60 Best Songs for Instagram Stories (Complete List) (2024)

I know sometimes there’s often the urge to share exactly what you’re feeling with the world – whether it’s to connect with someone feeling the same way, or just to simply share.

One of my favourite things is to take a video of the world happening around me, and how it’s making me feel.

And music always seems to be the backtrack of my life, as cliché as it sounds. Songs for Instagram stories are essential – it’s interactive media, it engages people, it tells a story. Isn’t that what the media is? Just creative storytelling?

I made sure this list was up to date and featured the biggest and best songs that have gone viral on both TikTok and social media, in general. The best way to capture people’s attention to tell your story is to use captivating songs of interest.

Consulting lists from Elite Daily, Music Grotto, and Music Industry How To, I put together my own list of songs for Instagram stories that you can choose from when you’re hoping to tell a story.

Here are 60 of the best songs for Instagram stories.

1. “Flowers” – Miley Cyrus (pop)

2. “Blind” – SZA (R&B)

3. “Anti-Hero” – Taylor Swift (pop)

4. “The Loneliest Time” – Carly Rae Jepsen ft. Rufus Wainwright (pop)

5. “Pink Venom” – BLACKPINK (pop)

6. “Party” – Bad Bunny ft. Rauw Alejandro (Spanish)

7. “Happiness” – The 1975 (alternative)

8. “Nonsense” – Sabrina Carpenter (pop)

9. “Bad Habit” – Steve Lacy (indie pop)

10. “Massive” – Drake (rap)

11. “BREAK MY SOUL” – Beyoncé (pop)

12. “Conceited” – Flo Milli (rap)

13. “This Hell” – Rina Sawayama (pop)

14. “Where Are You” – PinkPatheress ft. WILLOW (pop)

15. “American Teenager” – Ethel Cain (indie)

16. “About Damn Time” – Lizzo (pop)

17. “First Class” – Jack Harlow (rap)

18. “As It Was” – Harry Styles (pop)

19. “Big Energy Remix” – Latto ft. Mariah Carey and DJ Khaled (pop)

20. “Used To Know Me” by Charli XCX (pop)

21. “CHICKEN TERIYAKI” by Rosalia (Spanish)

22. “jealousy” – FKA twigs ft. Rema (trap)

23. “Sunroof” – Nicky Youre ft. dazy (pop)

24. “Silk Chiffon” – MUNA ft. Phoebe Bridgers (indie/pop)

25. “Take My Breath” – The Weeknd (R&B)

26. “Kiss Me More” – Doja Cat ft. SZA (rap)

27. “Peaches” – Justin Bieber ft. Daniel Caeser and Giveon (pop)

28. “Best Friend” – Saweetie ft. Doja Cat (rap)

29. “Rain on Me” – Lady Gaga ft. Ariana Grande (pop)

30. “Levitating” – Dua Lipa (pop)

31. “Savage” – Megan Thee Stallion (rap)

32. “Life Is Good” (Remix) – Future ft. Drake (rap)

33. “Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd (R&B)

34. “Motivation” – Normani (pop)

35. “bad guy” – Billie Eilish (pop)

36. “thank you, next” – Ariana Grande (pop)

37. “I Like It” – Cardi B ft. Bad Bunny and J. Balvin (rap)

38. “Make Me Feel” – Janelle Monáe (pop/funk)

39. “Wild Thoughts” – DJ Khaled ft. Rihanna and Bryson Tiller (R&B)

40. “Good As Hell” – Lizzo (pop)

41. “Formation” – Beyoncé (pop)

42. “Feeling Myself” – Nicki Minaj ft. Beyoncé (rap/pop)

43. “We Can’t Stop” – Miley Cyrus (pop)

44. “I Love It” –Iconca Pop ft. Charli XCX (pop)

45. “Bad Girls” – M.I.A. (pop)

46. “Leave The Door Open” – Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, and Silk Sonic (R&B)

47. “Music For A Sushi Restaurant” – Harry Styles (pop)

48. “INDUSTRY BABY” – Lil Nas X ft. Jack Harlow (rap)

49. “Golden” – Harry Styles (pop)

50. “Swimming Pools (Dank)” – Kendrick Lamar (rap)

51. “Anyone” – Justin Bieber (pop)

52. “Dynamite” – BTS (K-pop)

53. “Chandelier” – Sia (pop)

54. “New Person, Same Old Mistakes” – Tame Impala (indie)

55. “Loyalty” – Kendrick Lamar (rap)

56. “3005’” – Childish Gambino (rap)

57. “Everybody Talks” – Neon Trees (pop)

58. “Paper Planes” – M.I.A. (pop)

59. “Where Is My Mind?” – Pixies (rock)

60. “Sunflower” – Rex Orange County

1. “Flowers” – Miley Cyrus (pop)

Arguably the most popular song of 2023, Miley Cyrus’s “Flowers” is perfect for a multitude of Instagram stories. When you’re out with your friends without a partner, a pretty picture of yourself, or when you literally buy yourself flowers – the possibilities are endless.

2. “Blind” – SZA (R&B)

SZA has been a rising star this year as well – and for good reason. Combining pop and R&B with a sultry voice, SZA creates a melodic, symphonic track with “Blind.” Perfect for Instagram stories where you’re looking to evoke some people in people.

3. “Anti-Hero” – Taylor Swift (pop)

You’ve heard this song before – and you will hear it again. Taylor Swift is a household name for a reason. She gave us the caption, “It’s me / Hi / I’m the problem / It’s me,” for our Instagram posts. Perfect for Instagram stories about the Eras Tour, or a fun time with your friends.

4. “The Loneliest Time” – Carly Rae Jepsen ft. Rufus Wainwright (pop)

Carly Rae Jepsen taps into classic techniques and flairs at the beginning of the track, channelling old disco and funk throughout the chorus, bursting onto the scene with a good ol’ pop hook. Perfect for those simple days when you’re enjoying the little things.

5. “Pink Venom” – BLACKPINK (K-pop)

An iconic girl group, BLACKPINK, is a K-pop group formed in 2016 that is known for its dedicated legion of fans. Switching between Korean and English, the track encapsulates the best of Western and Eastern music. Perfect for those snaps with your girls in the bathroom on a night out.

6. “Party” – Bad Bunny ft. Rauw Alejandro (pop)

Another star that has been shot to fame since the end of Covid, Bad Bunny approached the scene as a Latin trap musician. Bad Bunny has been helping Spanish become mainstream and played consistently on radio. Perfect for stories reminiscing on the summer sun.

7. “Happiness” – The 1975 (alternative)

While The 1975 is incredibly controversial, it’s an important lesson in where you stand in separating art from the artist. This soft rock, indie track is perfect for those bright sunny days when the sun warms your face and you had a good morning. Flowers, sky pics, iced coffees – anything will suit.

8. “Nonsense” – Sabrina Carpenter (pop)

Part of me wants to compare Sabrina Carpenter to Ariana Grande, but that would be an insult to Carpenter’s individuality. I love the incorporation of the twangy guitars in a pop song like this. A great song for when you’re feeling yourself.

9. “Bad Habit” – Steve Lacy (indie pop)

I love a good indie song – and this is a good indie song. Steve Lacy keeps a good backbeat while maintaining a chill ambience throughout the entire song. Great for those chill photos, whether it’s of you, or not.

10. “Massive” – Drake (rap/R&B)

I’m not usually a fan of Drake, but I like this track. It’s different for him. It taps into EDM and dance-pop while maintaining that R&B, sultry rap sound that Drake is so well known for. Good to use on an Instagram story being posted from a club.

11. “BREAK MY SOUL” – Beyoncé (pop)

This track is heard in every bar and club across the Eastern music sphere. A steady dance-beat, with Beyonce’s iconic vocals. What more could you ask for? This song is perfect for those blurry club shots.

12. “Conceited” – Flo Milli (rap)

Feeling like that b*tch and want the world to know? Look no further – use this track for your Instagram stories. Deep, punching bass and drums encapsulate the essence of rap with a big and bold attitude from Flo Milli that will get you hyped to feel good about yourself.

13. “This Hell” – Rina Sawayama (pop)

I often get sick of others’ opinions being forced onto my life and the way I choose to live it – and this song captures that essence, without making it angry. Rina Sawayama adds a little bit of spice by adding a happy tone, telling the target of her affection that “This hell is better with you.” Perfect for pictures and videos of you and your boo.

14. “Where Are You” – PinkPantheress ft. WILLOW (pop)

I’ve really taken a liking to WILLOW recently –and I really like the way she features in this song. While the track has an upbeat backbeat, there’s a sense of gentleness and calmness to the guitars and PinkPantheress’s vocals that keep the song balanced. Late-night drives, a bit of sad feeling lingering – this song would be perfect in the background.

15. “American Teenager” – Ethel Cain (indie)

One of the slower tracks on this list, Ethel Cain crafts an indie-pop song that so many people will be able to relate to during their teenage years. I really enjoy the synths in the song and think it would suit school or university throwbacks, or perfect for those moodier shots and videos.

16. “About Damn Time” – Lizzo (pop)

Even among the controversy, whether or not you’ve listened to the song front to back, I’m sure you’re familiar with the iconic second verse of this song. Just a well-constructed pop song that’s easily ‘meme’-able and perfect for a sassy picture, video or two.

17. “First Class” – Jack Harlow (rap)

A smooth, rap song is never amiss. Jack Harlow is easily one of my favourite rappers at the moment, and the track that started it all is truly one of his best. Looking to be a little on the noise? Use this song on your Instagram stories if you’re looking to show off – clothes, shoes, jewellery – this song will do just what you want it to.

18. “As It Was” – Harry Styles (pop)

I would argue that “As It Was” was probably the most famous song to come out of the last 5 years and not annoy me, even after it’s been overplayed. Styles has a good voice, but I don’t need to tell you that. Perfect for when you’re posting photos or videos from Love on Tour.

19. “Big Energy Remix” – Latto ft. Mariah Carey and DJ Khaled (pop)

Gotta love a good Mariah Carey whistle tone to open up a song. Again, another TikTok song went viral, but the song does work well for Instagram stories featuring fun, party images or videos. This song is going to get stuck in my head for the rest of the week.

20. “Used To Know Me” by Charli XCX (pop)

This is an excellent quality pop song and there’s nothing you can say to change my mind. It has a catchy hook, and it’s not too repetitive, with development throughout each part of the song. Sometimes the best songs are the simplest. Due to the electronic production, I’d recommend this song for party images or videos.

21. “CHICKEN TERIYAKI” by Rosalia (Spanish)

It’s a fun name for a song, I won’t lie. Another song that highlights the Spanish language in mainstream music and gives it an identity outside of the outdated stereotype of what Spanish music is. Due to the name, I have to suggest that it would be a great song for food videos and pics.

22. “jealousy” – FKA twigs ft. Rema (trap)

Sometimes a simple trap song in the background of your Instagram stories is all you need. As I’ve said about the last song, sometimes a simple song is all you need. Perfect for videos and pictures of you and your boo.

23. “Sunroof” – Nicky Youre ft. dazy (pop)

A viral TikTok song is the best way to get people’s attention – the familiarity of the music will cause people to pause. That’s all you need. Have a photo you want to ensure people don’t skip past your stories? Add “Sunroof” to it.

24. “Silk Chiffon” – MUNA ft. Phoebe Bridgers (indie/pop)

The song is reminiscent of the early 2000s, nostalgic soft rock that was often used in teen films and television shows. This song would suit throwback photos, as well as just a sunny day in the park or on the beach.

25. “Take My Breath” – The Weeknd (R&B)

The Weeknd is at the top of the R&B scene after more than six years. His use of 70s synth in this song is particularly addictive, but the funky bassline just adds something special. This feels like a late-night song – doesn’t matter what it’s of, as long as the sky is dark in the video or picture, this perfect will suit perfectly.

26. “Kiss Me More” – Doja Cat ft. SZA (rap)

“Kiss Me More” was one of those songs to be the first to ever go viral due to TikTok. And for good reason – the use of rap vocals over indie, sparkly guitars is a new take on rap music, which I love. As long as you have pink somewhere in your story, this song is exactly what you’re looking for.

27. “Peaches” – Justin Bieber ft. Daniel Caeser and Giveon (pop)

“Peaches” has a great opening line and draws the listener in. There’s also something inherently catchy about the track. So, if you want to make sure people see your story, I would use something as recognisable and capturing as “Peaches.”

28. “Best Friend” – Saweetie ft. Doja Cat (rap)

There’s genuinely no song better to put over a picture of you and your best friend than this one. Whether it’s a video of you guys looking cute, looking fierce, doing something stupid, a random or birthday tribute – this song will fit no matter what.

29. “Rain on Me” – Lady Gaga ft. Ariana Grande (pop)

I’ve noticed a bit of a resurgence when it comes to early 2010s dance synths in pop music, but everything is cyclical. And you can never go wrong with Gaga – add Ariana Grande, and it’s a perfect harmony. For a literal rainy story, this is perfect. Or, a video of you dancing in a club. It’s incredibly versatile.

30. “Levitating” – Dua Lipa (pop)

Dua Lipa is probably the queen of writing a danceable pop hit, especially with her massive 70s and 80s influence on her instrumentals, talking about music cycles. I love the idea of using Dua Lipa in story posts of yourself because she embodies confidence.

31. “Savage” – Megan Thee Stallion (rap)

Perhaps a tad overplayed, “Savage” is there with Doja Cat as one of the first artists to have their tracks go viral due to TikTok. When you boil down the lyrics, all in all, the song is about being confident in yourself. And knowing your worth. So, this song along with “Levitating” would be perfect for your stories when you’re feeling confident.

32. “Life Is Good” (Remix) – Future ft. Drake (rap)

Industry titan Drake features on “Life Is Good” with Future and you simply can’t go wrong with this song. Heard in nightclubs and over social media for months, it’s an instantly recognisable track. Perfect for stories showing off your lifestyle and accomplishments.

33. “Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd (R&B)

The Weeknd is another one of these industry titans that as soon as they release a single, it’s guaranteed to one, be good, and two, top the charts. The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” is another instantly recognisable track with addictive punching 80s synths elevated by modern production and techniques perfect for club and party pictures.

34. “Motivation” – Normani (pop)

Add “Motivation” to the list of confident songs, Normani’s track is sensual and exciting, invoking that feeling of sexiness and confidence. Perfect for again, those unbeatable pictures of yourself on your story. Bask in your vanity for a minute – it’s allowed, especially if it has “Motivation” over the top of it.

35. “bad guy” – Billie Eilish (pop)

Another borderline overplayed track, but still iconic within its own rights, I personally love the intro of the song, and the intensity of the beat. The harmonies are haunting in the first verse, and the song is methodically produced. What’s not to like? Perfect for any video or picture that has any kind of black or darkness to it.

36. “thank u, next” – Ariana Grande (pop)

This song is an instant reminder of my days partying in college, and hearing this in every place I ever seemed to walk into. A feminist anthem, if you ask me. Perfect for if you’ve just gone through a breakup, and you’re debuting to the world as single again.

37. “I Like It” – Cardi B ft. Bad Bunny and J. Balvin (rap)

Right there with “thank u, next,” “I Like It” is another party track. Channelling some Spanish influence with her fiery rap track, Cardi B boasts a lavish lifestyle – because if you have it, why not flaunt it? Perfect for showing off those assets you worked for.

38. “Make Me Feel” – Janelle Monáe (pop/funk)

Tucked away in the year 2018, while this song isn’t incredibly recent, it’s too good of a song not to mention. A funky pop song, Janelle Monáe was endorsed by Prince before his passing, and it’s obvious why. An amazing revival of funk in a pop song –I recommend this track for any artsy Instagram stories.

39. “Wild Thoughts” – DJ Khaled ft. Rihanna and Bryson Tiller (R&B)

Since Rihanna hasn’t released music in years, we’re forced to resort to years ago – but it will suffice. It is in fact, Rihanna. And “Wild Thoughts” still does it for me after all of these years (it was only six years ago, but still). Perfect for those sexy stories.

40. “Good As Hell” – Lizzo (pop)

Even though the track was actually released four years before it went viral, it will probably end up timeless. Used in adverts, sports games, dances, parties – Lizzo’s “Good As Hell” embodies confidence as well as Dua Lipa’s “Levitating” and Normani’s “Motivation.”

41. “Formation” – Beyoncé (pop)

Of course, Beyoncé was going to feature on this list –”Formation” is an excellent track that talks about working incredibly hard for what you have. The backbeat is quite eccentric and different for Beyoncé, but it’s great for an Instagram story for ladies announcing an accomplishment or a promotion.

42. “Feeling Myself” – Nicki Minaj ft. Beyoncé (rap/pop)

“Feeling Myself” is obviously about one thing. Confidence. And this track has it. Pair it with the confident picture or video of yourself that you want the world to see and watch the views roll in.

43. “We Can’t Stop” – Miley Cyrus (pop)

A quintessential party track, “We Can’t Stop” is amazing for those messy nights that you’re secretly proud of and had so much fun during. Pair this with a picture or video of someone spilling drinks, dancing on tabletops, or stumbling home.

44. “I Love It” –Iconca Pop ft. Charli XCX (pop)

“I Love It” represents a simpler time for all of us – 2012. This track is also nostalgic – so, add to it your Instagram story for maximum effect. Whether it’s a picture of you with your friends, partying or just hanging out – it’s perfect for any picture with your group.

45. “Bad Girls” – MIA (pop)

Arguably the oldest track on the list, its refound popularity is due to social media. While the song definitely teeters on the edge of cheesy, the verses keep it from going too over the edge. Want to add a bit of humour to your Instagram story? This will do just that.

46. “Leave The Door Open” – Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, and Silk Sonic (R&B)

For those solitude nights where the vibe is just right and you want to capture the essence of the feeling – this is a great track to throw on top. Whether it’s a sexy or a chill mood, you can never go wrong with Bruno Mars.

47. “Music For a Sushi Restaurant” – Harry Styles (pop)

Harry Styles is one of the biggest pop stars in the world – it’s impossible to scroll through social media without hearing one of his songs. I’ve always loved “Music For a Sushi Restaurant” because of its uniqueness and funkiness – he’s bringing a more eccentric, funky side to modern pop music and I love it.

48. “INDUSTRY BABY” – Lil Nas X ft. Jack Harlow (rap)

While the song and its video were controversial to some on release, it’s an undeniably good song with a catchy chorus and an incredible feature from Jack Harlow. The two definitely deserve their flowers for this track. Perfect for those victories you want to celebrate on your Instagram stories.

49. “Golden” – Harry Styles (pop)

“Golden” showcases a soft side of Harry Styles that I love. It has a lot of orchestration, which I find particularly likeable about this song. I love the tenderness and kindness of the lyrics and the gentle instrumentation with a heavy emphasis on the vocals is a clever way to highlight those lyrics. Perfect for those posts for your significant other.

50. “Swimming Pools (Dank)” – Kendrick Lamar (rap)

The deep muffled, distorted synth throughout the entire track combines with a beat that makes it easy to bob your head while still feeling relaxed. For those chill nights in, whether or not you’re with your friend, and you want something to convey the chill feeling – try featuring the second verse. It’ll convey that relaxation perfectly.

51. “Anyone” – Justin Bieber (pop)

I’ve always felt bad for Justin Bieber – thrust into superstardom as a young child, taught not to trust others from a young age. This song breaks my heart and mends it at the same time – learning to love and trust again. A perfect song to convey the love for your S.O. on your Instagram story.

52. “Dynamite” – BTS (K-pop)

BTS rules Twitter in all honesty – well, their fans rule Twitter. “Dynamite” is a feel-good track that would be perfect to post with a video or a picture of a sunny day. With power piano chords and a heavy emphasis on light synth, the sparkly guitars add to the lightness of the song.

53. “Chandelier” – Sia (pop)

I’ll admit – I have to try and separate art from the artist when it comes to Sia, so I can’t deny that “Chandelier” is actually a really good song. The vocals and the power behind them, the staunch synths, the emotions… it’s perfect for posting with pictures and videos reminiscing on fun times.

54. “New Person, Same Old Mistakes” – Tame Impala (indie)

The distorted bass in this track creates a certain headbobbing quality, with airy, gentle vocals to guide you through the psychedelic synths. There’s a lot going on in this song, but it’s harmonious. Perfect for those artsy moments you want to document.

55. “Loyalty” – Kendrick Lamar ft. Rihanna (rap)

The hook in “Loyalty” is killer and Lamar’s lyrical content is unmatched. I love the complex and in-depth dissection of love. Another song that would be good to post with a picture or video of your significant other.

56. “3005’” – Childish Gambino (rap)

Released in 2014, “3005” is a beautiful tribute to Childish Gambino’s younger sister and learning how to combat his own fears in order to be there for her. A great song for any kind of family photos or videos.

57. “Everybody Talks” – Neon Trees (pop)

For those goofy nights with your friends that make you feel like you’re in an early 2000s movie, this is a great song to represent those moments. Pictures or videos of the night with the fun guitar riff over the top will work really well.

58. “Paper Planes” – M.I.A. (pop)

Okay, I won’t lie –I thought this song was released recently, not 14 years ago. That’s how well the song has aged. Maybe use this one for throwbacks looking at how far you’ve come and the dreams you’ve managed to achieve.

59. “Where Is My Mind?” – Pixies (rock)

Actually, this is the oldest track on this list, but it went viral within the last few years due to the recognisable lead guitar throughout the entire song. It’s haunting and mesmerising, and there’s something about this song that makes me feel so… contemplative.

60. “Sunflower” – Rex Orange County

A smooth indie song that would be perfect over a video from a car, looking at the sun setting in the distance. Whether you’re in the city, in the mountains, along the coast – as long as you can see the sun, and the wind is blowing through your hair, this song will fit just right.

FAQs

What is a good song to put on an Instagram story?

Elite Daily claims that Dua Lipa’s “Levitating” is one of the best songs to put over your Instagram story. But, if you’re into classics, Neil Young’s “Harvest Moon” and Phil Collins’s “In The Air Tonight” are also good songs to put on your Instagram story.

What is the most popular song on Instagram?

In the beginning of 2023, Dash Hudson reported that Harry Styles’ “As It Was” was used almost 3.5 million times. Just for some perspective – that’s in less than a year. It wouldn’t be surprising to find out the song has been used a lot more since then.

How do I find the perfect song for my story?

There’s a multitude of methods. Try thinking of one word you want to use to convey your image – then, choose two other words you’d like featured. For example – the first word is ‘party,’ the second ‘drink,’ and the third is ‘dark.’ (If you’re looking for a song like this, RAYE’s ‘Escapism.’ with 070 Shake is a good one). Then, you can do several things. Look up those words in Google and combine them with ‘song,’ or search your own music library for songs containing those words, or scroll through playlists that use those words in the title. Happy searching!