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Choosing the right trending audio to accompany your latest Instagram post is an art, not a science. Still, opting for a trending sound or music clip could provide the boost you need to get your video on the Instagram Explore page or Instagram Reels feed.
While it used to be just for Instagram Reels, you can now also add trending audio to your carousels and single photo posts. This gives your posts a better chance of landing on the Explore page, and it makes carousels and photos eligible to appear on the reels feed, too. That opens up a new way to expand your reach.
But where can you find trending audio on Instagram? If you feel like you’re always chasing the tail-end of trending songs on the app, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are some of the most viral, versatile, trending songs and sounds on Instagram right now.
Jump to a section:
13 trending songs and audio on Instagram
Here's a quick summary of what is trending in September 2026.
Trending songs on Instagram in 2026
- 1. original audio by caitbcontent
- 2. Ring My Bell
- 3. Less than a lover
- 4. Mix by lisahoogendoorn
- 5. Mix by alchemysticwellness
- 6. Original audio by bananalace
- 7. Original audio by thefoundryavondale
- 8. Yummy Little Day
- 9. Original audio by olyabelakoneva
- 10. Original audio by cosrx
- 11. petal
- 12. Timber
- 13. Cherry on the Edge
1. original audio by caitbcontent
This original audio from caitbcontent is the soundtrack to the "whimsymaxxing" trend, where creators embrace Y2K-inspired maximalism. It's a great one for brands with a little sparkle. The trend also extends to everyday rituals, turning little touches like heart-shaped ice cubes or sprinkles in your coffee into opportunities to make life a little more fun. Rhinestones compulsory.
2. Ring My Bell
I nearly forgot about this song, but I'm glad it's back! Ring My Bell by Anita Ward may have been released back in 1979, but its disco energy is having another moment on Instagram. Creators are using it for outfit videos and other playful, feminine lifestyle content.
3. Less than a lover
Less Than a Lover by JENNIE was released in July 2026, but it's already been used in over 221K reels on Instagram. Creators are using the dreamy track as a backdrop for inspirational, aesthetic, and romantic content.
4. Mix by lisahoogendoorn
Using audio from @lisahoogendoorn, the "Two Best Friends" trend is the perfect excuse to show off what makes you and your bestie different. Replace your face with your contrasting preferences, and you have a sweet little montage of your contrasting vibes.
5. Mix by alchemysticwellness
This original audio from alchemysticwellness uses the can-can to put a playful spin on the "When you're a professional but you're also…" trend. It's a fun way for business owners and professionals to show the personality (and often a little chaos) behind the polished headshot.
6. Original audio by bananalace
This original audio from bananalace is behind the "Balance your expenses" trend, where creators take the concept of budgeting very literally, balancing everything from products to pets.
7. Original audio by thefoundryavondale
This trend is all about the moment someone finally gives you the little push you needed. Creators are taking it literally, showing themselves getting an actual shove into buying something, starting a new hobby, or trying something they've been putting off. It's a great fit for brands to convince people to take the first step.
8. Yummy Little Day
Yummy Little Day by emilogue is the soundtrack to wholesome “a yummy little day” content on Instagram. Creators are using the gentle audio for cutesy day-in-the-life clips, curated moments of cozy, and definitely plenty of crafting.
9. Original audio by olyabelakoneva
This original audio from olyabelakoneva is behind the “POV: your phone is ringing” trend, where creators unpack their very full bags to explain why they can't find their phone. Makeup, sunglasses, fragrances, and everything else they somehow carry around come tumbling out in the process.
10. Original audio by cosrx
This original audio from cosrx is behind the “Bad Dream” trend, where creators give products a hilariously dramatic nightmare sequence. The video starts with the product facing some kind of disaster before cutting to it tucked safely into bed and waking up from a bad dream. It's an easy format for brands to recreate with their own products.
11. petal
petal by Ariana Grande continues to bloom on Instagram (and everywhere, really). The song is dreamy and synth-heavy, lending itself to fashion, beauty, and even dance.
⚠️ Contains an expletive.
12. Timber
Timber by Pitbull feat. Kesha is having a throwback moment on Instagram, bringing plenty of good times energy back to reels. The big drop works particularly well for fast-cut edits, such as showing off a workout, a night out, or an adventure.
13. Cherry on the Edge
Cherry on the Edge by miss rany is giving girl power on Instagram. Creators are using it for everything from beauty and fashion to gym updates, outfit reveals, and travel vlogs. When you hear the vocals and vibe, you'll see why. *adds to Spotify playlist.
How to find trending audio on Instagram
Not loving any of the above options? No sweat: here’s a crash course on how to find trending sounds on Instagram Reels.
- Use Instagram’s trending audio list: Check Instagram’s built-in leaderboard for the top 50 trending songs updated every few days. Find it when creating a post, story, or reel on the Instagram mobile app by tapping the music icon, then selecting ‘Trending.’ Save tracks for later with the bookmark icon.
- Check the professional dashboard: If you have a professional account in the US, visit the Professional Dashboard on your profile, scroll to Tips and resources, and tap Trending audio for curated suggestions on Instagram Reels.
- Look for the arrow icon: As you scroll reels, watch for an upward arrow next to audio tracks—that’s Instagram’s indicator that a sound is trending.
- Follow Instagram’s Creators account: The @creators account shares regular updates on trending songs, editing tips for Instagram Reels, and feature announcements. Check out their IG Anthems highlight for more trending songs and trending sounds.
- Check TikTok or YouTube Shorts for early trends: Many trending Instagram Reels sounds originate on TikTok or YouTube Shorts. Browse trending sounds there, then search for those tracks on Instagram to get ahead of the curve.
Don't forget about original audio
As you can see from some of the audio we've mentioned on the list, many creators are making waves with their own clips, and jumping on a trending original track can give your content an extra boost and help it stand out in feeds.
💡Pro tip: You can find trending original audio on your professional dashboard under the Original audio tab.
Happy posting with these trending Instagram songs!
You're well-equipped to find the next great trending audio on Instagram for your reels, carousels, or single-photo posts — and you've got several great tracks to put in your back pocket if you get stuck!
If you’ve created an Instagram Reel with one of these trending songs, we’d love to see it. Tag @buffer on Instagram so we can find you!
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