The landscape of viral music has transformed dramatically with TikTok songs becoming the driving force behind global chart success and cultural phenomena. From bedroom producers to established superstars, artists are witnessing their tracks explode into mainstream consciousness through creative challenges, dance routines, and user-generated content that captures millions of imaginations worldwide. The platform’s algorithm has become the ultimate tastemaker, turning 15-second clips into career-defining moments and reshaping how we discover, consume, and interact with music in 2025.
APT. – ROSÉ & Bruno Mars
The collaboration between BLACKPINK’s ROSÉ and Bruno Mars has created an unprecedented viral sensation that perfectly encapsulates the power of cross-cultural musical fusion. This infectious track, inspired by a Korean drinking game, has dominated global streaming platforms with its catchy “apateu” chant becoming instantly recognizable across social media landscapes. The song’s remarkable achievement includes topping Spotify’s global charts, breaking records as one of the fastest K-pop tracks to reach one billion streams, and generating countless dance videos that showcase the perfect blend of Western pop sensibilities with Korean cultural elements. The track’s production, helmed by some of the industry’s most talented creators, demonstrates how international collaborations can transcend language barriers and create universal moments of joy that resonate across diverse audiences.
Espresso – Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter’s caffeinated anthem has become the soundtrack to millions of morning routines and energetic dance videos across the platform. The song’s clever wordplay and irresistible hook have spawned numerous trends, from transition videos to choreographed routines that showcase Carpenter’s evolution as a pop powerhouse. The track’s success story extends far beyond TikTok, climbing to the top three on the Billboard Hot 100 and spending an impressive 65 weeks on the chart, proving that viral momentum can translate into sustained commercial success. Carpenter’s strategic use of the platform to promote the song, including her own participation in trends and behind-the-scenes content, demonstrates the symbiotic relationship between artists and social media in modern music promotion.
Birds of a Feather – Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s emotionally resonant track from her album has captured hearts with its vulnerable lyrics and haunting production crafted alongside her brother FINNEAS. The song has inspired countless creative interpretations on TikTok, from emotional storytelling videos to artistic visual representations that showcase the platform’s capacity for deeper, more meaningful content beyond dance challenges. Users have embraced the track’s themes of enduring love and connection, creating content that explores relationships, family bonds, and personal growth narratives. The production process videos shared by Eilish and FINNEAS have given fans unprecedented access to their creative journey, fostering a deeper connection between artist and audience that exemplifies the transparency and authenticity valued by TikTok’s community.
HOT TO GO! – Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan’s explosive cheerleader-inspired anthem has become a cultural phenomenon, complete with its own spelling dance that rivals the iconic YMCA in terms of crowd participation and viral spread. The track represents Roan’s childhood dream of becoming a cheerleader transformed into a queer celebration of confidence and self-expression that resonates with audiences seeking authentic representation in pop music. Festival footage of massive crowds performing the H-O-T-T-O-G-O arm movements has become legendary, with Roan’s playful interactions with audiences, including her viral moment calling out VIP sections for not participating, adding to the song’s mythology. The track’s success has catapulted Roan from indie darling to mainstream sensation, proving TikTok’s power to elevate emerging artists who connect authentically with their audiences.
Good Luck, Babe! – Chappell Roan
Another triumph from Chappell Roan’s repertoire, this track showcases her ability to blend vulnerability with infectious pop sensibilities that resonate deeply with TikTok’s diverse user base. The song’s exploration of complex emotions and relationships has inspired creative storytelling content, with users creating narrative videos that capture the bittersweet essence of the track’s message. The production’s dramatic builds and emotional peaks translate perfectly to the platform’s short-form format, allowing creators to capture powerful moments within seconds. Roan’s consistent presence on TikTok, engaging directly with fans and participating in her own song trends, has created a blueprint for how emerging artists can leverage social media authenticity to build devoted fanbases.
Please Please Please – Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter’s second viral hit demonstrates her versatility as an artist and her understanding of what makes content shareable in the digital age. The track’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics have spawned numerous lip-sync trends and comedic interpretations that showcase TikTok’s ability to add layers of meaning to popular music. The song’s success has been amplified by celebrity participation and high-profile performances, including Carpenter’s mashup with Taylor Swift during the Eras Tour, creating viral moments that extend the track’s lifecycle. The strategic release and promotion of this track alongside “Espresso” showcases how artists can maintain momentum on TikTok by providing consistent content that keeps audiences engaged while allowing for creative evolution.
Die With a Smile – Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars
The powerhouse collaboration between Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars has created an emotional anthem that resonates across generations of TikTok users. This dramatic ballad showcases both artists’ vocal prowess while providing the perfect soundtrack for heartfelt content ranging from wedding videos to nostalgic compilations. The track’s record-breaking streaming numbers and chart performance demonstrate how established artists can leverage TikTok to reach new audiences while maintaining their artistic integrity. The song’s versatility has allowed creators to use it in various contexts, from romantic gestures to friendship tributes, proving that not all viral TikTok music needs to be upbeat or dance-oriented to capture the platform’s imagination.
Taste – Sabrina Carpenter
Completing Sabrina Carpenter’s TikTok trifecta, “Taste” has become a staple for food content creators and lifestyle influencers while also inspiring creative visual trends. The track’s playful energy and memorable hooks have made it perfect for transition videos and fashion content, with users showcasing transformations synced to the song’s dynamic shifts. Carpenter’s music video aesthetics have influenced countless recreations and inspired makeup tutorials, demonstrating how visual elements can enhance a song’s viral potential. The track’s performance at major award shows and inclusion in Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet Tour setlist has created additional content opportunities, with concert footage regularly going viral and extending the song’s cultural impact.
Greedy – Tate McRae
Tate McRae’s confident anthem has become the go-to soundtrack for self-empowerment content and dance challenges that showcase technical skill and attitude. The track’s production, combining contemporary pop with subtle R&B influences, creates a sonic landscape that translates perfectly to TikTok’s visual medium. McRae’s background as a dancer has influenced the choreography associated with the song, creating movements that are both accessible to casual creators and challenging enough for professional dancers to showcase their skills. The song’s message of knowing one’s worth has resonated particularly well with young audiences, inspiring content that celebrates confidence and self-assurance in various forms.
MAMUSHI – Megan Thee Stallion feat. Yuki Chiba
This groundbreaking collaboration represents the global nature of TikTok’s influence, bringing together American rap royalty with Japanese artistry to create a truly international viral moment. The track’s bilingual lyrics and cultural fusion have inspired creative content that celebrates diversity while showcasing how music can bridge geographical and linguistic divides. Megan Thee Stallion’s commanding presence combined with Yuki Chiba’s unique contribution has created a sound that feels both familiar and fresh, encouraging users to explore different cultural expressions through their content. The song’s success demonstrates TikTok’s role in facilitating cross-cultural exchange and promoting global music discovery beyond traditional Western-dominated charts.
That’s So True – Gracie Abrams
Gracie Abrams’ emotionally charged track has become the soundtrack for authentic storytelling and vulnerable content creation on the platform. The song’s introspective lyrics and delicate production provide the perfect backdrop for users sharing personal experiences, creating a sense of community through shared emotions and experiences. Abrams’ rise through TikTok showcases how the platform rewards authenticity and emotional honesty, with users gravitating toward artists who aren’t afraid to explore complex feelings in their music. The track’s success has been amplified by Abrams’ own presence on the platform, where she shares songwriting processes and connects with fans on a personal level, breaking down traditional barriers between artists and audiences.
Beautiful Things – Benson Boone
Benson Boone’s breakthrough hit exemplifies the TikTok success story, transforming from viral sensation to mainstream chart success through organic platform growth. The track’s soaring vocals and emotional depth have inspired countless covers and duets, showcasing the platform’s role in discovering and nurturing new talent. Boone’s journey from American Idol contestant to TikTok sensation to chart-topping artist represents the new pathways to success available to emerging artists in the digital age. The song’s universal themes of appreciating life’s precious moments have resonated across demographics, inspiring content that ranges from travel videos to family compilations, demonstrating music’s power to unite diverse communities.
Gata Only – FloyyMenor x Cris MJ
This reggaeton-infused track has brought Latin music to the forefront of TikTok trends, showcasing the platform’s role in amplifying diverse musical genres beyond English-language pop. The song’s infectious rhythm and memorable hooks have inspired dance challenges that celebrate Latin culture while inviting global participation in the movement. The collaboration between FloyyMenor and Cris MJ represents the new generation of Latin artists who understand how to leverage social media to reach international audiences without compromising their cultural authenticity. The track’s success has opened doors for more Latin artists on TikTok, contributing to the platform’s increasingly diverse musical landscape.
Juno – Sabrina Carpenter
Yet another entry from Sabrina Carpenter’s dominant 2025 showcases her unprecedented command of the TikTok music sphere. “Juno” brings a different energy to her catalog, with its mythological references and clever wordplay inspiring creative interpretations and educational content that goes beyond typical music promotion. The track’s production showcases Carpenter’s artistic growth and willingness to experiment with different sounds while maintaining the catchy sensibilities that make songs TikTok-friendly. Users have embraced the song’s narrative elements, creating story-time videos and artistic interpretations that demonstrate TikTok’s capacity for creative expression beyond dance challenges.
Too Sweet – Hozier
Hozier’s soulful contribution to TikTok’s soundscape proves that thoughtful, mature music can find viral success alongside more traditional pop offerings. The track’s poetic lyrics and rich instrumentation have inspired contemplative content, from aesthetic videos to literary interpretations that showcase the platform’s intellectual side. Hozier’s organic rise on TikTok, driven by genuine fan enthusiasm rather than manufactured trends, demonstrates the platform’s ability to recognize and elevate quality musicianship. The song’s success has introduced Hozier’s catalog to a new generation of listeners, proving that TikTok can serve as a discovery platform for artists across all genres and career stages.
Not Like Us – Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s powerful entry into the TikTok sphere represents hip-hop’s continued dominance on the platform while showcasing how established artists can maintain relevance in the digital age. The track’s complex lyrics and layered production have inspired analytical content, with users breaking down meanings and creating educational videos about hip-hop culture and history. Lamar’s uncompromising artistic vision translated to TikTok demonstrates that the platform can accommodate serious artistic expression alongside lighter entertainment. The song’s viral moments have often centered around specific lyrics or beats, showing how TikTok users can isolate and amplify particular elements of a track to create new meanings and contexts.
A Bar Song (Tipsy) – Shaboozey
Shaboozey’s crossover hit has become the anthem for social content and party videos, with its familiar interpolation creating instant nostalgia while introducing new elements that feel fresh and contemporary. The track’s blend of country and hip-hop influences represents the genre-blending trends that TikTok has accelerated, breaking down traditional musical boundaries. Users have embraced the song’s celebratory energy, creating content that ranges from dance challenges to comedic skits that play with the song’s themes and lyrics. The success of this track demonstrates TikTok’s power to revive and recontextualize familiar melodies, creating new cultural moments from nostalgic foundations.
Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido – KAROL G
KAROL G’s romantic ballad has become a cornerstone of Latin music’s presence on TikTok, inspiring emotional content that transcends language barriers. The track’s universal themes of love and timing have resonated with global audiences, showcasing how emotional authenticity can connect with users regardless of linguistic differences. The song’s success has been amplified by KAROL G’s strategic engagement with TikTok, including behind-the-scenes content and personal interactions that make fans feel connected to her journey. The track’s versatility has allowed it to soundtrack various types of content, from romantic declarations to nostalgic reflections, proving the universal appeal of well-crafted emotional music.
I Can Do It With a Broken Heart – Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s vulnerable yet empowering anthem has become a rallying cry for resilience on TikTok, with users creating content that celebrates perseverance through difficult times. The track’s production, combining Swift’s signature storytelling with contemporary pop sensibilities, creates multiple moments perfect for TikTok’s short-form format. Swift’s massive fanbase has created countless interpretations and tributes, from elaborate dance routines to emotional testimonials that showcase the deep connection between artist and audience. The song’s success on TikTok demonstrates how established superstars can maintain relevance on emerging platforms while staying true to their artistic vision.
Lunch – Billie Eilish
Another standout from Billie Eilish’s recent work, “Lunch” showcases her continued evolution as an artist willing to push boundaries and challenge conventions. The track’s unconventional structure and experimental production have inspired creative content that mirrors its artistic boldness, from avant-garde visual interpretations to dance challenges that break traditional molds. Eilish’s authentic presence on TikTok, sharing raw moments and creative processes, has created a template for how artists can maintain mystique while still engaging meaningfully with fans. The song’s success demonstrates TikTok’s appetite for innovative music that doesn’t conform to traditional pop formulas.
Embrace It – Sadie Jean
Sadie Jean’s breakthrough track exemplifies the platform’s power to launch new artists into mainstream consciousness through authentic emotional connection. The song’s relatable lyrics about self-acceptance and growth have inspired a movement of vulnerable content creation, with users sharing personal journeys and transformative moments. Jean’s rise from bedroom producer to TikTok sensation showcases the democratization of music discovery, where talent and authenticity can triumph without traditional industry backing. The track’s organic growth through user-generated content rather than manufactured challenges demonstrates the platform’s preference for genuine connection over forced virality.
Nasty – Tinashe
Tinashe’s confident anthem has reignited interest in her catalog while establishing her as a TikTok force to be reckoned with in 2025. The track’s bold production and unapologetic attitude have inspired dance challenges that celebrate self-confidence and personal power. Tinashe’s decade-long career has been revitalized through TikTok, proving the platform’s ability to give established artists new life and introduce them to younger audiences. The song’s choreography, often performed by Tinashe herself, has become iconic on the platform, showcasing how artists who engage directly with trends can amplify their music’s impact.
Worth It – RAYE
RAYE’s empowering anthem has become a staple for self-love and transformation content, with its message of self-worth resonating deeply with TikTok’s community. The track’s dynamic production, building from intimate verses to explosive choruses, provides perfect moments for dramatic reveals and transformation videos. RAYE’s independent success story has inspired countless creators, demonstrating that artistic freedom and commercial success aren’t mutually exclusive in the digital age. The song’s versatility has allowed it to soundtrack various content types, from makeup transformations to fitness journeys, proving its universal appeal.
WHATCHU KNO ABOUT ME – GloRilla
GloRilla’s commanding presence on TikTok continues with this assertive track that has become the soundtrack for confidence-boosting content and fierce dance challenges. The song’s hard-hitting production and memorable catchphrases have created countless viral moments, with users embracing its energy to showcase their own power and personality. GloRilla’s authentic approach to social media engagement has endeared her to TikTok’s community, creating a loyal fanbase that eagerly participates in trends associated with her music. The track’s success represents hip-hop’s continued evolution on TikTok, where authenticity and attitude combine to create viral moments.
MILLION DOLLAR BABY – Tommy Richman
Tommy Richman’s viral sensation represents the perfect TikTok success story, with the track’s unique sound and memorable hooks creating an instant cultural phenomenon. The song’s blend of genres and unconventional structure has inspired creative content that pushes boundaries and challenges traditional format expectations. Richman’s grassroots rise through the platform showcases how independent artists can achieve mainstream success without traditional label support. The track’s various sections have spawned different trends, demonstrating how TikTok users can find multiple viral moments within a single song.
BAND4BAND – Central Cee x Lil Baby
This transatlantic collaboration has brought together UK and US rap scenes, creating a global moment that showcases TikTok’s role in breaking down geographical barriers in hip-hop. The track’s confident lyrics and infectious beat have inspired countless freestyle videos and dance challenges that celebrate success and ambition. The collaboration represents the new era of international hip-hop cooperation, where artists can connect with global audiences instantly through social media platforms. The song’s success has opened doors for more international collaborations, contributing to hip-hop’s increasingly global character.
Love You Like a Love Song – Selena Gomez
The revival of this classic Selena Gomez track demonstrates TikTok’s power to give new life to catalog music, introducing younger generations to songs they might have missed. The track’s timeless melody and romantic lyrics have inspired nostalgic content and new interpretations that bridge generational gaps. Gomez’s continued relevance on TikTok, both through her music and her beauty brand, showcases how artists can maintain multi-faceted presence on the platform. The song’s resurgence proves that quality music transcends time periods and that TikTok can serve as a discovery platform for music from any era.
Water – Tyla
Tyla’s breakthrough international hit has brought South African music to global attention, showcasing TikTok’s role in amplifying diverse voices and sounds. The track’s infectious Afrobeats-influenced production and memorable dance challenge have created a truly global phenomenon that celebrates African music and culture. Tyla’s strategic use of TikTok to promote the song, including tutorial videos and behind-the-scenes content, has created a blueprint for international artists looking to break into global markets. The song’s success has opened doors for more African artists on the platform, contributing to the diversification of TikTok’s musical landscape.
Tell Ur Girlfriend – Lay Bankz
Lay Bankz’s confident anthem has become the soundtrack for bold content and friendship celebrations, with its catchy hook and attitude-filled delivery resonating with young audiences. The track’s production perfectly captures the contemporary sound that dominates TikTok, while its message of self-assurance has inspired empowering content across the platform. Bankz’s rise through TikTok represents the new generation of artists who understand intuitively how to create music that works within the platform’s ecosystem. The song’s various quotable moments have spawned multiple trends, showcasing how clever lyricism can create multiple viral opportunities within a single track.
we can’t be friends – Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande’s emotional ballad has inspired countless storytelling videos and dramatic interpretations that showcase TikTok’s capacity for narrative content. The track’s vulnerable lyrics and Grande’s powerful vocals have created moments perfect for emotional reveals and relationship content. Grande’s continued dominance on TikTok, despite being an established superstar, demonstrates how major artists can maintain relevance by creating authentic, emotionally resonant music. The song’s success has inspired covers and reinterpretations from musicians across the platform, creating a community of creators united by the track’s emotional impact.
Fortnight – Taylor Swift feat. Post Malone
This unexpected collaboration has created waves across TikTok, with the blend of Swift’s storytelling and Post Malone’s unique style creating something entirely new. The track’s moody production and introspective lyrics have inspired artistic content that goes beyond typical music video recreation. The collaboration represents the power of unexpected musical partnerships to create viral moments and expand both artists’ audiences. Users have embraced the song’s cinematic quality, creating mini-movies and narrative videos that showcase TikTok’s evolution as a platform for creative expression.
Paint The Town Red – Doja Cat
Doja Cat’s continued reign on TikTok with this bold track showcases her understanding of what makes content viral while maintaining artistic integrity. The song’s sample-based production and confident delivery have inspired countless dance challenges and creative interpretations that celebrate individuality. Doja Cat’s native understanding of internet culture has made her one of TikTok’s most successful artists, consistently creating moments that resonate with the platform’s users. The track’s various elements, from specific lyrics to dance moves, have created multiple trend opportunities, demonstrating the value of creating multi-faceted content.
Agora Hills – Doja Cat
Another success from Doja Cat’s repertoire shows her versatility and continued relevance on the platform. The track’s dreamy production and romantic themes have inspired aesthetic content and couple videos that showcase softer sides of TikTok culture. The song’s success demonstrates Doja Cat’s ability to create diverse content that appeals to different segments of TikTok’s user base. The track’s visual elements and fashion moments have inspired beauty and style content, proving that music on TikTok extends beyond audio to encompass entire aesthetic movements.
KEHLANI – Jordan Adetunji
Jordan Adetunji’s viral hit represents the democratization of music discovery on TikTok, where independent artists can achieve global success through authentic connection with audiences. The track’s catchy hook and relatable lyrics have created a movement of content celebrating everyday moments and personal victories. Adetunji’s journey from unknown artist to TikTok sensation showcases the platform’s power to change lives and launch careers overnight. The song’s organic growth through user-generated content rather than paid promotion demonstrates the authenticity that TikTok users value.
Flowers – Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus’s empowerment anthem continues to resonate on TikTok, with its message of self-love and independence inspiring countless personal growth and transformation videos. The track’s disco-influenced production and memorable chorus have created perfect moments for celebration content and dance challenges. Cyrus’s evolution as an artist has been documented through TikTok, with users celebrating her journey and creating content that reflects their own personal growth. The song’s enduring popularity on the platform demonstrates how tracks with universal messages can maintain relevance long after their initial release.
Cruel Summer – Taylor Swift
The continued success of this Taylor Swift track on TikTok showcases the platform’s ability to give songs extended life cycles beyond traditional chart runs. The track’s bridge has become one of TikTok’s most iconic moments, inspiring countless videos that capture peak emotional experiences. Swift’s strategic release of content related to the song, including live performances and behind-the-scenes footage, has kept it relevant years after its initial release. The song’s versatility has allowed it to soundtrack everything from summer compilations to emotional revelations, proving its timeless appeal.
Stargazing – Myles Smith
Myles Smith’s atmospheric track has become the soundtrack for contemplative and aesthetic content, with its dreamy production inspiring creative visual interpretations. The song’s rise through TikTok showcases the platform’s ability to elevate indie artists who create emotionally resonant music. Smith’s authentic engagement with fans on the platform has created a devoted following that eagerly participates in trends associated with his music. The track’s success represents the growing appetite for alternative and indie music on TikTok, expanding beyond mainstream pop to embrace diverse sounds.
Good 4 U – Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo’s pop-punk anthem continues to resonate with TikTok users, with its angsty energy perfect for dramatic content and emotional releases. The track’s explosive chorus and relatable lyrics have created countless viral moments, from break-up videos to empowerment content. Rodrigo’s understanding of her generation’s experiences has made her music particularly resonant on TikTok, where authenticity and emotional honesty are valued. The song’s various sections have spawned different trends, showcasing how multi-dimensional tracks can create multiple viral opportunities.
Alibi – Sevdaliza, Pabllo Vittar & Yseult
This international collaboration represents TikTok’s role in bringing together diverse artists and sounds from around the world. The track’s hypnotic production and multilingual vocals have inspired creative content that celebrates global culture and artistic expression. The collaboration showcases how TikTok can facilitate artistic partnerships that might not happen through traditional industry channels. The song’s unique sound has inspired experimental content and artistic interpretations that push the boundaries of typical TikTok videos.
Belong Together – Mark Ambor
Mark Ambor’s romantic track has become essential for couple content and relationship celebrations on the platform. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and warm production have created perfect moments for love declarations and anniversary videos. Ambor’s rise through TikTok represents the platform’s ability to launch singer-songwriters who create authentic, emotional music. The track’s success has inspired countless covers and duets, creating a community of musicians and music lovers united by the song’s message.
Redbone – Childish Gambino
The resurgence of this Childish Gambino classic demonstrates TikTok’s power to introduce timeless music to new generations. The track’s unique production and soulful vocals have inspired diverse content, from dance videos to artistic interpretations. The song’s revival on TikTok has introduced Childish Gambino’s music to younger audiences who might not have discovered it otherwise. The track’s versatility has allowed it to soundtrack various moods and moments, proving that quality music transcends time periods.
Cinderella – Manuel Wisser
Manuel Wisser’s viral track showcases how European artists can achieve global success through TikTok’s international reach. The song’s catchy melody and romantic themes have inspired fairy tale-inspired content and transformation videos. Wisser’s success represents the globalization of pop music through social media, where language barriers become less significant. The track’s visual potential has inspired creative content that goes beyond simple dance challenges to create narrative experiences.
Close Friends – Central Cee
Central Cee’s continued success on TikTok with this track showcases UK rap’s growing influence on the platform. The song’s introspective lyrics and melodic production have inspired relationship content and personal storytelling videos. Central Cee’s authentic approach to social media has created a strong connection with TikTok users who appreciate genuine artistic expression. The track’s quotable lyrics have spawned numerous trends, demonstrating how clever wordplay can create viral moments.
I’m Good (Blue) – David Guetta & Bebe Rexha
This collaboration between David Guetta and Bebe Rexha represents electronic music’s continued presence on TikTok. The track’s nostalgic sample and contemporary production have created a bridge between different musical eras and audiences. The song’s energy has inspired party content and dance challenges that celebrate joy and freedom. The collaboration showcases how established artists can stay relevant by understanding and embracing platform-specific trends.
What It Is (Block Boy) – Doechii
Doechii’s confident track has become essential for attitude-filled content and dance challenges that celebrate individuality. The song’s unique production and memorable delivery have created instantly recognizable moments perfect for TikTok’s format. Doechii’s rise represents the new generation of hip-hop artists who understand how to create music that works within social media ecosystems. The track’s various sections have spawned different trends, showcasing the value of creating dynamic, multi-faceted music.
Dancing In The Flames – The Weeknd
The Weeknd’s latest contribution to TikTok’s soundscape showcases his continued evolution as an artist while maintaining the dark, atmospheric sound his fans love. The track’s cinematic production has inspired dramatic content and artistic interpretations that push creative boundaries. The Weeknd’s consistent presence on TikTok, from his music to his HBO series, has created multiple touchpoints for fan engagement. The song’s visual potential has inspired elaborate productions and creative content that showcases TikTok’s evolution as a platform for artistic expression.
Soak City (Do It) – 310babii
310babii’s regional hit turned global phenomenon showcases TikTok’s ability to break regional artists into mainstream consciousness. The track’s West Coast influence and catchy hook have inspired dance challenges that celebrate regional hip-hop cultures. The song’s success represents the democratization of hip-hop through social media, where local sounds can achieve global reach. The track’s organic growth through community participation rather than industry push demonstrates the authentic connections that drive TikTok success.
La Diabla – Xavi
Xavi’s Spanish-language hit continues the dominance of Latin music on TikTok, with its romantic themes and melodic production inspiring emotional content. The track’s success showcases how regional Mexican music has found a global audience through social media platforms. Xavi’s rise represents the new generation of Latin artists who are redefining traditional genres for contemporary audiences. The song’s emotional depth has inspired storytelling content that transcends language barriers through universal human experiences.
Unwritten – Natasha Bedingfield
The revival of Natasha Bedingfield’s inspirational anthem demonstrates TikTok’s unique ability to breathe new life into beloved classics from previous decades. This feel-good track has become the perfect soundtrack for life milestone videos, graduation celebrations, and new beginning content that resonates across generations. The song’s timeless message about writing your own story has found renewed relevance with TikTok’s creative community, inspiring users to document their journeys and celebrate personal growth. Bedingfield’s grateful engagement with the TikTok community has created a beautiful full-circle moment, showing how artists can connect with new audiences decades after a song’s initial release.
Star Wars – The Imperial March Theme – Geek Music
The inclusion of “The Imperial March Theme” (Darth Vader’s Theme) in a list of top TikTok songs highlights the platform’s unique power to turn classic, non-traditional audio into viral content. The version used, often produced by accounts like Geek Music, capitalizes on the deep-seated cultural recognition of the Star Wars franchise. On TikTok, the dramatic, foreboding brass and relentless rhythm of this classic John Williams composition is rarely used for genuine villainy. Instead, it is employed for comedic or relatable effect:
Comedic Irony: The theme is almost exclusively used with ironic self-deprecating humor to soundtrack the moment a creator is caught doing something bad, is about to face an inevitable consequence (e.g., a teacher walking toward a student who is not working), or when a mundane object or pet is acting aggressively or menacingly.
The Big Reveal: It is a go-to sound for a dramatic reveal of a pet’s funny face, a sibling’s ridiculous outfit, or a friend’s questionable life decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a song go viral on TikTok in 2025?
Viral TikTok songs typically combine several key elements that resonate with the platform’s diverse user base. These tracks often feature memorable hooks that can be easily lip-synced or danced to within TikTok’s short-form video format. The most successful songs have specific moments—whether it’s a beat drop, a catchy phrase, or an emotional peak—that creators can build content around. Additionally, songs that inspire creativity and allow for personal interpretation tend to perform better than those with limited creative potential. Artist engagement also plays a crucial role, with musicians who actively participate in their own trends and interact with fans seeing greater success on the platform.
How do TikTok songs influence mainstream music charts?
The relationship between TikTok virality and mainstream chart success has become increasingly intertwined in recent years. Songs that gain traction on TikTok often see immediate spikes in streaming numbers across platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, which directly impacts their position on charts like the Billboard Hot 100. Record labels now monitor TikTok trends closely, often signing artists based on viral success and investing in promoting songs that show early momentum on the platform. The platform has essentially become an organic focus group, allowing the music industry to identify potential hits before investing in traditional promotion. This has led to a more democratic music discovery process where independent artists can compete with major label releases on a relatively level playing field.
Which music genres perform best on TikTok?
While pop music dominates TikTok due to its broad appeal and catchy nature, the platform has proven remarkably diverse in its musical tastes. Hip-hop and rap perform exceptionally well, particularly tracks with quotable lyrics or distinctive beats that inspire dance challenges. Latin music has seen tremendous growth, with reggaeton and regional Mexican music finding global audiences through the platform. Alternative and indie music have carved out significant niches, particularly songs with emotional depth that inspire storytelling content. Even country music has found success through crossover hits that blend genres. The key factor isn’t necessarily the genre itself but rather how well a song translates to TikTok’s visual medium and whether it provides creative opportunities for users.
How can artists promote their music on TikTok effectively?
Successful music promotion on TikTok requires a blend of authenticity, creativity, and strategic timing that goes beyond simply uploading music. Artists should focus on creating multiple types of content around their songs, including behind-the-scenes footage, acoustic versions, and participating in their own challenges. Consistency is crucial—regular posting keeps artists visible in the algorithm and maintains audience engagement. Collaborating with TikTok creators and influencers can amplify reach, but these partnerships work best when they feel organic rather than forced. Artists should also pay attention to TikTok-specific features like sounds, effects, and trends, incorporating them naturally into their content. Most importantly, genuine engagement with fans through comments, duets, and live streams creates the authentic connections that drive long-term success on the platform.
What role do dance challenges play in making songs viral?
Dance challenges remain one of the most powerful drivers of viral music on TikTok, creating participatory experiences that transform passive listeners into active content creators. The most successful dance challenges strike a balance between being memorable and achievable—complex enough to be interesting but simple enough for average users to master. These challenges work because they create a sense of community and shared experience, with users putting their own spin on established choreography. The visual nature of dance content makes it highly shareable and engaging, increasing the likelihood of videos appearing on the For You Page. Additionally, dance challenges provide multiple opportunities for virality, as professional dancers, celebrities, and everyday users all contribute their versions, keeping songs relevant for extended periods.
How long do TikTok music trends typically last?
The lifecycle of TikTok music trends varies significantly depending on multiple factors, but most follow a predictable pattern of growth, peak, and decline. Typical viral songs experience rapid growth over 2-4 weeks, reach their peak virality for 1-2 weeks, then gradually decline over another 2-4 weeks, though some exceptional tracks maintain relevance for months. Factors that extend a trend’s lifespan include artist engagement, celebrity participation, and the song’s versatility for different types of content. Seasonal songs may see recurring popularity, while songs tied to specific challenges often have shorter but more intense viral periods. The platform’s algorithm tends to favor fresh content, so maintaining momentum requires continuous creative evolution and new ways for users to engage with the music.
Can older songs become viral on TikTok?
The revival of older songs has become one of TikTok’s most fascinating phenomena, proving that great music transcends time periods and generational boundaries. Classic tracks from the 1960s through the early 2010s regularly find new life on the platform when creative users discover fresh ways to interpret them. These revivals often occur organically when a creator uses an older song in an unexpected context that resonates with contemporary audiences. The success of catalog music on TikTok has led record labels to actively promote their back catalogs on the platform, recognizing the revenue potential in introducing classic songs to new generations. This trend has also created intergenerational moments where parents and children can connect over shared musical experiences, expanding TikTok’s appeal across age groups.