TikTok Viral 2021: Hottest New Songs You Need To Hear

Hey guys! Ready to dive into the catchiest and most addictive tunes that took over TikTok in 2021? You know how it goes – one minute you're scrolling, and the next, you're hooked on a song you can't get out of your head. TikTok has become the ultimate launchpad for music, turning tracks into overnight sensations. Let's rewind and check out the songs that had everyone hitting repeat and creating killer dance challenges!

Top TikTok Viral Songs of 2021

In 2021, TikTok became the epicenter of music discovery, with countless songs going viral and dominating our For You pages. These aren't just any songs; they're the tracks that inspired dance crazes, creative challenges, and endless memes. One of the biggest hits was Erica Banks' "Buss It," which sparked the #BussItChallenge. This song's infectious beat and empowering lyrics made it a massive hit, encouraging users to show off their glow-ups. Another standout was "Up" by Cardi B, an anthem of confidence and ambition that quickly became a staple in TikTok workout videos and empowerment posts. The song’s high-energy vibe and quotable lyrics made it a perfect fit for the platform’s fast-paced content. Furthermore, Olivia Rodrigo's "drivers license" captured the hearts of millions with its raw emotion and relatable lyrics about heartbreak. Its popularity on TikTok led to countless users sharing their own stories of love and loss, creating a powerful sense of community. These songs didn’t just go viral; they became cultural moments, defining the sound of TikTok in 2021 and beyond. The impact of these tracks extended beyond the app, influencing mainstream music charts and solidifying TikTok's role as a major tastemaker in the music industry. From dance anthems to emotional ballads, the diversity of viral hits in 2021 showcased the platform's ability to cater to a wide range of tastes and moods, making it a vibrant and dynamic space for music discovery.

The Rise of Emerging Artists on TikTok

Tiktok has changed the game for emerging artists, providing a platform where they can bypass traditional gatekeepers and connect directly with a global audience. In 2021, many rising stars saw their careers skyrocket thanks to the app's viral potential. Take Tai Verdes, for instance, whose song "Stuck in the Middle" gained massive traction on TikTok, leading to a record deal and mainstream success. His relatable lyrics and catchy melody resonated with users, who used the song in countless videos showcasing their daily lives. Similarly, Popp Hunna's "Adderall (Corvette Corvette)" became a viral sensation, propelling him into the spotlight with its unique sound and playful lyrics. The song's popularity on TikTok translated into real-world success, as it climbed the music charts and garnered millions of streams. Another notable example is Bella Poarch, who initially rose to fame with her lip-sync videos but later launched her music career with the viral hit "Build a Bitch." The song's empowering message and catchy beat resonated with users, making it a viral sensation and solidifying her status as a multi-talented artist. TikTok's algorithm plays a crucial role in this phenomenon, as it prioritizes content based on engagement rather than follower count. This means that any user, regardless of their background or connections, has the potential to reach a massive audience if their content resonates with the community. This democratization of music discovery has leveled the playing field, allowing emerging artists to gain recognition and build their fan base organically. The success stories of these artists demonstrate TikTok's power to launch careers and disrupt the traditional music industry, making it an essential platform for anyone looking to break into the music scene.

Dance Challenges and Viral Trends

Dance challenges are the heart and soul of TikTok, and in 2021, they reached new heights of creativity and popularity. These challenges not only drive engagement but also play a significant role in popularizing songs. One of the most memorable trends was the #WipeItDown challenge, which featured Missy Elliott's iconic track "Work It." Users would start with a dirty mirror and, with a swipe, transform into a glamorous version of themselves, showcasing their creativity and style. The challenge's fun and engaging format made it a massive hit, generating millions of videos and introducing the song to a new generation of listeners. Another standout was the #SavageChallenge, set to Megan Thee Stallion's hit song "Savage." This challenge required users to learn and perform a specific dance routine, showcasing their skills and personality. The song's infectious beat and empowering lyrics made it a perfect fit for the platform, and the challenge quickly spread like wildfire, with celebrities and influencers joining in on the fun. Furthermore, the #Renegade challenge, originally set to K Camp's "Lottery (Renegade)," continued to be a dominant force in 2021, inspiring countless variations and adaptations. While the original creator of the dance, Jalaiah Harmon, received belated recognition, the challenge itself became a cultural phenomenon, demonstrating the power of TikTok to create and disseminate viral trends. These dance challenges not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community, as users come together to learn and share their own interpretations of the routines. The challenges also serve as a powerful marketing tool for artists, as they can help to boost a song's visibility and reach a wider audience. In 2021, dance challenges continued to be a driving force on TikTok, shaping the platform's culture and influencing the music industry in profound ways.

How TikTok Influenced the Music Industry in 2021

Tiktok's influence on the music industry in 2021 was undeniable, reshaping how songs are discovered, promoted, and consumed. The platform has become a crucial tool for artists and labels, offering a direct line to a massive and engaged audience. One of the most significant impacts is the acceleration of music discovery. Songs that might have taken months or years to gain traction through traditional channels can now go viral overnight on TikTok. This rapid dissemination of music has forced the industry to adapt and embrace the platform as a primary means of promotion. Labels are now actively seeking out trending sounds on TikTok and signing artists who have gained a following on the app. Furthermore, TikTok has democratized the music industry, giving emerging artists a platform to showcase their talent and build a fan base without the need for traditional gatekeepers. Artists like Lil Nas X, who initially gained fame on TikTok with his hit song "Old Town Road," have demonstrated the power of the platform to launch careers and disrupt the established order. The app's algorithm prioritizes content based on engagement, meaning that any user, regardless of their background or connections, has the potential to reach a massive audience if their content resonates with the community. In addition to promoting new music, TikTok has also played a significant role in reviving older songs. Tracks from decades past have found new life on the platform, thanks to viral trends and challenges. For example, Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams" experienced a resurgence in popularity after a TikTok video featuring Nathan Apodaca skateboarding and drinking cranberry juice went viral. This phenomenon demonstrates TikTok's ability to breathe new life into classic songs and introduce them to a new generation of listeners. Overall, TikTok's influence on the music industry in 2021 was transformative, reshaping how music is created, distributed, and consumed. The platform has become an essential tool for artists and labels, and its impact is likely to continue to grow in the years to come.

Still Trending: TikTok Songs to Watch Out For

Even after 2021, the TikTok beat goes on! There are always new sounds bubbling up. Keep an eye on these potential viral sensations! These songs showcase a variety of genres and styles, reflecting the diverse tastes of the TikTok community. One track to watch is "abcdefu" by GAYLE, an angsty and cathartic anthem that resonates with anyone who's ever gone through a breakup. The song's raw emotion and relatable lyrics have made it a viral sensation, with users creating countless videos showcasing their own experiences of heartbreak and anger. Another potential hit is "Meet Me At Our Spot" by THE ANXIETY (WILLOW & Tyler Cole), a dreamy and atmospheric track that's perfect for creating a chill and introspective vibe. The song's mellow beat and introspective lyrics have made it a popular choice for users looking to express their emotions and connect with others on a deeper level. Furthermore, "Good 4 U" by Olivia Rodrigo continues to be a dominant force on TikTok, with its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about heartbreak and jealousy. The song's popularity shows no signs of waning, as users continue to create new and innovative videos showcasing their own interpretations of the track. These songs represent just a small sample of the many potential viral hits that are bubbling up on TikTok. As the platform continues to evolve and innovate, it's likely that we'll see even more new and exciting music trends emerge in the years to come. So keep your ears open and your eyes peeled, because you never know when the next big TikTok sensation will strike!

So there you have it – a trip down memory lane filled with the biggest, baddest, and most unforgettable TikTok hits of 2021! Which song was your personal anthem? Let me know in the comments below, and happy TikTok-ing!