TikTok has revolutionized the music industry, turning unknown tracks into global hits almost overnight. With over a billion active users, the platform fosters an environment where songs can go viral through dance challenges, memes, or emotional storytelling. This virality often translates into significant spikes in streaming numbers, radio plays, and even Billboard chart rankings. Unlike traditional music promotion, which relies on marketing campaigns and radio airplay, TikTok’s algorithm-driven virality is organic and unpredictable. Artists, both emerging and established, have recognized the platform’s power and now tailor their releases to suit TikTok trends. The impact of this shift is undeniable—songs that trend on TikTok frequently climb the charts. But how exactly do these viral trends influence music rankings? Let’s break it down into key factors driving this phenomenon.
1. Boosting Streaming Numbers and Sales
One of the most significant ways TikTok trends impact music charts is by driving massive increases in streaming numbers. When a song goes viral on TikTok, millions of users search for it on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. A short 15-second clip can generate thousands of plays, pushing songs up the charts.
For example, tracks like “Drivers License” by Olivia Rodrigo and “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd saw exponential streaming growth following viral TikTok trends. The repeated exposure on TikTok encourages users to listen to full versions, leading to higher rankings on platforms like the Billboard Hot 100. TikTok’s influence extends to digital downloads as well, as users eager to own the trending track contribute to increased sales, further reinforcing the song’s chart dominance.
2. Reviving Old Songs and Forgotten Hits
Another fascinating effect of TikTok’s virality is its ability to breathe new life into old songs. Unlike traditional media, which typically focuses on new releases, TikTok allows any track—regardless of its release date—to find a fresh audience.
This phenomenon was evident when Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” re-entered the Billboard charts decades after its release, thanks to a viral skateboarding video. Similarly, artists like Kate Bush and Miguel have seen their older tracks return to prominence due to TikTok trends. This resurgence boosts catalog sales and streams, proving that a well-placed TikTok moment can redefine a song’s legacy. Record labels and artists are now more attuned to leveraging TikTok’s power, often re-promoting older tracks that gain traction on the platform.
Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” (image via Getty)3. Shaping Billboard and Viral Chart Rankings
TikTok’s influence on music charts is undeniable, particularly when it comes to Billboard rankings. The Billboard Hot 100 now takes streaming numbers into account, which means a viral TikTok song can quickly climb the charts based on user engagement.
Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” is a prime example of a song that exploded on TikTok before topping the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 19 weeks. Similarly, Doja Cat’s “Say So” and BTS’s “Dynamite” gained traction through TikTok challenges, solidifying their success on mainstream charts. Platforms like Spotify even have dedicated “Viral 50” playlists that track music gaining popularity on social media, further proving that TikTok trends directly correlate with chart success.
Doja Cat’s Say So (image via Getty)4. Influencing Artists’ and Labels’ Marketing Strategies
Due to TikTok’s growing dominance, record labels and artists now strategically design music to go viral on the platform. Many new songs feature catchy hooks, danceable beats, or relatable lyrics—all elements that TikTok users can easily incorporate into videos.
For example, Jack Harlow’s “First Class” and Megan Thee Stallion’s “Savage” were structured with TikTok-friendly moments in mind. Labels even collaborate with TikTok influencers to create trends around new releases, ensuring maximum exposure. Some artists tease snippets of unreleased songs on TikTok to gauge audience interest before the official drop, proving the platform’s role in shaping modern music promotion. The result? More songs are engineered for virality, leading to greater chances of chart success.