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, witnessing a phenomenon that continues to defy expectations and redefine how we interact with music.
Welcome to 2024, where TikTok’s algorithm isn’t just about discovering the next big artist; it’s about catapulting old-school bangers straight to the top of the charts as if they never left. With over a billion users, this platform is single-handedly breathing new life into songs that were once collecting dust on your parents’ playlists. From 1970s classics to early 2000s nostalgia, TikTok is reviving tracks we thought were long forgotten, and the sheer enthusiasm from a new generation is truly infectious.
This isn’t happening by accident. TikTok thrives on relatability, and nostalgia is one of its most powerful forms. The magic lies in the app’s ability to repackage these classics in 15-second bites that perfectly fit today’s fast-paced world, making your mum’s favorite jam back on the charts. As producer Teddy Riley wisely put it, “Good music never goes out of style. People are always going back because they want substance.” Indeed, TikTok has them covered, fostering a ripple effect where one viral video can lead to millions of plays across Spotify and Apple Music, introducing entire generations to songs they didn’t even know they needed. So, let’s take a deep dive into some of the incredible comebacks that have defined this musical renaissance.
1. **Fleetwood Mac – “Dreams” (1977)**Remember the bloke with the cranberry juice? That’s Nathan Apodaca, who became a cultural touchstone in 2020 for his chill skateboarding video, sipping Ocean Spray while lip-syncing to Stevie Nicks’s soothing vocals. His carefree vibe captured the internet’s heart, sending “Dreams” skyrocketing back into the charts after forty-two years and boosting its streams by an astounding 374%.
Even Mick Fleetwood himself joined the fun with his own tribute video, showcasing the song’s enduring appeal and the sheer power of an authentic, laid-back moment. The track’s opening drum shuffle and airy vocals provide a perfect, chill soundtrack for everything from sunset drives to study montages, making it a background anthem for positivity that aligns perfectly with TikTok’s slice-of-life content. Younger listeners, in particular, crave the vintage feel and warmth of analog recordings, finding a genuine authenticity absent in many modern digital productions.
2. **Michael Jackson – “Heaven Can Wait” (2001)**It’s one of MJ’s slowest songs, an album cut from 2001 that might not have been a massive chart-topper in its original run. Yet, on TikTok, “Heaven Can Wait” somehow managed to make everyone emotional, becoming the go-to soundtrack for moody aesthetic videos. The song, which originally peaked at No. 72 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart in 2002, found a remarkable second life.
Just a few weeks after gaining traction on TikTok, fans noticed its streaming numbers and YouTube views had shot up by millions, propelling it into Jackson’s top 10 on Spotify. This resurgence, according to producer Teddy Riley who co-wrote and produced the track, stems from the song’s genuine emotion and palpable substance. He recounted how Jackson felt the song so deeply that it brought tears, a raw authenticity that resonates profoundly with TikTok users who are hyperaware of insincerity in music.
3. **Aly & AJ – “Potential Breakup Song” (2007)**Turns out, teenage angst never truly goes out of style. This pop-rock anthem from Aly & AJ, originally released in 2007, made a thunderous comeback on TikTok, proving that its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics about relationship drama still hit hard. The song became a staple for dramatic lip-syncs, comedic skits, and videos expressing exasperation with romantic woes.
TikTok thrives on relatability, and the universal experience of a “potential breakup” provides a powerful connection for users, regardless of when the song was first released. The track’s direct, no-holds-barred lyrics make it perfect for short-form video storytelling, allowing creators to tap into shared emotional experiences with humor and flair. Its resurgence highlights how a song’s core message, when framed correctly within a trend, can transcend its original context and find a new, eager audience.
4. **Jack Johnson – “Banana Pancakes” (2005)**This mellow, acoustic tune by Jack Johnson, a quintessential background track for lazy Sunday mornings, received one of the most unexpected boosts on TikTok. Its gentle rhythms and laid-back vibe found a peculiar new home thanks to a viral TikTok trend about… shoplifting. It sounds strange, but hey, it worked.
The unexpected pairing of a wholesome, easygoing song with a slightly absurd or humorous trend is a testament to TikTok’s unpredictable nature. The platform’s algorithm often creates surprising juxtapositions that capture attention and drive engagement. This particular instance demonstrates how any song, no matter its original intent or genre, can become the soundtrack to a viral moment, simply because users find a creative and often humorous way to integrate it into their content.
5. **Earth, Wind & Fire – “Let’s Groove” (1981)**Is it even TikTok if no one’s dancing? This iconic funk and disco track from Earth, Wind & Fire made sure that no one stood still on the platform. “Let’s Groove,” first released in 1981, became a sensation for vibrant dance challenges and celebratory content, compelling users to get up and move. Its infectious beat and undeniable energy are simply irresistible.
The song’s resurgence was notably driven by a viral dance trend, which saw its Spotify streams rise by a significant 24.7% in the 60 days following its peak on TikTok charts. Disco and funk grooves, with their steady tempos, inherently invite choreography, making them prime material for TikTok’s visual flair. The platform’s algorithm rewards upbeat content and engaging movement, ensuring that a track like “Let’s Groove” found a massive new audience eager to express themselves through dance.
6. **Boney M. – “Rasputin” (1978)**If you ever thought this quirky Euro-disco track about Russia’s infamous mystic would never resurface, well, TikTok clearly had other plans. What began as a fun, energetic dance challenge quickly snowballed into a global trend, with users mastering its flamboyant footwork while the memorable lyrics played overhead. “Rasputin” saw streaming numbers jump by hundreds of percent and even received fresh radio play for the first time in decades, proving its timeless appeal.
The song’s driving beat and theatrical storytelling are a perfect match for TikTok’s love for visual flair and dramatic choreography. Creators often embraced costumes, historical memes, and comedic edits, enhancing the disco-era drama that makes the track so captivating. The combination of an instantly recognizable sound and a highly adaptable narrative hook meant that “Rasputin” became a genuine phenomenon, captivating millions with its irresistible energy and unique backstory.
7. **Edison Lighthouse – “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” (1970)**Who would have guessed that a charming pop song from 1970 would find a vibrant second life as the soundtrack for countless DIY TikToks and heartwarming relationship stories? “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” became a staple sound, and creatively, TikTok users even made the titular character “Rosemary” gender-neutral in their renditions. Its journey from 8.7 million to over 67.7 million Spotify streams during its peak period is nothing short of astounding.
The band members themselves shared that the song’s “vintage” and abstract lyrics open it up to a variety of interpretations, allowing each listener to imagine “Rosemary” as a figure of their own. They expressed that amidst the negativity in the world, having a song called “Love Grows” go viral is a refreshing reminder of positivity. This unexpected revival didn’t just boost the song; it skyrocketed the band’s name, leading to an average of 1 million Spotify streams a week across their entire catalog in 2022, proving the profound and lasting impact of TikTok virality on an entire discography.
8. **Kate Bush – “Running Up That Hill” (1985)**What an absolute whirlwind it was for Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)” in 2022! This 1985 synth-pop masterpiece, a true classic, wasn’t just rediscovered; it practically exploded back into the mainstream thanks to a powerhouse combination: the sci-fi phenomenon *Stranger Things* and, of course, the ever-influential TikTok. It wasn’t just a hit; it became one of the biggest songs of the year, decades after its initial release, proving that exceptional music truly has no expiry date.
The track’s dramatic resurgence on TikTok went hand-in-hand with its prominent feature in the critically acclaimed Netflix series, where it underscored a pivotal, emotionally charged scene. This powerful narrative context breathed incredible new life into the older music, propelling it into the digital zeitgeist. Users flocked to create content inspired by the show’s intense moments, using Bush’s haunting vocals and atmospheric synths to underscore dramatic montages and emotional storytelling.
On the platform, “Running Up That Hill” quickly became the perfect soundtrack for everything from deep, introspective moments and self-reflection videos to high-energy visual edits depicting personal struggles and triumphs. It perfectly showcased how a song’s complex themes of power, gender, and sacrifice can resonate profoundly with a whole new generation, inviting them to explore the deeper meanings behind the lyrics and solidifying its status as an enduring cultural touchstone, more relevant than ever before.
9. **OutKast – “Ms. Jackson” (2000)**Oh, “Ms. Jackson,” the iconic apology anthem from OutKast, is another gem that TikTok plucked from the archives and presented to a fresh audience with a whole lot of enthusiasm. Released in 2000, this track’s heartfelt (and delightfully sarcastic) refrain, “I’m sorry, Ms. Jackson,” proved to be just as relatable and undeniably meme-worthy today as it was over two decades ago. It’s a genuine testament to the enduring power of well-crafted lyrics about the often-complicated dynamics of relationships that they can so effortlessly transcend generations and still hit all the right notes.
TikTok users, with their innate knack for turning universally relatable situations into viral content, wholeheartedly embraced “Ms. Jackson.” It became the perfect soundtrack for everything from comedic skits lampooning relationship drama, to elaborate apology videos, and even shared experiences of familial or romantic disagreements and misunderstandings. The song’s unique blend of infectious hip-hop beats, soulful harmonies, and poignant storytelling provided an ideal, versatile backdrop for creators to express a wide spectrum of emotions, from genuine remorse to playful defiance.
The track’s comeback highlights how powerful a memorable phrase or a universally understood scenario can be in the TikTok ecosystem. Its catchy hook and narrative structure made it instantly adaptable for short-form video storytelling, allowing countless users to inject their own personal spin on OutKast’s classic. This spirited revival truly showed that some apologies, especially those set to such a killer beat and an unforgettable narrative, never truly go out of style and can continuously find new ways to connect with listeners.
10. **Nelly Furtado – “Promiscuous” (2006)**Get ready to feel those incredible early 2000s vibes, because Nelly Furtado’s “Promiscuous,” her sizzling collaboration with the legendary Timbaland from 2006, found itself making a massive, undeniable comeback on TikTok. This track, bursting with an irresistible energy, undeniable chemistry, and a beat that just wouldn’t quit, wasn’t just a massive hit back in the day; it’s now firmly embedded in TikTok’s soundbank, proving that some songs are just too cool and too catchy to ever truly fade away from the public consciousness.
The playfully flirty back-and-forth lyrics, the undeniable swagger, and the slick, Timbaland-produced beat made “Promiscuous” a natural, instant fit for TikTok’s dynamic content formats. Users enthusiastically tapped into its confident, teasing energy for everything from vibrant dance trends and stylish fashion transitions to humorous comedic scenarios revolving around social interactions, dating dynamics, and playful banter. It instantly transported users back to the golden era of pop and R&B, yet felt fresh and current.
This resurgence highlighted how a song with such a strong, distinctive rhythm and a conversational, almost theatrical style can become an absolute go-to for creators looking to add a touch of confident, noughties-era cool to their videos. It was a fantastic way to introduce Nelly Furtado and Timbaland’s magical musical synergy to a whole new legion of fans who might have missed it the first time around, showing that true bangers always find their way back into the spotlight.
11. **Cranberries – “Zombie” (1994)**The raw power and intense emotion of The Cranberries’ 1994 anthem “Zombie” proved utterly irresistible to TikTok users seeking a compelling soundtrack for their more somber, dramatic, or aesthetically moody content. This grunge-rock classic, instantly recognizable for Dolores O’Riordan’s piercing, evocative vocals and its profoundly poignant lyrics, didn’t just resurface; it found a new, powerful home on TikTok’s ever-expanding aesthetic playlist, particularly for creators crafting visually striking and emotionally charged montages that demand attention.
On the platform, “Zombie” quickly became the go-to sound for dramatic black-and-white videos, intensely expressive lip-syncs, and content reflecting on serious societal themes, often imbued with a hint of protest, deep introspection, or a yearning for justice. The song’s deep, resonant meaning, rooted in history and powerful social commentary, struck a chord with users who appreciate music with genuine substance and a potent, unwavering message that challenges the status quo. It proved that not all viral hits need to be lighthearted.
Its impactful comeback showcased TikTok’s capacity to highlight not just lighthearted dance trends and fleeting memes, but also to significantly amplify songs that provide a profound emotional anchor for more thoughtful and artistic expressions. The enduring relevance of its message, coupled with its distinctive sound, allowed “Zombie” to connect with a new generation eager to engage with music that speaks to deeper truths, reinforcing its status as a timeless and impactful protest song.
12. **No Doubt – “Don’t Speak” (1996)**Few songs encapsulate the raw, universal ache of a breakup quite as perfectly as No Doubt’s 1996 smash hit, “Don’t Speak.” And wouldn’t you know it? TikTok, the ultimate musical time machine, brought it back with a vengeance, proving beyond a shadow of a doubt that Gwen Stefani’s iconic heartbreak still hits just as hard today, decades after its initial release. This emotionally charged anthem became an undeniable staple for countless users eager to relive or articulate their own relationship woes, turning deeply personal pain into universally understood, shareable content.
On TikTok, “Don’t Speak” found vibrant new life through a multitude of creative interpretations. It provided the perfect backdrop for dramatic lip-syncs, witty comedic skits about awkward encounters with ex-partners, and profoundly sincere videos expressing the agony and confusion of a failing or recently ended relationship. The song’s instantly recognizable melody, intricate instrumentation, and Gwen Stefani’s incredibly emotive and vulnerable delivery provided an ideal, versatile canvas for creators to channel their deepest feelings, whether in jest or in earnest.
The enduring popularity of this track on the platform was a powerful reminder that while trends come and go with lightning speed, the fundamental, universal experience of heartbreak—especially when masterfully soundtracked by a true classic like “Don’t Speak”—continues to connect people across digital divides and generational lines. It solidified the song’s legacy not just as a 90s anthem, but as a timeless ode to love lost, always ready to resonate with new audiences whenever they need it most.
13. **Shaggy – “It Wasn’t Me” (2000)**Oh, the classic dilemma, the universal plea: “It Wasn’t Me!” Shaggy’s iconic 2000 hit, a brilliant masterclass in comedic denial and plausible deniability, has been absolutely resurrected by TikTok with an explosion of creativity and humor. This track, originally a global sensation for its hilariously catchy take on infidelity and its memorable back-and-forth dialogue, found its spirited second calling as the ultimate meme-worthy soundtrack for relationship drama and suspicious activities of all kinds on the platform.
TikTok’s incredibly creative community, acting as veritable “detectives” and storytellers, quickly latched onto the song’s unmistakable spoken-word intro and infectious, groovy chorus. Users crafted countless hilarious scenarios, ranging from innocent misunderstandings to outright comedic confessions of minor domestic transgressions or caught-in-the-act antics, using “It Wasn’t Me” to perfectly underscore moments of playful deception or relatable, everyday mischief. Its sheer versatility made it a fan favorite.
It’s a brilliant, shining example of how a song’s strong narrative hook, combined with an unforgettable melody and a distinct personality, when paired with TikTok’s visual storytelling capabilities, can be effortlessly reinterpreted and revitalized for modern comedic gold. This revival showcased that some stories, especially those with a healthy dose of humor and a catchy beat, are just timeless, proving that good clean fun (or playfully dubious situations) always finds its audience, no matter the decade.
14. **BTS – “Dynamite” (2020)**While many of TikTok’s most celebrated resurrected hits hail from decades past, the platform also has a unique and powerful knack for amplifying contemporary tracks, especially when they come from global K-pop royalty like BTS. Their exhilarating 2020 global smash, “Dynamite,” though not “old” in the traditional sense of this list, found an incredible, explosive resonance on TikTok, showcasing the platform’s undeniable power to extend the reach of already record-breaking artists to new, unprecedented heights.
“Dynamite” perfectly embodies the joyful, relentlessly upbeat energy that often thrives and explodes on TikTok. Its vibrant, perfectly synchronized choreography, irresistibly positive message, and undeniable catchiness made it an instant staple for countless dance challenges, heartwarming feel-good montages, and celebratory content across the entire app. It wasn’t just a song; it was a pure injection of serotonin, spreading smiles and encouraging movement globally.
For BTS, a group already accustomed to “breaking records” and dominating global charts, TikTok provided yet another massive, accessible stage, cementing their status as cultural icons and demonstrating how the platform acts as an unparalleled global accelerator for music. It transforms even recent hits into omnipresent cultural phenomena for millions worldwide, proving that TikTok is as much about celebrating current bangers as it is about rediscovering vintage gold, blurring the lines between new and old in exciting ways.
15. **Billy Joel – “Vienna” (1977)**It’s wonderfully, almost poetically ironic that a song primarily about the profound importance of slowing down, embracing patience, and truly enjoying life—Billy Joel’s exquisite 1977 ballad “Vienna”—received such a speedy, viral revival on TikTok. This deeply introspective classic, with its timeless message of self-acceptance and the wisdom of waiting for the right moment, struck an incredibly deep chord with a generation often grappling with the relentless pressures of modern life, making it an unexpected but perfect go-to soundtrack for moments of contemplation, self-discovery, or even a relatable “existential crisis,” if you will.
On TikTok, “Vienna” transcended its original context to become the poignant backdrop for a wide array of reflective montages, personal growth journeys, and heartfelt videos exploring universal themes of career pressure, navigating societal expectations, finding inner peace, and the profound wisdom embedded in its advice to “slow down, you’re doing fine.” Its rich, melodious piano arrangements and deeply thoughtful lyrics provided a soulful, grounding counterpoint to the app’s usual fast pace, offering a moment of genuine calm amidst the digital chaos.
The song’s resurgence proved that even in a world obsessed with instant gratification and constant motion, there’s a powerful, enduring hunger for music that offers substance, encourages reflection, and delivers a comforting, reassuring reminder to breathe. “Vienna” became a beacon for users seeking solace and perspective, showcasing how older music can provide much-needed wisdom and emotional connection, solidifying its status as a timeless piece that continues to inspire and resonate across all ages.
The resurgence of these incredible tracks isn’t just a quirky phenomenon; it’s a profound shift in how we consume, discover, and even appreciate music. TikTok has transformed from a quirky dance app into a preeminent tastemaker and cultural compass, fundamentally reshaping the music industry. As music executives pointed out, “In the past two years, we’ve seen a 12% increase in streams for songs that hit TikTok’s top charts,” demonstrating a clear spill-over effect from the app to major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. It’s a ripple effect where a single viral video can lead to millions of plays, introducing entire generations to songs they didn’t even know they needed.
This trend is a goldmine for nostalgia, but it’s also driven by Gen Z’s desire for authenticity and unique sounds. “Good music never goes out of style,” as producer Teddy Riley wisely noted, and TikTok provides a “level playing field” for all music, old or new, to find an audience. Tracks more than five years old are increasingly popular, making up a significant portion of top charts globally and in the UK in 2024. The platform’s algorithm, combined with easy access to vast online music libraries, user-generated content, and even movie soundtracks, empowers consumers to seek out less mainstream music and express individuality. This means music labels have an unprecedented opportunity to re-promote and monetize their back catalogs, while artists can reach new audiences.
Looking ahead to 2025, companies must recognize TikTok’s democratizing influence. The future of music discovery is less about traditional gatekeepers and more about viral moments and community engagement. Brands should monitor TikTok trends closely, leverage their existing music catalogs, and create content that encourages user participation, potentially partnering with influencers to maximize reach. This era is about embracing the unexpected, understanding that the lines between “old” and “new” music are continuously blurring. TikTok’s “Time Machine” isn’t just a trend; it’s a testament to the enduring power of music, ensuring that every loop, every scroll, and every share has room for a little vintage magic, connecting us all through a shared love for timeless tunes. This dynamic landscape promises a more diverse musical future, where hidden gems from any era can suddenly shine brightest.
