TikTok’s Turbulent Start 2024: Top Viral Songs Take Over the App
In the first few months of 2024, TikTok faced a chaotic start with Universal Music Group (UMG) pulling its catalog from the platform. The move included massive artists like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and Drake. However, just in time for the release of Swift’s new album, The Tortured Poets Department, UMG’s music returned to TikTok.
During the four-month dry spell, Djo’s "End of Beginning" became a sensation, with its cinematic dream-pop melody and connection to actor Joe Keery. When the platform’s original music returned, TikTok users flocked to create content. Among the most popular viral songs are:
"BIRDS OF A FEATHER" by Billie Eilish
Eilish’s plea for friendship and romance became the go-to soundtrack on social media, with over 254,000 videos in just a few weeks.
"Espresso" by Sabrina Carpenter
This catchy and quotable hit rose to prominence after Olivia Rodrigo and Swift used it during their Eras Tour, with the hashtag #Espresso sparking countless memes and over 117,000 videos.
"Nasty" by Tinashe
The dance challenge originated from a viral TikTok video showcasing Nate’s impressive dance moves, garnering over 10 million views on X and almost 500,000 TikToks.
"Not Like Us" by Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick and Drake’s rap battle brought attention to this song, which became a chart-topper, with lyrics like "Certified Lover Boy, certified pedophiles" and "Tryna strike a chord, and it’s probably A-minor" sparking debates and analysis.
"TEXAS HOLD ‘EM" by BeyoncĂ©
A choreographed dance video to this song went viral, with users Dexter Mayfield and Matt McCall’s original clip receiving over 43.5 million views and 4.2 million likes.
"Too Sweet" by Hozier
This song sparked a photo-based trend, with users sharing before-and-after photos of themselves or celebrities to lyrics like "I’d rather take my whiskey neat."
These viral hits have given TikTok its edge back, offering users a platform for self-expression, discovery, and entertainment. As the year goes on, it’s clear that TikTok remains a hub for new music and innovative content.
