Staple Western Songs on TikTok | 20 Picks Loved Across All Generations!
TikTok, the popular social media platform that’s becoming even bigger than YouTube.
I think many people in their teens and twenties use it.
When it comes to TikTok, the memorable content is those creations that combine various background music with unique visuals.
However, even if you find a BGM you like, there are times when you don’t know what the song is.
For those people, we’ve selected Western songs that became hits on TikTok.
We’ve picked a wide range—from tracks that trended in the early days to songs that are currently booming!
Classic Western songs on TikTok | 20 picks across all generations! (1–10)
World’s Smallest ViolinAJR
We all have times when we overthink and our self-esteem takes a hit.
The song “World’s Smallest Violin” gives voice to that fragile, hurting feeling.
Instead of being a typical motivational anthem that tells you to keep pushing, it’s a song that empathizes with your pain—and that’s likely why it resonates with so many people.
AJR actively posted on TikTok because they wanted this song to reach as many listeners as possible.
As a result, they’ve become popular artists with fans all over the world.
If you’re ever feeling down, give this song a listen.
abcdefuGAYLE
There are countless songs that have gone viral on TikTok, but “abcdefu” is one of the most famous among them.
It’s even been featured on music programs, making it a hot topic in Japan as well.
The song’s biggest hallmark is its lyrics that thoroughly diss an ex-boyfriend.
Thanks to its biting, no-holds-barred content, it spread by word of mouth in no time.
By the way, the lyrics are said to be based on the real experiences of the singer, GAYLE.
Also, the home-video-style music video is another reason for its popularity, so if you’re interested, be sure to check it out.
Build a B*tchBella Poarch
Bela Poarch’s hit “Build a B*tch,” which sparked buzz for its strong message and provocative content, is a song about the importance of women being true to themselves.
When the music video was posted on TikTok, the eerie yet edgy visuals—featuring a Barbie-doll motif—helped it spread rapidly by word of mouth.
Bela Poarch’s popularity, like Sub Urban’s, really took off from TikTok.
Many people may listen to it casually, but once you understand the message, it might change the way you view the video.
CradlesSub Urban
“Cradles” is a track that’s frequently used in prank videos and horror-themed clips.
The song stands out for its eerie, anxiety-inducing melody, and the lyrics are quite dark as well.
Thanks to “Cradles” going viral on TikTok, Sub Urban, the artist behind the track, quickly rose to global stardom.
He has released many other songs with a distinctive, unique vibe, so if you’re interested, be sure to check them out.
MONTEROLil Nas X
A classic song you often hear in TikTok dance videos, “MONTERO.” It’s popular to recreate the pole-dancing scene and the distinctive costumes from the music video.
The track was created by Lil Nas X, whose sweet vocals have captivated many fans.
He was nominated for three Grammy categories with this song.
By the way, the lyrics are quite sexy and mature.
If you’re looking for a danceable track, be sure to check it out.
Close EyesDVRST
When it comes to the dark sounds you often hear in short videos on social media, it’s hard not to think of the work of Deville-Rost, the Russian artist.
He’s known as a pioneer of the drift phonk genre.
Released in 2021, this track stands out with its unique world: a blend of lo-fi, vintage-tinged textures and a powerful bassline.
The lyrics paint a cool character who sticks to their own style without being swayed by others.
The piece gained even more recognition when a remix was included in the hit 2023 game Atomic Heart.
It’s a perfect track for night drives or for diving into your own zone—stylish and immersive.
Oh No (TikTok Remix)Capone
That catchy track with the “Oh no” phrase that you often hear as BGM in YouTube Shorts for fails and mishaps—its remix was crafted by the rapper Capone.
He’s well known for his work in the duo Capone-N-Noreaga, but he’s also active as a solo artist; his 2005 album Pain, Time & Glory reached No.
42 on the U.
S.
R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
This track boldly samples a classic 1960s girl-group hit, blending the original’s wistful melody with trap-style beats to create an irresistibly addictive vibe.
The original lyrics lament a lost love, but when fragments of them are used as a prelude to mishaps, they’ve become a go-to BGM that makes viewers laugh.
Since it’s beloved as the soundtrack for the moment you wait for the “punchline” in short videos, why not enjoy the contrast with the mood of the source material?