Songs That Went Viral Because of TikTok

In recent years, TikTok has become a major player in shaping music trends and turning obscure tracks into global hits. The platform’s unique algorithm and user-generated content have made it possible for almost any song to gain sudden popularity. Here, we’ll explore some of the most notable songs that went viral because of TikTok and the impact this has had on the music industry.

"Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X
One of the most iconic examples of a TikTok viral hit is "Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X. Released in 2018, the song initially gained traction through TikTok’s #YeeHaw challenge, which involved users creating dance videos set to the track. Its catchy blend of country and rap resonated with TikTok users, propelling the song to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for 19 consecutive weeks. This unprecedented success demonstrated TikTok’s power in breaking down genre barriers and propelling artists to stardom.

"Roxanne" by Arizona Zervas
Another notable example is "Roxanne" by Arizona Zervas. This track, which was originally released in 2019, gained viral attention in 2020 when TikTok users began using it for various types of content, from dance challenges to comedic skits. The song's catchy chorus and upbeat tempo made it a favorite among creators, leading to significant streaming increases and a top 10 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success highlights how TikTok can breathe new life into songs that might otherwise go unnoticed.

"Say So" by Doja Cat
Doja Cat’s "Say So" is a prime example of how TikTok can influence mainstream success. The song, which was released in 2019, gained massive popularity in 2020 thanks to a viral dance challenge created by user Haley Sharpe (@yodelinghaley). The challenge involved a dance routine that became widely imitated, driving millions of users to engage with the song. This viral phenomenon led to a resurgence in the song's popularity, eventually landing it at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Doja Cat’s success with "Say So" underscores the significant impact TikTok can have on an artist’s career.

"Blinding Lights" by The Weeknd
While "Blinding Lights" by The Weeknd was a hit before TikTok, its viral resurgence on the platform cannot be ignored. TikTok users embraced the song for its retro 80s vibe and used it in a variety of creative ways, including dance challenges and lip-sync videos. This renewed interest contributed to the song’s extended stay at the top of the charts and reinforced its place in pop culture. The song’s continued popularity on TikTok demonstrates how the platform can keep older hits relevant and fresh in the public’s mind.

"Supalonely" by BENEE ft. Gus Dapperton
"Supalonely" by BENEE featuring Gus Dapperton is another song that saw a major boost thanks to TikTok. Released in 2019, the song found new life in 2020 as users began incorporating it into their content, particularly during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The track’s relatable lyrics and upbeat tempo made it a favorite for creators looking to express their feelings during a challenging time. The viral success of "Supalonely" led to a significant increase in streams and a strong presence on various music charts.

"Stunnin'" by Curtis Waters ft. Harm Franklin
Curtis Waters’ "Stunnin'" is a notable example of a song that went viral due to TikTok’s influence. The track, which features a catchy beat and memorable lyrics, gained popularity through a variety of user-generated content on the platform. Its success on TikTok helped the song gain traction on streaming services and led to widespread recognition. The impact of TikTok on "Stunnin'" demonstrates how the platform can turn lesser-known tracks into mainstream successes.

"Dance Monkey" by Tones and I
"Dance Monkey" by Tones and I, although released in 2019, gained viral attention on TikTok well into 2020. The song’s infectious melody and distinctive vocals made it a popular choice for TikTok users, leading to a surge in streaming numbers and chart success. The song’s TikTok-driven success is a testament to the platform’s ability to keep songs in the public eye long after their initial release.

"WAP" by Cardi B ft. Megan Thee Stallion
Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s "WAP" is another example of a song that achieved viral status through TikTok. The track’s bold lyrics and high-energy beat inspired numerous dance challenges and memes on the platform. The song’s viral success helped it achieve record-breaking streaming numbers and solidified its place in pop culture.

Impact on the Music Industry
The influence of TikTok on the music industry is profound. The platform has created new opportunities for artists to reach audiences, democratized music promotion, and altered traditional paths to success. By leveraging TikTok’s algorithm and user-generated content, songs can achieve viral status quickly, often without significant marketing budgets. This shift has empowered emerging artists and reshaped how the music industry approaches song promotion and artist discovery.

Conclusion
TikTok has undeniably transformed the landscape of music promotion and consumption. Songs that have gone viral on the platform demonstrate the power of social media in shaping music trends and influencing public taste. As TikTok continues to evolve, it will likely remain a major force in the music industry, providing a platform for both new and established artists to reach audiences in innovative ways.