Old Songs from the 80s That Went Viral on TikTok

The 1980s were a golden era for music, producing countless hits that have stood the test of time. The decade's vibrant, energetic tunes continue to resonate with listeners today, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where a new generation has rediscovered these classics. Over the past few years, several 80s songs have gone viral on TikTok, bringing a wave of nostalgia to older users while introducing younger audiences to the magic of 80s music.

"Take On Me" by A-ha
One of the most iconic songs from the 1980s, "Take On Me" by A-ha, has seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to TikTok. The song, originally released in 1984, is known for its catchy synth-pop melody and memorable music video, which combined live-action with pencil-sketch animation. On TikTok, users have used the song's upbeat tempo and distinctive synth riff for a variety of creative content, from dance challenges to nostalgic montages. The hashtag #TakeOnMe has garnered millions of views, proving that this 80s hit still has the power to captivate audiences.

"Dreams" by Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams" is another 80s classic that found new life on TikTok. Originally released in 1977, the song became a viral sensation in 2020 when a TikTok user posted a video of himself skateboarding while drinking cranberry juice and lip-syncing to the song. The video quickly went viral, leading to a surge in streams and sales of "Dreams." The hashtag #DreamsChallenge encouraged users to create their own versions of the video, further cementing the song's status as a TikTok phenomenon.

"Africa" by Toto
Toto's "Africa," released in 1982, is another 80s track that has become a TikTok favorite. The song's infectious rhythm and memorable chorus have made it a popular choice for lip-syncs, memes, and various creative TikTok content. The song's resurgence in popularity has also led to a renewed interest in Toto's discography, with many users discovering the band's other hits for the first time. The hashtag #AfricaToto has been used millions of times, with users showcasing their love for this timeless 80s anthem.

"Don't You (Forget About Me)" by Simple Minds
This 1985 hit, famously associated with the film "The Breakfast Club," has also found a new audience on TikTok. The song's nostalgic lyrics and powerful melody have made it a favorite for users looking to evoke feelings of nostalgia and reflection. The hashtag #DontYouForgetAboutMe has inspired a variety of TikTok videos, from tributes to the movie to personal stories set to the song's unforgettable chorus. The enduring popularity of "Don't You (Forget About Me)" on TikTok is a testament to the song's lasting impact on pop culture.

"Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears for Fears
Another 80s anthem that has gone viral on TikTok is Tears for Fears' "Everybody Wants to Rule the World." Released in 1985, the song's universal themes of power and ambition have resonated with TikTok users, who have used it to soundtrack videos ranging from motivational content to comedic skits. The song's catchy chorus and driving rhythm have made it a popular choice for TikTok challenges, with the hashtag #EverybodyWantsToRuleTheWorld accumulating millions of views.

"Girls Just Want to Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper's 1983 hit "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" is another 80s song that has found new life on TikTok. The song's infectious energy and message of empowerment have made it a popular choice for TikTok creators looking to celebrate fun and freedom. The hashtag #GirlsJustWantToHaveFun has been used in countless videos, from dance challenges to comedic skits, proving that the spirit of the 80s is still alive and well on TikTok.

Why 80s Songs Are Going Viral on TikTok
The resurgence of 80s music on TikTok can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the platform's algorithm tends to promote songs that evoke strong emotions, whether it's nostalgia, joy, or excitement. 80s music, with its distinctive sound and cultural significance, naturally lends itself to this kind of emotional connection. Secondly, the visual and performative nature of TikTok makes it an ideal platform for songs with memorable music videos or iconic melodies, both of which are hallmarks of 80s music.

Moreover, the generational divide on TikTok has played a role in the revival of 80s hits. Older users who grew up with these songs are using the platform to share their love for the music, while younger users are discovering these tracks for the first time and bringing their own creative spin to them. This cross-generational exchange has helped to keep 80s music relevant and has introduced it to a whole new audience.

The Impact of TikTok on Music Trends
TikTok has become a powerful force in the music industry, capable of reviving old songs and catapulting them back into the charts. The platform's ability to turn virtually any song into a viral sensation has had a significant impact on music trends, with record labels and artists now paying close attention to what goes viral on TikTok. The success of 80s songs on the platform has even led to a resurgence of interest in the decade's music, with streaming numbers for 80s hits increasing significantly.

In conclusion, the 1980s produced some of the most iconic and enduring music in pop culture history. Thanks to TikTok, many of these songs have found a new lease on life, going viral and reaching audiences that may not have been familiar with them before. Whether through dance challenges, memes, or nostalgic tributes, these 80s classics continue to resonate with listeners, proving that great music truly stands the test of time.