[Western Music Edition] Songs Frequently Used on YouTube Shorts [2025]

UnstoppableSia

Sia – Unstoppable (Official Video – Live from the Nostalgic For The Present Tour)

Sia, the Australian singer-songwriter who is active on the global stage.

Among her works, do you know the song that gained worldwide popularity thanks to short videos? Its grand, powerful chorus is truly unforgettable.

The track is an anthem of self-affirmation, boldly proclaiming inner confidence: I’m unstoppable.

Listening to it can fill you with the courage to face any challenge.

Originally released in January 2016 on the album This Is Acting, the song saw a resurgence in popularity after being featured in a Lancôme commercial starring Zendaya and in a Samsung ad.

The striking impact of the chorus made it a perfect match for short videos, capturing the hearts of many.

When you’re taking on something new or need a boost of confidence, this song is sure to give you a push.

SaharaHensonn

Hensonn-Sahara

Hensonn is a producer from Ukraine.

His electronic style, centered on phonk, has gained massive support on the internet.

His signature work, released in November 2021, also made headlines for receiving RIAA Gold certification.

Built on an aggressive, high-velocity sound known as Drift Phonk, the track balances a tense, adrenaline-pumping intensity with a liberating sense of release.

On YouTube Shorts, it’s frequently used for car-action clips and game highlight videos.

Be sure to check it out.

Somebody’s Watching MeRockwell

Rockwell – Somebody’s Watching Me (Official Music Video)

That unforgettable classic with the striking phrase, “Is somebody watching me?”—the one you can’t help but hum.

Known as the signature song of Rockwell, a formidable talent and son of the founder of Motown, it’s famous for the anecdote that he secured his record deal without revealing his father’s name.

Released in December 1983, it became a massive hit, reaching No.

2 on the U.

S.

charts.

The juxtaposition of paranoid lyrics—as if under constant surveillance—with a danceable, catchy synth-funk sound is brilliant.

And on the standout chorus, none other than Michael Jackson lends his vocals.

Featured on his debut album, Somebody’s Watching Me, this track is perfect for Halloween season or whenever you’re in the mood for a little thrill.

Oh No (TikTok Remix)Capone

Capone – Oh No (TikTok Remix) Lyrics | Oh no, oh no, oh no no

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?

Dancin (KRONO Remix)Aaron Smith

Aaron Smith – Dancin (KRONO Remix) – Lyrics

Many of you have probably heard that catchy track with the soothing beat that pops up frequently on YouTube Shorts.

Behind it is Chicago-born house DJ/producer Aaron Smith.

A veteran active since the 1990s, he’s known for his soulful sound.

This version is a remix of his signature tune by the French duo KRONO, which preserves the charm of the original while refining it into a more polished deep house cut.

Its simple theme—pure joy and freedom in dancing—may be exactly what grips listeners and won’t let go.

Although released in 2014, the song was rediscovered on social media, exploded in popularity, and even went platinum in the UK in 2022, proving its timeless appeal.

It’s the perfect track to lift your mood or add a stylish touch to everyday videos.

Close EyesDVRST

DVRST – Close Eyes

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.

Tomfoolery (Dante9k Remix)David Snell

Spongebob – “Tomfoolery” (Dante9k Remix)

That comical track that’s so often used in YouTube Shorts.

This piece is a remix by a modern beatmaker of a composition by the multi-talented British musician David Snell.

The original is also famous as background music in the anime SpongeBob SquarePants, so many of you might recognize it.

Its melody is cheerful with a slightly playful vibe throughout, and the strong beat added in the remix gives each note more impact.

This unique style seems to be frequently used in videos capturing funny everyday mishaps or pets’ mischievous antics.

The original track was included on the 1981 album “Childhood Fantasies,” and it continues to be enjoyed today with a fresh new appeal.