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

METAMORPHOSISINTERWORLD

INTERWORLD – METAMORPHOSIS

Interworld is an artist known for incorporating drift phonk, a genre born in Russia.

Although he isn’t very well known, his track “METAMORPHOSIS” has been played around the world through TikTok and YouTube Shorts.

Many of you may recognize it because it’s frequently used by Bayashi, one of the most famous Japanese TikTokers.

The track is relatively mellow for drift phonk, so it’s a must-listen for anyone interested in hip-hop subgenres.

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BIRDS OF A FEATHERBillie Eilish

Billie Eilish – BIRDS OF A FEATHER (Official Music Video)

Billie Eilish, a singer-songwriter renowned for her whisper-like vocals, enjoys immense popularity.

Familiar from YouTube Shorts, this track is featured on her 2024 album, “HIT ME HARD AND SOFT.” While its bright tone rides on a breezy, 80s-inspired synth-pop sound, the lyrics depict a love so single-minded it borders on maddening—wishing to stay together “even in death.” This romantic yet slightly perilous ultimate expression of love is quintessentially her.

Peaking at No.

2 on the U.S.

charts, the song is perfect as background music for videos that want to convey deep feelings for someone special.

Even everyday scenes can become unforgettable, moving moments when set to this track.

good 4 uOlivia Rodrigo

Olivia Rodrigo – good 4 u (Official Video)

A pop-punk song by American artist Olivia Rodrigo that portrays the pain and anger of heartbreak.

With energetic guitar riffs, it vividly expresses complex feelings toward an ex.

Released in May 2021 and reaching No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100, it’s included on her debut album SOUR.

Recommended for anyone who’s been through a breakup or wants to let out their emotions.

It has gained broad support, especially among younger listeners who relate to the lyrics.

Dancin ft. Luvli (Krono Remix)Aaron Smith

Aaron Smith – Dancin – Krono Remix (Official Video) ft. Luvli

Aaron Smith is an artist from the United Kingdom known for his electronic-focused sound and well-regarded track-making.

His iconic track “Dancin ft.

Luvli (Krono Remix),” released nine years ago, continues to be loved by many listeners through TikTok and YouTube Shorts.

It features upbeat electronic sounds with a touch of funk, and is frequently used not only in dance-related content but also in comedic videos.

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StrangersKenya Grace

Kenya Grace – Strangers (Official Lyric Video)

Keiya Grace is a female singer-songwriter from the UK with South African roots.

Her distinctive sound blends electronic and R&B elements, earning popularity not only in the UK but around the world.

Her hit song “Strangers” is frequently used on TikTok and YouTube Shorts.

With its smooth R&B-electronic production and memorable melody, it’s often featured in videos showing makeup before-and-after transformations.

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MakebaJAIN

Jain – Makeba (Official Video)

The song “Makeba” has regained worldwide attention thanks to its hit on TikTok.

Created by French singer-songwriter Jain, the track features stark rhythms and melodies built from acoustic tones.

It’s used frequently not only on TikTok but also on YouTube Shorts, often accompanying videos that capture bizarre scenes or have a surreal vibe.

Be sure to check it out.

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Paint It, BlackThe Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones – Paint It, Black (Official Lyric Video)

A masterpiece released in 1966 by the British rock giants The Rolling Stones, this song paints a profound picture of sorrow and loss.

Noted for its exotic sitar sound, it was included on the U.S.

version of the album Aftermath and reached No.

1 on both the U.S.

and U.K.

charts.

With searing lyrics expressing the narrator’s grief over lost love and a desire to “paint it black,” the song leaves a powerful impression.

It was also used in Stanley Kubrick’s film Full Metal Jacket, where it became known as a symbol of the horrors of war.

An eternal classic that resonates with those bearing deep emotional wounds.