Popular Songs Frequently Heard on YouTube Shorts [Carefully Selected Edition]
TikTok is the social media platform that symbolizes the present day.
As the idea of enjoying short videos has taken hold, other social media platforms besides TikTok have also begun to focus on short-form content.
In this era, YouTube Shorts is having an impact comparable to TikTok.
Even if you don’t use TikTok, many of you have likely come across YouTube Shorts.
This time, we’ve picked out popular songs frequently used on YouTube Shorts—both Japanese and international—spanning a wide range of generations.
- Songs Frequently Used in YouTube Shorts [Dance Music Edition]
- An addictive song used on TikTok
- Songs by female artists you often hear on YouTube Shorts
- Popular anime songs you often hear on YouTube Shorts
- Recommended BGM for YouTube Shorts! Popular songs released in the Reiwa era
- Popular BGM on TikTok. A roundup of trending songs.
- Songs Frequently Used in YouTube Shorts [Korea / K-POP Edition]
- A stylish song that’s very popular on TikTok.
- Catchy Commercial Jingles and Ad Songs Featured on YouTube Shorts
- Heisei-era songs that are popular on YouTube Shorts
- Popular K-pop and Korean songs that brighten up YouTube Shorts
- Popular songs on TikTok
- Pick up the songs that went viral on social media! Reiwa-era dance numbers
Songs You Often Hear on YouTube Shorts [Carefully Selected Popular Edition] (21–30)
Only a single voicerokudenashi
A desperate cry from the heart, woven over delicate piano melodies.
It’s a masterpiece by Rokudenashi, the music project formed by vocalist Ninjin and Vocaloid producer MIMI.
Released in December 2021, the work powerfully speaks for the feelings of young people grappling with the difficulty of living and the weight of loneliness.
Its message—that you don’t have to force yourself to look ahead, and that you just want someone by your side—brought many listeners to tears.
That circle of empathy has kept growing, and as of December 2023, the song achieved the remarkable milestone of surpassing 100 million views on YouTube.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you long for a gentle embrace in the quiet of the night, or when you’re burdened with anxieties too hard to put into words.
Let yourself experience the voice that seeps into the soul.
DIA DELÍCIANAKAMA
There’s a sound that’s often used on YouTube Shorts alongside stylish, vibe-heavy videos.
Created by NAKAMA, a band based in Norway and Japan, this track has been drawing major attention in today’s social media scene.
Its appeal lies above all in its minimalist, addictive production: a comfortably repetitive beat paired with a subtly melancholic melody delivers a striking impact.
The song was released in April 2025 as part of the EP “DIA DELÍCIA,” and its tempo-altered version has racked up over 31 million plays.
Almond ChocolateILLIT
ILLIT, who belong to a label under HYBE, have quickly captured global attention since their debut.
Released in February 2025 as their first original Japanese track, this song was written as the theme for the film “I Won’t Fall in Love Just for a Pretty Face.” Co-written by SEKAI NO OWARI’s Nakajin and Pdogg, it’s a pop tune that sings of sweet yet bittersweet feelings of love.
The lyrics, which depict overflowing emotions toward someone you like or your “oshi” (favorite idol), have struck a chord with listeners, and the song is frequently used on YouTube Shorts in videos compiling precious moments of people’s faves and clips introducing Valentine’s sweets-making.
With its addictive melody and cute choreography, it’s a track that will resonate with anyone in love.
Be sure to check it out.
absorbed; engrossed; infatuated; crazy aboutBE:FIRST
BE:FIRST delivers a heartfelt declaration of straightforward love with a warm, gospel-inspired sound.
Their pure love song has been spreading on YouTube Shorts as moving background music.
The song’s charm lies in its portrayal of earnest, if a bit awkward, affection.
It conveys the desire to call a loved one’s name over and over, and the importance of everyday moments that communicate love without words—warming the hearts of listeners.
The track serves as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Thursday drama “Nami Ularakani, Meoto Biyori,” set in Showa-era Japan, and is included on the single “GRIT,” slated for release in May 2025.
It’s a perfect fit for heartwarming videos featuring partners or family.
Be sure to check it out.
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE, widely loved for their catchy sound and moving lyrics, have created a work that beautifully captures the sparkle of youth and the bittersweet feelings beneath it.
Within the limited time we have in life, it conveys a powerful message about facing anxiety and inner conflict—and even learning to cherish past pain.
Released in April 2024, the song is also known as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery.” Its win of the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards speaks to its immense popularity.
When you’re feeling anxious before a new challenge, this song gives you a gentle push forward.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who needs the courage to step into the future!
Let’s eat (a meal)!MEGA SHINNOSUKE
A buzzworthy release from multi-talented creator Mega Shinnosuke.
This work stands out for its warm sound woven by acoustic guitar and flowing strings, and it’s a track that gives you energy for busy days through the motif of “meals.” Released in October 2025, it was written as the opening theme for the popular TV anime “Hiroshi Nohara: The Lunchtime Way.” A unique anecdote from the MV production is that they actually hosted a dinner gathering with 13 groups of performers to capture natural expressions.
The song pairs perfectly with short videos featuring scenes of enjoying delicious food or everyday moments of taking a breather.
It will gently keep you company on lonely nights, too.
Be sure to check it out.
TetrisHiiragi Magunetaito
It’s a song that sharply portrays problems in modern society and the psychology of the internet age.
Its upbeat rhythm and addictive melody are striking, and Kasane Teto’s cute vocals are a major draw.
The lyrics depict an information-saturated society and the complexities of human relationships, resonating with many listeners.
Released in November 2024, it became a smash hit, surpassing 3 million views on YouTube within a week.
While using the game Tetris as a motif, it features deeply layered content that depicts the struggles of contemporary people.
On YouTube Shorts, it’s mainly used for dance challenge videos.
UNDEADYOASOBI
What matters most is living the present to the fullest—without being bound by the past or halted by fears of the future.
The powerful message conveyed by YOASOBI resonates deeply.
Released in July 2024, this work is based on an original short story written by NISIOISIN.
It drew attention as the theme song for the anime “Monogatari Series: Off & Monster Season.” Its bright, EDM-inspired sound and versatile vocals are captivating.
It’s a song for those who want to live true to themselves and keep looking forward.
On YouTube Shorts, it’s mainly used in dance and cover-singing videos.
La La LaMoai
This track features an energetic, catchy melody.
Included on the album “Holiday Dance Wave,” released in August 2023, it stands out with a unique sound that fuses EDM and Latin music elements.
It went viral on TikTok as the “Rinka Dance,” with many users posting dance videos and boosting its popularity.
The combination of a lively rhythm and a horn section creates an open, positive vibe.
It’s perfect for club and dance party playlists and is especially popular among young people.
It’s also recommended for anyone who wants to make fun videos on YouTube or social media.
2:23 AMsharou
Shallow is a Japanese composer who creates royalty-free music.
If you’ve ever edited videos for YouTube or similar platforms, you’ve likely used DOVA-SYNDROME, where Shallow publishes their works and has produced many memorable tracks.
“2:23 AM” is Shallow’s biggest hit.
You’ve probably heard it at least once on TikTok or YouTube Shorts.
Of course, it also makes perfect background music for Instagram Stories!
