Songs That Went Viral on TikTok in 2019

TikTok, the short-form video platform that took the world by storm, became a cultural phenomenon in 2019. The app, known for its addictive scrolling and viral challenges, was instrumental in catapulting songs to mainstream success. In 2019, several tracks became wildly popular on TikTok, leading to chart-topping success and newfound fame for the artists behind them. This article explores some of the most iconic songs that went viral on TikTok in 2019, examining how they gained traction on the platform and their impact on the music industry.

1. "Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X

"Old Town Road" is perhaps the most famous example of a song that gained massive popularity through TikTok. Originally released independently by Lil Nas X, the song blended country and hip-hop elements, creating a unique sound that resonated with listeners. The "Yeehaw Challenge," where users donned cowboy hats and transformed into Western personas, played a significant role in the song's viral success. By April 2019, "Old Town Road" topped the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for a record-breaking 19 weeks. TikTok was crucial in propelling this song to become one of the most recognizable tracks of the year.

2. "The Git Up" by Blanco Brown

Another track that exploded on TikTok was "The Git Up" by Blanco Brown. Known for its catchy beat and danceable rhythm, the song became the soundtrack for "The Git Up Challenge," where users showcased their best dance moves to the tune. The challenge quickly spread across the platform, leading to millions of views and shares. The song's popularity on TikTok translated into commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. "The Git Up" demonstrated TikTok's ability to influence not just pop music but also country genres.

3. "Lottery (Renegade)" by K CAMP

K CAMP's "Lottery" became synonymous with the "Renegade" dance challenge, one of the most popular dance trends on TikTok in 2019. The dance, created by 14-year-old Jalaiah Harmon, involved intricate moves that quickly caught on among TikTok users. The challenge became so widespread that even celebrities and influencers joined in, further boosting the song's popularity. The success of "Lottery" on TikTok led to increased streaming numbers, chart placements, and recognition for both K CAMP and Jalaiah Harmon.

4. "Say So" by Doja Cat

Doja Cat's "Say So" became a viral sensation on TikTok thanks to its catchy chorus and a dance created by user Haley Sharpe (@yodelinghaley). The dance challenge quickly gained traction, with millions of users replicating the moves. The song's infectious disco-pop vibe, combined with its popularity on TikTok, helped it climb the charts, eventually reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2020. "Say So" is a prime example of how TikTok can breathe new life into a song and artist, pushing them into the mainstream spotlight.

5. "Suge" by DaBaby

DaBaby's "Suge" became a TikTok hit due to its hard-hitting beat and memorable lyrics. The song was frequently used in lip-sync videos and dance challenges, with users embracing its high-energy vibe. "Suge" helped solidify DaBaby's place in the rap scene, with TikTok playing a crucial role in amplifying his music to a broader audience. The track's success on the platform also contributed to DaBaby's rapid rise to fame in 2019.

6. "Truth Hurts" by Lizzo

Although originally released in 2017, Lizzo's "Truth Hurts" gained viral attention on TikTok in 2019, thanks to a resurgence sparked by the platform. Users began incorporating the song into various challenges, particularly those focused on self-empowerment and confidence. The track's bold lyrics and catchy beat resonated with TikTok's user base, leading to its inclusion in countless videos. The viral success on TikTok led to "Truth Hurts" topping the Billboard Hot 100, making Lizzo a household name.

7. "Dance Monkey" by Tones and I

Australian artist Tones and I achieved global success with her breakout hit "Dance Monkey," which gained significant traction on TikTok in 2019. The song's unique vocals and infectious rhythm made it a popular choice for dance challenges and lip-sync videos. "Dance Monkey" became one of the most streamed songs of the year, topping charts in over 30 countries. TikTok played a vital role in introducing the song to a global audience, showcasing the platform's power in shaping music trends.

8. "ROXANNE" by Arizona Zervas

"ROXANNE" by Arizona Zervas became an overnight sensation on TikTok, with users quickly adopting the song for various challenges and memes. The track's catchy hook and relatable lyrics made it a favorite among the platform's user base. The viral success on TikTok translated into commercial success, with "ROXANNE" reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. Arizona Zervas, an independent artist at the time, signed a major record deal shortly after the song's rise to fame, illustrating the opportunities TikTok can create for emerging artists.

9. "Lalala" by bbno$ & Y2K

"Lalala," a collaboration between bbno$ and Y2K, became a TikTok hit thanks to its catchy melody and humorous lyrics. The song's "Did I really just forget that melody?" line became a popular soundbite on the platform, leading to a wave of creative content from users. The viral nature of "Lalala" on TikTok helped propel it to international success, with millions of streams and chart placements worldwide.

10. "VIBEZ" by DaBaby

In addition to "Suge," DaBaby's track "VIBEZ" also gained popularity on TikTok. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy hook made it a favorite for dance challenges and energetic videos. TikTok users embraced the track, leading to widespread recognition and increased streaming numbers. "VIBEZ" further cemented DaBaby's status as one of the breakout stars of 2019, with TikTok playing a pivotal role in his rise to prominence.

Conclusion: The Power of TikTok in Shaping Music Trends

The year 2019 was a pivotal one for TikTok and its influence on the music industry. The platform's ability to turn songs into viral sensations and propel artists to stardom is undeniable. The tracks highlighted in this article are just a few examples of how TikTok shaped the music landscape, creating new opportunities for artists and redefining how songs achieve success in the digital age. As TikTok continues to grow, its impact on the music industry will likely only increase, making it a key player in the future of music promotion and discovery.