The Evolution of TikTok Sound Trends in 2021: A Deep Dive into Viral Auditory Culture

2021 was a landmark year for TikTok, where sound trends not only dominated the platform but also shaped global music charts, cultural dialogues, and even influenced the way brands approached advertising. In this article, we’ll explore the most significant sound trends of 2021, breaking down how they originated, spread, and became the backdrop of countless viral videos.

The Power of Audio on TikTok

Sound has always been a crucial element of TikTok, serving as the backbone of the platform's identity. The app's unique algorithm tends to favor catchy, repeatable sounds that users can easily apply to their videos. In 2021, this dynamic led to a plethora of trends that were driven by music, sound bites from movies, memes, or original audio created by users. But why did 2021 stand out?

The Year of Collaborative Sound Trends

Unlike previous years, 2021 saw a surge in collaborative sound trends. TikTok users were no longer just passive consumers of audio; they were active participants in creating and remixing sounds. Examples include the rise of “duet chains” where users would add layers to an existing sound, creating a rich tapestry of collaborative audio. This led to more engaging and participatory content, which is a key reason why certain sounds went viral.

Memes and Sound Bites: The Ubiquity of Virality

Memes have always been a core part of internet culture, but 2021 was the year when sound memes truly took over TikTok. Sound bites from popular shows like “Squid Game” and movies like “The Conjuring” became the soundtrack of the internet, with users finding creative ways to incorporate these into their videos. The versatility of these sounds allowed them to be reused in countless different contexts, ensuring their longevity on the platform.

The Role of Music Industry in TikTok’s Sound Trends

2021 was also the year where the music industry fully embraced TikTok as a promotional tool. Artists began to strategically release songs with TikTok in mind, often crafting hooks and choruses that were tailor-made for the platform. The success of Olivia Rodrigo’s “drivers license” is a prime example. The song's emotional resonance made it a perfect backdrop for a variety of TikTok videos, from breakup stories to creative lip-syncs, catapulting it to the top of the charts.

The Impact of Global Events on Sound Trends

Global events played a significant role in shaping TikTok sound trends in 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, inspired a range of sounds related to quarantine life, remote work, and social distancing. “Bored in the House,” a simple, catchy phrase repeated over a beat, became a viral anthem for those stuck at home during lockdowns. Similarly, social justice movements like Black Lives Matter found expression on TikTok through powerful sound trends that voiced solidarity and activism.

Brand Involvement in TikTok Sound Trends

Brands weren’t just passive observers of TikTok trends; they actively engaged with them. In 2021, more brands began to create their own sounds or partner with influencers to start trends. This was a strategic move, as sound trends are more likely to stick in users' minds and go viral, compared to traditional advertising methods. An example is the partnership between Ocean Spray and Nathan Apodaca, whose video featuring Fleetwood Mac's “Dreams” revitalized the classic song and gave the brand immense visibility.

The Algorithm: TikTok’s Secret Sauce

At the heart of every sound trend is TikTok’s algorithm, which is remarkably efficient at identifying and promoting content that has the potential to go viral. In 2021, the algorithm became even more sophisticated, quickly recognizing which sounds were gaining traction and pushing them to a broader audience. This created a self-reinforcing loop where the most popular sounds were continuously amplified, driving more users to engage with them.

The Future of TikTok Sound Trends: What’s Next?

As we move beyond 2021, the landscape of TikTok sound trends is likely to evolve. Artificial Intelligence (AI) might play a more significant role in creating personalized sound trends for users, making the experience even more tailored. Additionally, cross-platform integration could see TikTok sounds being used in more diverse contexts, such as live streaming or virtual reality environments.

Key Takeaways

2021 was a transformative year for TikTok sound trends, characterized by increased user collaboration, deeper integration with the music industry, and the impactful role of global events. As brands and users continue to innovate, the future of sound on TikTok promises to be even more dynamic and immersive.