Let’s be honest. If you’d told me a few years ago that TikTok—yes, the app best known for dance trends and lip-syncing—would also become a musical time machine, I’d have probably asked you to put down your phone and step outside. But here we are.
Welcome to 2024, where TikTok’s algorithm is bringing back old-school bangers and catapulting them straight to the top of the charts as if they never left.
With over a billion users, TikTok isn’t just for discovering new artists. Oh no.
It’s single-handedly breathing new life into songs that were collecting dust on your parents’ playlists.
From 1970s classics to early 2000s nostalgia, TikTok is reviving tracks we thought were long forgotten—and we’re definitely not complaining.
So let’s take a trip down memory lane, where oldies meet viral challenges, and some bloke with a skateboard and cranberry juice becomes the unlikely hero of Fleetwood Mac.
TikTok: Where Nostalgia and Trends Collide
Before we dive into the playlist, let’s discuss why TikTok is giving CPR to songs from decades ago. It’s simple: TikTok thrives on nostalgia.
Whether it’s a viral dance challenge or a moody montage, the platform has made it cool again to jam out to tunes that predate smartphones.
And with Gen Z leading the charge, who needs new music when you can rediscover Dreams by Fleetwood Mac or Running Up That Hill by Kate Bush? (Yes, Stranger Things helped, but TikTok finished the job).
The magic lies in the app’s ability to repackage these classics in 15-second bites that fit into today’s fast-paced world.
Just like that, your mum’s favourite jam is back on the charts.
Why Are Old Songs So Viral Now?
It’s no accident that these old songs are popping up on your FYP. TikTok thrives on relatability, and nostalgia is one of the most powerful forms of it.
Plus, TikTok’s unique blend of music and virality means the right snippet of a song can catch fire faster than you can say “algorithm.”
“Good music never goes out of style,” said producer Teddy Riley. “People are always going back because they want substance.” Well, TikTok’s got them covered.
And it’s not just happening in the West. Afrobeats, reggaeton, and even K-pop have all found a second life on TikTok.
Whether it’s a catchy chorus, a fun beat, or the sheer nostalgia factor, these songs have a way of turning TikTok users into accidental DJs.
The Spill-Over Effect: From TikTok to Streaming Platforms
When a song goes viral on TikTok, it doesn’t just stay there. The magic spills over into other platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
“In the past two years, we’ve seen a 12% increase in streams for songs that hit TikTok’s top charts,” said music executives.
It’s a ripple effect: one viral video leads to millions of plays and a whole new generation discovering (or rediscovering) songs they didn’t even know they needed in their lives.
Now, let’s get to the fun part: which songs exactly have made their TikTok comeback?
15 Old Songs That TikTok Brought Back to Life
Fleetwood Mac – “Dreams” (1977)
Remember the bloke with the cranberry juice? That’s Nathan Apodaca, who went viral in 2020 for skateboarding and sipping Ocean Spray while lip-syncing to Dreams.
His chill vibe sent the song skyrocketing back into the charts, boosting streams by 374%.
Even Mick Fleetwood joined the fun with his own tribute video.
For a deeper dive into Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits and the stories behind them, check out this journey through theirdiscography on Neon Music.
Michael Jackson – “Heaven Can Wait” (2001)
It’s one of MJ’s slowest songs, but on TikTok, it’s somehow got everyone emotional—while creating moody aesthetic videos.
If you want to dive deeper into Michael Jackson’s incredible musical journey and his iconic songs, check out this comprehensive guide to his legacy on Neon Music.
Aly & AJ – “Potential Breakup Song” (2007)
Turns out, teenage angst never really goes out of style. This song still slaps.
Jack Johnson – “Banana Pancakes” (2005)
This mellow tune got an unexpected boost thanks to a viral TikTok about… shoplifting. Strange, but hey, it worked.
Earth, Wind & Fire – “Let’s Groove” (1981)
Is it even TikTok if no one’s dancing? This classic track made sure no one stood still.
Boney M. – “Rasputin” (1978)
If you thought this quirky Euro-disco track would never resurface, well, TikTok had other plans. Dance trends galore!
Edison Lighthouse – “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” (1970)
Who knew a song from 1970 would find a second life as the soundtrack for DIY TikToks? TikTok users have even made Rosemary gender-neutral.
Kate Bush – “Running Up That Hill” (1985)
Thanks to Stranger Things and TikTok, this became one of 2022’s biggest hits… again.
For a deeper look into the complex themes of power, gender, and sacrifice in Running Up That Hill, explore this detailed analysis.”
OutKast – “Ms. Jackson” (2000)
TikTok even brought OutKast’s iconic apology song back. Turns out, “I’m sorry, Ms. Jackson” is still relatable.
Nelly Furtado – “Promiscuous” (2006)
Let’s just say Nelly’s collaboration with Timbaland is now firmly embedded in TikTok’s soundbank.
Cranberries – “Zombie” (1994)
The ultimate moody song found its place on the TikTok aesthetic playlist. Perfect for dramatic black-and-white montages.
If you’re curious about the deeper meaning behind Zombie, check out this lyrical dive into history and protest from us.”
No Doubt – “Don’t Speak” (1996)
Gwen Stefani’s heartbreak still hits hard. TikTok users are reliving that emotional rollercoaster.
Shaggy – “It Wasn’t Me” (2000)
Relationship drama? TikTok’s detectives have turned this classic into a meme-worthy track for all your suspicious activity.
BTS – “Dynamite” (2020)
Alright, this one isn’t that old, but it’s K-pop royalty. BTS breaking records? Business as usual on TikTok.
Billy Joel – “Vienna” (1977)
For a song that’s about slowing down, TikTok sure gave it a speedy revival. Existential crisis, anyone?
If you want to dive deeper into why Vienna is more relevant than ever, read this reflection on its timeless message.
The TikTok-ification of Music
This resurgence of old songs might seem like a temporary trend, but don’t be fooled. TikTok is reshaping the entire music industry.
It’s no longer just about what’s new—it’s about what resonates, whether that’s a 2020 K-pop hit or a ballad from the ’70s.
As TikTok transforms from a quirky dance app into a cultural powerhouse, we might start seeing even more unexpected comebacks. Next thing you know, Beethoven’s got a viral track.
