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Nostalgic even though it’s recent? Iconic 2010s songs that went viral on TikTok

Nostalgic even though it’s recent? Iconic 2010s songs that went viral on TikTok
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From the 2010s, when TikTok was born, up to the present, that era is essentially the very heart of adolescence for what we call Generation Z.

In recent years, many songs have gone viral from TikTok, and with the rise of revival hits, there are more opportunities to discover older tracks as well.

As a result, it seems more listeners are enjoying music regardless of era.

So this time, we’re introducing songs from the 2010s—the decade when TikTok came into being.

We’ve gathered everything from tracks that became hits thanks to being used on TikTok to dance videos, so don’t miss it!

Nostalgic even though it’s recent? Iconic 2010s songs that went viral on TikTok (1–10)

PerfumeEito

Perfume / Eito (Official Music Video)
PerfumeEito

Eito’s digital-only single became a runaway hit after cover videos on social media drew widespread attention.

In May 2020, it reached No.

1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and continued to top the Oricon combined rankings, marking an astonishing chart performance.

The lyrics portray memories of a former lover and lingering feelings being stirred by the scent of perfume, carrying a poignant, sentimental message that has resonated with many listeners.

It’s also striking how the perfume is used symbolically as a key item that evokes a past romance.

This is a song I’d highly recommend to anyone who’s experienced heartbreak or loves bittersweet love songs.

loveHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Koi (Official Video)
loveHoshino Gen

A song by Gen Hoshino that was selected as the theme for the TBS drama “We Married as a Job” (Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu).

Blending elements of funk and pop, it features a distinctive sound that goes beyond the typical J-pop framework.

Its lyrics, which strongly affirm the diversity of love, are likely to resonate with many listeners.

Released in October 2016, the song’s choreography—known as the “Koi Dance”—went viral on social media and developed into a social phenomenon.

It is one of Gen Hoshino’s signature tracks and was nominated for various music awards.

Racing into the NightYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Racing into the Night” Official Music Video
Racing into the NightYOASOBI

A YOASOBI song based on the novel “The Temptation of Thanatos.” The lyrics, which portray the feelings of two people standing on the boundary between life and death, are infused with deep emotional movement.

The protagonist’s attempts to hold back “you,” along with efforts to point toward a brighter future, make this a work that questions the darkness and hope within the human heart.

Released in December 2019, the song became a hit on TikTok and social media, topped Billboard JAPAN’s year-end chart in 2020, and earned Diamond certification for streaming.

It’s a must-listen for those who want to contemplate the meaning of life or seek a deeply moving experience.

Odoru-LoopFurederikku

Frederic “Oddloop” Music Video | Frederic “oddloop”
Odoru-LoopFurederikku

A track with a nostalgic melody and a catchy rhythm is making big waves on TikTok.

The title song of Frederic’s first major-label EP, “oddloop,” is a dance tune that deftly captures both the urge to dance and the frustration of nights when you can’t.

Released in September 2014, it was also used as the ending theme for the anime Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches.

Its lyrics, which sing of a longing for nights when you can dance freely, resonate with many people.

It’s an irresistibly addictive pop tune perfect for nights when you want to dance till dawn at the dance hall.

R.Y.U.S.E.I.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / “R.Y.U.S.E.I.” Music Video
R.Y.U.S.E.I.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

The dance and vocal group Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE has gained popularity for their overwhelming entertainment value, combining a transparent, crystalline singing voice with high-level dance skills.

Their 13th single, released in June 2014, became a hit that sparked a social phenomenon and was also used as the campaign song for Tokyo City Keiba.

From the grand intro that evokes the image of shooting stars to the airy, floating chorus, the ensemble perfectly reflects the title and exudes coolness.

Centered on themes of dreams, hope, and friendship, the lyrics deliver a positive message that resonates with young people.

It’s a powerful, upbeat tune you’ll want to listen to while paying attention to the emotional performance.

Fortune Cookie in LoveAKB48

[MV full] Koi Suru Fortune Cookie / AKB48 [Official]
Fortune Cookie in LoveAKB48

The AKB48 song released in August 2013 is characterized by a disco-style rhythm and a catchy melody.

Rino Sashihara served as the center, and the choreography devised by Papaya Suzuki also became a hot topic.

The music video features as many as 3,800 extras, showcasing large-scale dance scenes.

The work achieved million-seller status in Japan and gained popularity mainly across Asia.

It has been embraced by a wide audience, even being used as the departure melody at Tokyo Metro’s Hibiya Line Akihabara Station.

With lyrics that carry a bright and positive message, it’s a piece that likely resonates with many people.

I got a girlfriend.SHISHAMO

A signature song by SHISHAMO that vividly captures the thrill of first love and the struggle of keeping a secret with fresh, lyrical imagery.

A breezy number marked by its memorable guitar riff, it was included on the album “SHISHAMO,” released in November 2013.

Its innocent lyrics resonated with listeners and sparked a revival hit on TikTok.

In November 2023, live footage from their performance at Nippon Budokan was released, drawing significant attention.

A cute pop tune recommended for anyone who wants to vividly relive the romantic feelings of their youth.