[Western Music Edition] Songs Frequently Used in YouTube Shorts [2026]

i like the way you kiss meArtemas

Artemas – i like the way you kiss me (official music video)

Artemas is a UK-born singer-songwriter who taught himself music production.

His track released in March 2024 has gained worldwide popularity, especially on social media.

Evoking the darkwave of the ’80s, its moody, pulsing synths create an irresistibly addictive feel.

The appeal of this song may lie in its lyrics, which, contrary to the languid tone, candidly depict a clear-cut desire for physical connection within an unstable relationship.

On YouTube Shorts, its cool vibe is frequently used in dance videos and fashion content.

If you like dark pop, be sure to check it out.

Sky HighElektronomia

Elektronomia – Sky High | Progressive House | NCS – Copyright Free Music

A track by Finnish music producer Elektronomia is frequently used in YouTube Shorts.

Released in December 2016, the song is characterized by an energetic, euphoric mood.

Its sound fully showcases the appeal of commercial house, captivating listeners and surpassing 200 million views on YouTube.

Loved as an anthem that brings hope and joy, it gives many people the courage to pursue their dreams and goals.

Popular not only among dance music fans but also as BGM for short videos, it’s a work that creators and listeners can enjoy together.

Not Like UsKendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar – Not Like Us

When it comes to the hip-hop tune that defined 2024 and became a massive hit, it has to be Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” The track is packed with scathing disses aimed at his rival Drake, riffing on his album titles to attack his character and delivering a barrage of sharp punchlines.

Mustard’s distinctly West Coast, bouncy beat lodges in your head after a single listen, which explains why it’s so widely used in short-form videos.

It’s still popular in 2025, so definitely consider using it cleverly when you make short videos.

Paint The Town RedDoja Cat

Doja Cat – Paint The Town Red (Official Video)

Doja Cat is a female rapper who has won strong support from many heads with her original rhymes that put femininity front and center.

Her 2023 release “Paint The Town Red” became a megahit that symbolized the female rap scene that year.

Its popularity on TikTok and YouTube Shorts has been tremendous, frequently used in vlog-style, sensation-focused, and skit-style videos.

The chill track is outstanding, and it’s often used as driving music or as background music for getting work done.

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Shake It To The Max (Fly) (Remix)MOLIY, Shenseea, Skillibeng, Silent Addy

MOLIY, Shenseea, Skillibeng, Silent Addy – Shake It To The Max (Fly) (Remix) (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

Molly is a singer-songwriter with roots in Ghana and the United States, known for her genre-defying sound that fuses Afrobeats and R&B.

Her collaborative track with popular Jamaican artists Shenseea and Skillibeng is an energetic blend of Afrobeats and dancehall.

The song carries a positive, liberating message—“let’s move our bodies and have the best time”—instantly transporting listeners to the dance floor.

Upon its release in February 2025, it reached No.

12 on the Billboard Global 200 and was featured in fitness playlists.

On YouTube Shorts, it’s been used mainly for dance challenges and feel-good vlogs.

Be sure to check it out.