engaging video that captures attention and emotion.