The TikTok platform has become the ultimate launchpad for viral music hits in 2025, transforming unknown tracks into global sensations overnight. From nostalgic throwbacks to fresh releases, the best TikTok songs have shaped modern pop culture and dominated streaming charts worldwide. Whether you’re looking to discover the catchiest hooks or understand which tracks defined this year’s social media landscape, this comprehensive guide explores the songs that captured millions of hearts and sparked countless dance challenges.
“Paint The Town Red” by Doja Cat
Doja Cat’s “Paint The Town Red” became an unstoppable force on TikTok, sampling Dionne Warwick’s classic “Walk On By” and transforming it into a confident anthem. The track went viral thanks to its bold lyrics and infectious beat, inspiring thousands of confidence-boosting videos and transformation content. Users embraced the song’s empowering message, creating everything from fashion reveal videos to comeback narratives that resonated with the platform’s creative community.
“Vampire” by Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo’s emotionally charged ballad “Vampire” captivated TikTok users with its raw vulnerability and powerful vocal delivery. The song’s dramatic lyrics about betrayal and heartbreak sparked a wave of storytelling videos where creators shared their own experiences with toxic relationships. The track’s cinematic quality made it perfect for dramatic lip-sync performances, helping it accumulate billions of views across the platform and solidifying Rodrigo’s status as Gen Z’s voice.
“Cruel Summer” by Taylor Swift
Though originally released years ago, Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer” experienced a massive resurgence on TikTok this year, proving the platform’s power to revive beloved tracks. The bridge section became particularly viral, with users creating emotional montages and sing-along videos that showcased the song’s timeless appeal. This renewed popularity pushed the song to the top of global charts, demonstrating how TikTok can breathe new life into catalog music and introduce classic hits to younger audiences.
“Cupid (Twin Version)” by FIFTY FIFTY
The K-pop group FIFTY FIFTY achieved unprecedented viral success with “Cupid,” particularly the sped-up Twin Version that dominated TikTok feeds. The song’s dreamy melody and relatable lyrics about yearning for love created the perfect soundtrack for romantic montages and crush-related content. Its catchy “I’m feeling lonely” hook became instantly recognizable, propelling the relatively unknown group to international stardom and proving TikTok’s role as a global music discovery platform.
“Flowers” by Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus delivered an empowerment anthem with “Flowers,” which quickly became TikTok’s self-love soundtrack of the year. The song’s message about independence and self-sufficiency resonated deeply with users who created videos celebrating personal growth and moving on from past relationships. The iconic “I can buy myself flowers” lyric sparked countless creative interpretations, from literal flower-buying content to broader narratives about self-care and independence that encouraged millions to embrace their own worth.
“Unholy” by Sam Smith featuring Kim Petras
Sam Smith and Kim Petras created TikTok gold with “Unholy,” a provocative track that inspired dramatic storytelling and creative choreography across the platform. The song’s pulsating beat and scandalous narrative about infidelity provided the perfect backdrop for plot-twist videos and theatrical performances. Users particularly gravitated toward the song’s infectious “mummy don’t know daddy’s getting hot” hook, which became a cultural moment that transcended the platform and dominated mainstream conversation.
“Calm Down” by Rema featuring Selena Gomez
Rema’s Afrobeats masterpiece “Calm Down” achieved global domination through TikTok, with the Selena Gomez remix amplifying its reach exponentially. The song’s smooth rhythm and romantic lyrics inspired countless dance challenges that showcased the infectious energy of Afrobeats music. Its crossover appeal bridged cultural boundaries, introducing Western audiences to African music’s vibrant soundscape while cementing the song’s position as one of the year’s most-played tracks on the platform.
“Snooze” by SZA
SZA’s “Snooze” became TikTok’s ultimate love song, with its dreamy production and devoted lyrics capturing the platform’s romantic imagination. The track inspired tender couple content, relationship appreciation posts, and heartfelt dedications that showcased the depth of modern love. Users connected with SZA’s vulnerable delivery and the song’s message about unwavering commitment, making it a staple soundtrack for songs that celebrate genuine connection and emotional intimacy.
“Area Codes” by Kali
Kali’s breakout hit “Area Codes” took TikTok by storm with its confident energy and catchy production that perfectly encapsulated modern dating culture. The song’s narrative about romantic options across different cities resonated with young users navigating contemporary relationships. Its playful tone and memorable hook made it ideal for comedic skits about dating mishaps, travel content, and confidence-building videos that celebrated independence and self-assurance in the digital age.
“Escapism” by RAYE featuring 070 Shake
RAYE’s emotionally raw “Escapism” provided TikTok users with a brutally honest soundtrack about heartbreak and self-destructive coping mechanisms. The song’s confessional lyrics about seeking temporary relief from emotional pain struck a chord with audiences who appreciated its vulnerability. Users created deeply personal videos sharing their own experiences with heartbreak and healing, while the track’s catchy yet melancholic production made it perfect for reflective content that explored the complexity of moving forward after loss.
“Kill Bill” by SZA
SZA dominated TikTok once again with “Kill Bill,” a darkly humorous take on post-breakup jealousy that inspired creative and theatrical content across the platform. The song’s Tarantino-inspired title and vengeful lyrics provided endless material for comedic skits, dramatic performances, and relatable relationship content. Its blend of R&B smoothness with edgy subject matter created a unique viral moment, with users appreciating SZA’s ability to make even the messiest emotions sound beautiful and universally understood.
“Seven” by Jung Kook featuring Latto
BTS member Jung Kook’s solo debut “Seven” featuring Latto became an instant TikTok sensation with its romantic devotion and infectious summer vibe. The song’s promise of love “seven days a week” inspired couple content, relationship goals videos, and dance challenges that showcased its upbeat energy. Jung Kook’s massive global fanbase helped propel the track to viral status, while its universally appealing message about constant affection resonated far beyond the K-pop community.
“Barbie World” by Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice featuring Aqua
The “Barbie” movie phenomenon found its perfect TikTok anthem in Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice’s “Barbie World,” which sampled Aqua’s iconic 1997 hit. The track became synonymous with the pink-themed cultural moment, inspiring fashion content, movie reviews, and nostalgic tributes to Barbie culture. Users embraced the song’s playful energy and feminist undertones, creating everything from makeup tutorials to empowerment videos that celebrated the Barbie movie’s impact on popular culture and female representation.
“What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s introspective ballad “What Was I Made For?” from the Barbie soundtrack offered TikTok a moment of vulnerability amid the platform’s typically upbeat content. The song’s existential questioning and stripped-back production resonated with users experiencing quarter-life crises and identity exploration. Its emotional depth made it perfect for reflective videos about purpose, growth, and self-discovery, proving that even on a platform known for trends and dances, deeply personal and melancholic music could find its audience and create meaningful connections.
“Sprinter” by Dave and Central Cee
UK rap heavyweights Dave and Central Cee delivered “Sprinter,” which became TikTok’s soundtrack for confident, fast-paced lifestyle content. The track’s energetic production and clever wordplay inspired videos showcasing hustle culture, success journeys, and motivational content. Its British grime influence introduced international audiences to UK rap’s distinctive sound, while the song’s references to luxury and ambition resonated with creators building their personal brands and celebrating achievements across various fields.
“Colombia” by Luar La L
Dominican dembow artist Luar La L’s “Colombia” brought Latin urban music to TikTok’s forefront with its infectious rhythm and party-ready energy. The song inspired countless dance challenges that highlighted dembow’s distinctive bounce and showcased Latin American dance culture. Its viral success demonstrated TikTok’s role in globalizing regional music genres, with users from diverse backgrounds learning the choreography and celebrating the vibrant sounds of Caribbean and Latin American music communities.
“greedy” by Tate McRae
Rising pop star Tate McRae scored a major TikTok hit with “greedy,” a confident pop banger about knowing your worth and demanding better. The song’s empowering message and dance-pop production made it perfect for transformation content, confidence-building videos, and relationship boundary-setting narratives. McRae’s background as a dancer particularly resonated on the platform, with her own choreography inspiring thousands of user-generated dance videos that helped propel the track to mainstream success and establish her as a pop force.
“LALA” by Myke Towers
PuertoIcan rapper Myke Towers’ “LALA” became a Latin trap anthem on TikTok, with its hypnotic beat and smooth flow creating the perfect backdrop for lifestyle and party content. The song’s mellow yet engaging production made it versatile for various video types, from workout clips to night-out preparations. Its success highlighted the growing dominance of Latin urban music on global platforms, with users appreciating the genre’s ability to blend street credibility with melodic accessibility that transcends language barriers.
“Northern Attitude” by Noah Kahan featuring Hozier
Noah Kahan’s collaboration with Hozier on “Northern Attitude” brought folk-inspired storytelling to TikTok, resonating with users seeking authentic and emotionally grounded music. The song’s contemplative lyrics about small-town life and personal struggles created intimate connections with audiences tired of overly polished pop production. Its acoustic warmth and honest songwriting inspired reflective content about home, identity, and the complexities of growing up, proving that even on a platform dominated by high-energy trends, thoughtful music finds its devoted audience.
“Get Him Back!” by Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo closed out her year of TikTok dominance with “Get Him Back!,” a cleverly ambiguous anthem about wanting revenge or reconciliation with an ex. The song’s dual meaning inspired creative interpretations, with users making videos exploring both the vengeful and romantic readings of the title. Its pop-punk energy and witty lyricism perfectly captured the contradictory emotions of post-breakup feelings, making it relatable for millions experiencing the messy reality of moving on while still harboring complicated feelings.
The impact of these TikTok songs extends far beyond the platform itself, influencing radio playlists, streaming charts, and even how artists approach music creation and promotion. Many musicians now specifically craft songs with TikTok virality in mind, focusing on catchy hooks and memorable moments that can spark trends. For those interested in experiencing these viral hits with optimal audio quality, exploring options for compare earbuds can enhance your listening experience significantly.
The democratization of music discovery through TikTok has fundamentally changed the industry landscape, allowing artists from all backgrounds and regions to find global audiences without traditional gatekeepers. From K-pop groups to Latin trap artists, from mainstream pop stars to indie singer-songwriters, the platform has proven that great music transcends borders and marketing budgets. This year’s viral songs represent not just catchy melodies but cultural moments that brought millions together through shared experiences and creative expression.
As we reflect on the songs that dominated TikTok this year, it becomes clear that the platform serves as both a mirror and a megaphone for global youth culture. These tracks didn’t just soundtrack videos—they sparked conversations, created communities, and provided the backdrop for countless personal moments that users chose to share with the world. Whether through dance challenges, emotional storytelling, or comedic skits, each song on this list contributed to the rich tapestry of content that makes TikTok such a powerful cultural force.
The production quality and listening experience of these viral hits matter tremendously to dedicated music fans who want to appreciate every detail. For audiophiles seeking to hear these tracks as the artists intended, checking out comopare headphones can help identify equipment that delivers premium sound quality. The right audio setup allows listeners to catch subtle production choices, vocal nuances, and instrumental layers that might be missed through standard device speakers.
Looking ahead, the songs that dominated TikTok this year will likely influence music trends for years to come, shaping what artists create and how audiences consume music. The platform’s ability to make or break careers overnight has created a new paradigm in the music industry, where a fifteen-second clip can be more valuable than a radio campaign. As streaming services, record labels, and artists themselves adapt to this reality, TikTok’s role as the primary discovery platform for new music seems only set to grow stronger.
These twenty songs represent diverse genres, cultures, and artistic visions, united by their ability to capture attention in an era of endless scrolling and shortened attention spans. From emotional ballads to high-energy bangers, from established superstars to breakthrough artists, this year’s TikTok hits demonstrate that great music still has the power to stop people mid-scroll and create genuine moments of connection. As we continue into the future, these tracks will be remembered not just as viral sensations but as the soundtrack to a year of cultural evolution and digital creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a song go viral on TikTok?
A song typically goes viral on TikTok when it features a catchy hook, relatable lyrics, or a memorable beat that inspires creative content and challenges. The most successful tracks often have a specific moment—usually 15-30 seconds—that’s perfect for short-form video content and easily adaptable to various trends. Additionally, songs that evoke strong emotions, whether joy, nostalgia, or empowerment, tend to resonate more deeply with users who want to express themselves through the music they choose.
How does TikTok influence music charts and streaming numbers?
TikTok has become one of the most powerful drivers of music consumption globally, with viral songs frequently jumping to the top of Spotify, Apple Music, and Billboard charts. When a song trends on TikTok, it typically sees massive increases in streaming numbers, radio play requests, and overall cultural visibility. Record labels now actively monitor TikTok trends to identify potential hits, and many artists have been signed to major deals based solely on their TikTok success.
Can older songs become viral on TikTok?
Absolutely—TikTok has proven remarkably effective at reviving catalog tracks and introducing classic songs to new generations of listeners. Songs like Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams,” Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill,” and Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer” all experienced massive resurgences years or even decades after their original release. The platform’s algorithm doesn’t discriminate based on release date, meaning any song with the right appeal can find its moment regardless of age.
Do artists make money when their songs go viral on TikTok?
Artists earn royalties when their music is used in TikTok videos through licensing agreements between TikTok and music rights holders, though the per-use payment is relatively small. The real financial benefit comes from the increased streaming numbers, concert ticket sales, merchandise purchases, and overall career opportunities that viral TikTok success generates. Many independent artists have leveraged TikTok fame into record deals, sold-out tours, and sustainable music careers that wouldn’t have been possible through traditional promotion alone.
How can I discover new music through TikTok?
The best way to discover new music on TikTok is to explore the For You Page, follow music-focused creators who share song recommendations, and pay attention to the tracks used in videos you enjoy. You can tap on any song playing in a video to see other videos using the same track and find information about the artist. Many users also create dedicated playlists on streaming services featuring TikTok viral songs, making it easy to keep up with trending tracks and discover emerging artists.