How to Put Lyrics in Your TikTok Video: A Complete Guide

Understanding the Importance of Lyrics in TikTok Videos

When you think of TikTok, the first thing that comes to mind is probably music. The platform is synonymous with short, catchy music clips that often go viral. But why should you add lyrics to your TikTok videos? Lyrics not only enhance the storytelling aspect of your video but also make it accessible to a broader audience. For instance, viewers who are hard of hearing can still enjoy the video if they can read the lyrics. Moreover, having the lyrics on-screen allows viewers to sing along, which can significantly increase engagement rates. Studies have shown that videos with on-screen text tend to perform better than those without, as they capture the viewer's attention more effectively.

Choosing the Right Tools for Adding Lyrics

Before you start, it's essential to choose the right tool for adding lyrics to your TikTok video. Several apps and software are available that can help you achieve this, each with its own set of features and capabilities. Here's a breakdown of some popular options:

1. InShot: InShot is a user-friendly video editing app that allows you to add text, filters, and effects to your videos. It offers a wide range of font styles and animations, making it an excellent choice for adding lyrics.

2. CapCut: CapCut, developed by ByteDance (the same company that owns TikTok), is another powerful tool for adding text to your videos. It offers advanced features like keyframe animation, which allows you to sync the lyrics precisely with the music.

3. Adobe Premiere Rush: If you're looking for more advanced editing features, Adobe Premiere Rush is a great option. While it may have a steeper learning curve, it offers unparalleled customization options for adding text and effects to your videos.

4. TikTok's Built-In Text Feature: For quick edits, TikTok's built-in text feature is a convenient option. While it may not offer the same level of customization as third-party apps, it's perfect for adding simple text overlays to your videos.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Lyrics

Now that you've chosen your tool, let's dive into the step-by-step process of adding lyrics to your TikTok video.

1. Select Your Song: The first step is to choose the song you want to use in your video. Make sure the song is available on TikTok, as this will make it easier to sync the lyrics with the music.

2. Create Your Video: Record your video using the TikTok app or any video recording app of your choice. Ensure that the video aligns with the song's rhythm and beats, as this will make it easier to sync the lyrics later.

3. Add the Song to Your Video: If you're using a third-party app like InShot or CapCut, import the song into the app and add it to your video timeline. If you're using TikTok's built-in features, you can add the song directly within the app.

4. Add the Lyrics: Now comes the crucial part—adding the lyrics. Depending on the tool you're using, this step may vary slightly:

   • InShot: Go to the "Text" section, choose your font, and start typing the lyrics. You can adjust the timing by dragging the text along the timeline.
   • CapCut: Use the "Text" feature to add lyrics. With CapCut, you can add keyframes to animate the text, making it move in sync with the music.
   • Adobe Premiere Rush: Import the text as a separate layer on the timeline and adjust its duration to match the music. Premiere Rush also allows you to add effects like fades and transitions to the text.
   • TikTok's Built-In Feature: Tap on "Text" while editing your video, choose your font and color, and type in the lyrics. You can adjust the duration of the text by tapping and dragging it along the timeline.

5. Sync the Lyrics with the Music: This is arguably the most important step. You want the lyrics to appear on-screen exactly when they're sung in the song. To do this, listen to the song carefully and note down the timestamps where each line begins. Then, adjust the timing of the text in your video accordingly.

6. Preview and Edit: Once you've added the lyrics, preview your video to ensure everything is in sync. Make any necessary adjustments to the timing, font size, or color.

7. Add Effects and Filters: To make your video more visually appealing, consider adding effects and filters. Many video editing apps offer a variety of effects that can enhance the overall look of your video.

8. Save and Upload: After you're satisfied with your video, save it and upload it to TikTok. Make sure to use relevant hashtags and captions to increase the visibility of your video.

Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your TikTok Videos

While the steps above will help you add lyrics to your TikTok videos, here are some additional tips to take your content to the next level:

1. Choose the Right Font: The font you choose for your lyrics can significantly impact the video's aesthetic. Opt for a font that is easy to read and matches the tone of the song. For example, a playful, bubbly font might work well for a pop song, while a more elegant font might be better suited for a ballad.

2. Use Text Animations Sparingly: While text animations can add a dynamic element to your video, using too many can make it look cluttered. Stick to one or two simple animations that enhance the lyrics without overwhelming the viewer.

3. Color Contrast: Make sure the text color contrasts well with the background. If your video has a dark background, use a light-colored font, and vice versa. This will ensure that the lyrics are easy to read.

4. Keep it Short: TikTok videos are meant to be short and engaging, so don't overload your video with too much text. Focus on the most impactful lines of the song, or use the chorus, which is often the catchiest part.

5. Use Trending Songs: TikTok thrives on trends, and using a trending song can increase the chances of your video going viral. Keep an eye on the platform's trending page to see which songs are currently popular.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As with any creative process, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for when adding lyrics to your TikTok videos:

1. Overloading the Video with Text: One of the most common mistakes is adding too much text to the video. This can make it difficult for viewers to follow along and detracts from the overall viewing experience.

2. Poor Syncing: If the lyrics aren't synced correctly with the music, it can be jarring for the viewer. Take your time to ensure that each line of text appears on-screen at the right moment.

3. Inconsistent Font Sizes: Using different font sizes for different parts of the lyrics can create a disjointed look. Stick to a consistent font size throughout the video for a more polished appearance.

4. Ignoring Accessibility: While it might be tempting to use fancy fonts and colors, remember that not all viewers will find these easy to read. Consider the accessibility of your text, and make sure it's legible for all viewers.

Final Thoughts

Adding lyrics to your TikTok videos is a powerful way to enhance your content and engage with your audience. Whether you're lip-syncing, creating a music video, or simply adding text for emphasis, the right lyrics can make your video more memorable and shareable. By choosing the right tools, syncing the text carefully with the music, and paying attention to detail, you can create TikTok videos that not only capture attention but also keep viewers coming back for more. So go ahead, experiment with different styles, and find what works best for your content. Happy editing!