A must-see for longtime fans! Nostalgic classic songs that gained popularity on TikTok

CradlesSub Urban

Sub Urban – Cradles [Official Music Video]

When it comes to artists who became global stars thanks to TikTok, many people probably think of Sub Urban first.

He wasn’t just an artist who blew up on TikTok—he played a major role in popularizing the later gothic aesthetic.

There’s a hit Netflix series called Wednesday, and its vibe really aligns with the world of Sub Urban’s music.

Even from that perspective, you could say he was a visionary artist ahead of his time.

One of his iconic tracks is Cradles.

It’s a supremely tasteful song: gothic and dark in atmosphere, yet with an incredibly stylish drop.

InfinityJaymes Young

Jaymes Young – Infinity [Official Audio]

James Young’s “Infinity” went viral as the BGM for TikTok challenge series and dominated charts worldwide.

Released as a single in 2017, it has been streamed over 700 million times and, as of 2022, has racked up more than 150 million views on YouTube, becoming a viral hit.

The album “Feel Something” also includes a piano version of “Infinity,” so be sure to compare the two!

CircusBritney Spears

Britney Spears – Circus (Official HD Video)

Britney Spears’s acclaimed 2008 hit “Circus” is a dance number with a comfortable, driving drumbeat.

The energetic sound and Britney’s performance are fantastic, but I’d also like you to pay attention to the lyrics.

In fact, the song explores the theme that people can be divided into two types.

The lyrics are surprisingly deep, and knowing this might help you sense the meaning embedded in the choreography as well.

abcdefuGAYLE

GAYLE – abcdefu (Official Music Video)

Singer-songwriter GAYLE, who commands overwhelming support from young people as a “Gen Z songstress.” She’s known for a style that translates punk music into pop, pairing it with straightforward lyrics that resonate strongly with youth.

Speaking of her signature hits, there’s “abcdefu.” Packed with biting disses aimed at an ex, the track gained massive popularity on TikTok in 2021.

Be sure to check it out.

Beggin’Måneskin

Måneskin – Beggin’ (Official Video)

Måneskin is a rock band from Italy.

They gained popularity on the Italian version of the hit audition show X Factor, drew attention across Europe, then dropped a track that exploded on TikTok.

That song is Beggin’.

It’s a standout track that blends stoner rock and rap rock in a distinctive way, earning high praise from critics worldwide.

While TikTok can often make popularity come first, it’s rare to find songs where genuine skill and craftsmanship match the hype—so be sure to check this one out.

DiorPop Smoke

POP SMOKE – DIOR (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

The track “DIOR,” also known for trending on TikTok, is a hip-hop song by rapper Pop Smoke.

The lyrics name-drop famous brands and celebrate the success of being able to wear them.

While the words are flashy, the song has also been embraced as an anthem for anti-racism activism.

Knowing that might let you hear the track from a different perspective.

Of course, it’s also perfectly fine to simply enjoy the beat and the flow.

Dance MonkeyTones and I

TONES AND I – DANCE MONKEY (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

With its unforgettable vocals and catchy melody that got the whole world dancing, the viral hit “Dance Monkey” is by the Australian artist Tones and I.

Released in 2019, the single dominated charts in over 20 countries and spent 11 consecutive weeks at number one on the UK charts.

The humorous music video, featuring Tones and I disguised as an elderly person dancing, is particularly memorable.

In Japan, the song is well-known among younger generations, especially on TikTok.