Mac OS · macOS
Add Music to iMovie on Mac
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
Use the Audio browser or drag a legally available audio file into the timeline, then trim, fade, and lower it so dialogue remains clear.
Choose permitted audio
Use your own recording, a licensed file, iMovie sound effects, or music you are allowed to use; protected streaming tracks may not import.
Add the track
Open Audio in iMovie or drag a supported file from Finder beneath the video clips.
Fit the edit
Trim or loop the music, move it to the intended start, and add fades at the ends.
Balance the mix
Lower music beneath speech, preview on headphones and speakers, then export an audio check.
Video walkthrough
If it does not work
- If the issue continues, record the exact error and compare it with the linked Apple Support guidance before resetting, reinstalling, changing permissions, or deleting data.
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: macOS.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.