Old Songs That Went Viral on TikTok

TikTok, the social media platform known for its short-form videos, has become a cultural phenomenon, turning obscure tracks into global hits overnight. Over the years, several old songs have found a new lease on life thanks to the creativity and virality of TikTok users. In this article, we will explore how and why old songs go viral on TikTok, providing examples of notable tracks that have experienced a resurgence. We will also delve into the mechanisms behind these trends, examining the factors that contribute to an old song’s viral success and the impact this can have on both the song and the artist.

The Power of TikTok
TikTok has fundamentally changed the music industry, providing a platform for songs—regardless of their age or genre—to gain unexpected popularity. The app’s algorithm and user base allow for rapid dissemination and engagement, often leading to a song’s resurgence or a completely new association with contemporary trends.

How Old Songs Go Viral
Old songs often go viral on TikTok through various means:

1. Dance Challenges: Users create and participate in dance routines set to specific songs. When these routines become popular, the song gains exposure.
2. Memes and Trends: Users incorporate old songs into memes or trending challenges, giving the tracks a new context and relevance.
3. Nostalgia: Users often gravitate towards familiar tunes that evoke a sense of nostalgia, which can drive engagement and shares.

Examples of Viral Old Songs

1. “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac

   • Original Release: 1977
   • TikTok Resurgence: 2020
   • Context: In late 2020, TikTok user Nathan Apodaca, known as @420doggface208, posted a video of himself skateboarding while sipping cranberry juice to “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac. The video quickly went viral, leading to a massive resurgence in streams for the song. The trend highlighted how a simple, relatable video could breathe new life into a classic track.

2. “Rasputin” by Boney M

   • Original Release: 1978
   • TikTok Resurgence: 2020
   • Context: “Rasputin” experienced a resurgence as users on TikTok began incorporating it into dance challenges and comedic skits. The song's infectious beat and catchy chorus made it a favorite for creative and energetic videos.

3. “Peaches” by The Presidents of the United States of America

   • Original Release: 1995
   • TikTok Resurgence: 2021
   • Context: This 90s hit found new life on TikTok with users creating humorous and nostalgic content around the song. The track’s playful lyrics and upbeat tempo made it a perfect fit for various TikTok trends.

Mechanisms Behind the Viral Success
Several factors contribute to an old song going viral on TikTok:

1. Algorithmic Boost: TikTok’s algorithm favors engaging content, so videos featuring catchy or nostalgic songs are often promoted to a wider audience.
2. Creative User Engagement: The platform’s emphasis on user creativity allows for unique and varied uses of old songs, leading to more widespread exposure.
3. Social Proof: When a song gains initial traction, other users are more likely to engage with it, creating a snowball effect.

Impact on the Song and Artist
The viral success of old songs on TikTok can have significant effects:

1. Increased Streaming and Sales: Old tracks that go viral often see a substantial increase in streaming numbers and sales, providing a financial boost to the artists or their estates.
2. Renewed Interest: Artists may experience a revival of interest in their work, leading to new opportunities for interviews, performances, and collaborations.
3. Cultural Legacy: A viral resurgence can solidify a song’s place in popular culture, introducing it to new audiences and ensuring its longevity.

Challenges and Criticisms
While the viral success of old songs on TikTok can be positive, it also presents challenges:

1. Authenticity: Some critics argue that the commercialized nature of viral trends can detract from the original artistic intent of the song.
2. Overexposure: Excessive use of a song in viral content may lead to overexposure, which can diminish the song’s impact or lead to viewer fatigue.

Conclusion
TikTok has become a powerful tool for reviving old songs, showcasing the platform’s ability to transform obscure tracks into modern-day hits. By examining the mechanisms behind these trends and their impact on both the songs and the artists, we gain insight into how social media continues to shape the music industry. As TikTok evolves, it will be fascinating to see how it continues to influence the resurgence of past hits and the creation of new viral phenomena.