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

TikTok has now become a staple medium.

Although it doesn’t have a particularly long history, trends shift extremely rapidly, and the popular songs change at a staggering pace every day.

This time, we’ve picked out tracks that became hits on TikTok and are so iconic they could be called hall-of-fame classics.

Even if you’re not well-versed in TikTok trends, you’ll find must-hear songs that everyone has likely encountered at least once.

A must-see for longtime fans! Nostalgic classic hits that went viral on TikTok (1–10)

InfinityJaymes Young

Jaymes Young – Infinity [Official Audio]
InfinityJaymes Young

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!

CradlesSub Urban

Sub Urban – Cradles [Official Music Video]
CradlesSub Urban

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.

Beggin’Måneskin

Måneskin – Beggin’ (Official Video)
Beggin’Måneskin

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.

A must-see for long-time fans! Nostalgic hit songs that gained popularity on TikTok (11–20)

abcdefuGAYLE

GAYLE – abcdefu (Official Music Video)
abcdefuGAYLE

Singer-songwriter GAYLE, who commands overwhelming support from young people as the “Gen Z songstress.” She’s an artist popular for her style that distills punk music into pop, with straightforward lyrics that hit young listeners hard.

Speaking of GAYLE’s signature track, it has to be “abcdefu.” Packed with scathing disses aimed at an ex, the song gained massive popularity on TikTok in 2021.

Be sure to check it out.

Dance MonkeyTones and I

TONES AND I – DANCE MONKEY (OFFICIAL VIDEO)
Dance MonkeyTones and I

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.

CircusBritney Spears

Britney Spears – Circus (Official HD Video)
CircusBritney Spears

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.

Say SoDoja Cat

Doja Cat – Say So (Official Video)
Say SoDoja Cat

The dance challenge that went viral on TikTok and became a massive hit was Doja Cat’s “Say So.” Released as a single in 2019, it reached No.

5 on the U.S.

charts—a disco track with a lively, danceable groove driven by crisp guitar chops.

An original dance posted by popular TikTok influencer Haley Sharpe spread rapidly and turned into a viral sensation, and Doja Cat even adapted it in her own style and incorporated it into the music video.