Is the karaoke trend of old undergoing a resurgence? While that is not likely the case, Instagram is expanding its test of Song Lyrics Reels. This test not only includes more regions, but also adds another music engagement option to the app. When you think about it, isn’t this another attempt by Instagram to try and replicate something from TikTok? TikTok’s ‘Gimme The Mic’ initiative explores a new way to monetize content and build interaction and renown in the app.
Diverse Lyricism
The official samples from Instagram show that the music + lyrics option displays the lyrics of your chosen song on screen. Lyric subtitles are available in different font styles, adding another element to Reels. It also makes it easier to find a song section you want to use, with lyrics appearing as you scroll.
Instagram has been testing Song Lyrics Reels in select regions over the past few months. The experiment expands on Instagram’s options to add lyrics in Stories, which has been available since 2019.
The experiment is also the latest in Instagram’s broadening music focus, in alignment with current music trends. On top of Song Lyrics Reels, Instagram has also added the capacity to include songs in static images and carousels. Instagram also has Reels track recommendations, music in Notes, music sharing in DMs, Reels ‘Dancify’, and more.
Instagram continues to chase TikTok on this front. Despite several advancements over the year, TikTok’s lead remains slightly out of reach. TikTok is the home of entertainment and has also become a key platform for music promotion. Emerging music artists get a sizable exposure boost by marketing on TikTok. Artists and record labels can create tracks on TikTok to maximize their success. One viral TikTok hit can skyrocket your career. Again, the app is becoming an essential pathway for musicians to promote their work.
Instagram, never the one to accept second place, wants to facilitate the same. Instagram diving into music integrations is partly a hedge move in case of a US TikTok ban. When it comes to aligning with trends, TikTok maintains a clear lead.
The Wrap
According to reports, Meta lost its cool factor long ago. Through replication, Meta began ‘outsourcing’ its development, gaining back some of its fame, while maintaining relevance. Meta has never been good at latching onto cultural nous, but that has not stopped it from innovating. Song Lyrics Reels is a lesser element in this respect, but it adds another card to Meta’s hand.
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