If you have ever watched a movie or a video with background music, you’d know how much the music can impact one’s mood. It’s a powerful tool that can be used to elevate the quality of a video and amplify its message. While some music videos have music playing over them from the beginning, having the ability to embed music into any video can give it a nice rhythm and flow that can hold a viewer’s attention longer. As we all know, sight and sound work together and when they do so in perfect harmony, it can produce an unforgettable experience. In this blog post, I’ll share some methods you can use to embed music into a video, and some tips to make it look and sound professional.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before getting started, there are a few things that you’ll need:
- A video editing software
- The audio file (mp3 file of the song you want to add to the video)
- Speakers or headphones to check if the audio is synched with the video
What Requires Your Focus?
When adding background music to a video, it’s essential to ensure that the audio fits the video, doesn’t distract from the message and doesn’t overpower it. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Match the mood: The music should match the mood of the video. If it’s a sad scene, the music should also be sad.
- Timing: The music should match the timing of the video and sync with the action on screen
- Edit the audio clip: If the audio is too long or too short, you’ll need to edit it to fit the video.
- Volume: Ensure the music volume is balanced, it should be loud enough to be heard but soft enough to not take over the video.
Methods to Embed Music into a Video
Method 1: Using iMovie on a Mac
If you’re using a Mac, you’ve got access to iMovie, which is a free and easy-to-use video editing software. Here are the steps to add music to your video using iMovie:
- Open iMovie and click on "Create New"
- Select "Movie".
- Click on "Import Media" to upload your video file.
- Import your audio file by clicking on the "Music Note" icon in the top left corner of the screen.
- Drag the audio file to the timeline, below the video.
- Use the audio editing tools to trim the audio to fit the length of the video.
- Adjust the volume of the audio so it sounds balanced with the video.
- Preview the video with the music, make any additional tweaks, and then export the video with audio included.
Pros: iMovie is free and easy-to-use software that is pre-installed on all Mac computers.
Cons: iMovie may not be as sophisticated as some of the other video editing software out there.
Method 2: Using Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the most widely-used video editing software programs, and comes with a lot of features that allow you to fine-tune your videos and audio. Here are the steps to add music to your video using Adobe Premiere Pro:
- Create a new project by clicking on "New Project"
- Import the video and audio files into the project by clicking on "Import Media"
- Drag the video file you want to edit down to the timeline.
- Drag the audio file to the timeline, below the video.
- Use the audio editing tools to trim the audio to fit the length of the video.
- Adjust the volume of the audio so it sounds balanced with the video.
- Preview the video with the music, make any additional tweaks, and then export the video with audio included.
Pros: Adobe Premiere Pro is a professional-level video editing software that offers a ton of features and flexibility.
Cons: Adobe Premiere Pro is a paid program that may not be accessible to everyone. It also has a steeper learning curve than other video editing software programs.
Method 3: Using an Online Video Editor
If you’re looking for a free option that doesn’t require any software downloads, you can use an online video editor that allows you to edit videos and add music. Here are the steps to add music to your video using an online video editor:
- Select an online video editor like WeVideo, Kapwing or Magisto
- Open the online editor and create a new project.
- Upload the video file you want to edit.
- Select the audio file from your computer
- Drag and drop the audio file onto the timeline below the video.
- Trim the audio to fit the length of the video.
- Adjust the volume of the audio so it sounds balanced with the video.
- Preview the video with the music, make any additional tweaks, and then export the video with audio included.
Pros: Using an online video editor is free and doesn’t require any software downloads.
Cons: Depending on the online editor you select, there may be limitations on the features and quality of the videos you can create.
Why Can’t I Embed Music into My Video?
After trying some of the methods listed above, you may still be experiencing issues embedding music into your video. Here are some common reasons why you may be having trouble and how to fix them:
1. Unsupported file format: Make sure the audio file is in a supported format (like mp3).
2. Encryption: If the audio file is encrypted, you won’t be able to add it to your video.
3. Corrupted file: If the audio file is corrupt, you won’t be able to embed it in your video. Try re-downloading the file.
4. High-quality audio: Very high-quality audio files may not be compatible with video editing software programs. Try a different quality of the file.
Implications and Recommendations
When adding music to a video, it’s important to consider the legal implications of using copyrighted music. If you’re not sure whether you have the right to use a particular piece of music, it’s best to err on the side of caution and select music that is licensed for commercial use.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that the music you choose can significantly impact the tone and mood of your video. So, take your time to select the right music that not only fits your video but also enhances its message.
FAQs
Q: How do I avoid the music drowning out the other sounds in my video?
A: Use audio editing tools to balance the sound of the music with the sound of the spoken words or other audio in the video.
Q: How do I ensure that the music is in sync with the video?
A: Preview the video several times while playing the audio, making adjustments to match the timing as needed.
Q: Can I use any music I want for my video?
A: No, if the music is copyrighted you’ll need to secure the proper licenses or use music that is licensed for commercial use.
Q: What are some good websites where I can find free music for my videos?
A: Some good websites include: Free Music Archive, SoundCloud, and YouTube Audio Library.
Q: How important is it to have music in my video?
A: While music isn’t required to make a great video, it can add an extra layer of emotion, depth, and flow that can keep viewers engaged for longer.
In Conclusion
Embedding music into a video can really help to set the tone and mood. With the various methods covered in this post, you should have enough options available to find a solution that works for you. Keep in mind that embedding music can have legal implications so it’s important to ensure that you have the proper licenses or use music that is licensed for commercial use. With these tips and tricks, you’re well on your way to creating polished videos that are sure to delight your audience.