Instagram has become more than just a photo-sharing app — it’s a full-scale social media experience, complete with features like Instagram Stories, Reels, and the all-important music sticker. But there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to find the perfect song for a Story or Reel, only to realize that Instagram isn’t showing all the available songs. If you’ve encountered this headache, don’t worry. Fortunately, there are several easy fixes to help you restore your full Instagram music library.
1. Switch to a Personal or Creator Account
Instagram offers three types of accounts: Personal, Creator, and Business. If you’re logged into a Business account, that may be the reason you’re seeing a limited music library. Due to copyright restrictions, business accounts are often restricted from accessing many popular songs.
How to switch:
- Open Instagram and go to your profile.
- Tap the hamburger menu (☰) in the top right corner and select Settings and privacy.
- Select Account, then tap Switch account type.
- Choose Switch to Personal Account or Creator Account.
After making the switch, restart Instagram and check if your music library has expanded.
2. Update the Instagram App
Instagram updates often include bug fixes and feature improvements. An outdated version of the app may be the culprit behind missing songs in your music sticker. Always make sure your app is running on the latest version.
How to update:
- For Android: Open the Google Play Store, search for Instagram, and tap Update if available.
- For iOS: Open the App Store, search for Instagram, then hit Update.
Once updated, reopen the app and check the music section again.
3. Reinstall Instagram
If updating doesn’t work, try giving the app a fresh start. Reinstalling Instagram can resolve hidden bugs and glitches that hinder certain features, including music access.
Steps to reinstall:
- Delete the Instagram app from your device.
- Restart your phone (optional, but helpful).
- Download Instagram again from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Log back into your account.
Once you’re logged in, create a new story or reel and see if the full music library returns.
4. Use a VPN to Access a Different Music Library
Instagram’s music feature is region-dependent and varies due to licensing restrictions. Some songs available in one country may not be available in another. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help simulate a location with a broader music access range.
How to do it:
- Download a reputable VPN app on your device.
- Set your location to a country like the United States or UK — which typically have larger music libraries.
- Open Instagram while the VPN is active and check the music sticker.
Important note: Make sure to use VPN services wisely and within legal and ethical boundaries. Some VPNs may also slow down your connection or cause login issues on Instagram, so use a well-reputed service.
5. Log Out and Clear App Cache
Sometimes, data stored in the app cache can interfere with functioning features like music stickers. Clearing Instagram’s cache, especially on Android devices, can often resolve these subtle bugs.
Steps to clear Instagram cache (Android only):
- Go to Settings on your phone.
- Select Apps or Applications and find Instagram.
- Tap on Storage, then hit Clear Cache.
After clearing the cache, log out of your account and then log back in. Try creating a story again and searching for music.
Note: iPhone users can only clear the cache by reinstalling the app.
Final Thoughts
Not being able to access your favorite songs on Instagram can be a serious buzzkill — especially when you had the perfect soundtrack in mind for your content. But with these five easy fixes, you can potentially solve the issue without too much hassle.
From switching account types to leveraging VPNs and updating your app, these solutions cover all the bases for restoring your music sticker to its full glory.
Still having issues? Keep an eye on Instagram’s help center and community forums — sometimes outages or regional restrictions are out of your control, and being informed is the next best step.