Kristina Roberts
Music trends are always changing, and now, a new shift is happening on TikTok. Last year, electronic music took the lead over indie and alternative music in terms of views on the platform. Videos tagged with #ElectronicMusic got more than 13 billion views worldwide, which is 45% higher than in 2023. This shows that while some people still enjoy rock and indie music, a growing number of TikTok users are dancing to the beats of techno, house, and other electronic sounds.
The Rise of Electronic Music on TikTok:
TikTok has become one of the biggest platforms for discovering new music. Short videos with catchy electronic tracks are getting more attention than ever. The fast beats and energetic drops in electronic music make them perfect for short, engaging clips. Many users create dance challenges, transitions, and creative edits using these songs, helping them spread quickly.
On the other hand, indie and alternative music, which was once very popular on the app, is now growing at a slower rate. While bands like Oasis (led by the Gallagher brothers) are still selling out stadiums, their music isn’t getting as much traction on TikTok compared to electronic tracks. This doesn’t mean indie music is disappearing—it just means electronic music is now leading the trend.
Why Is Electronic Music So Popular?
There are a few reasons why electronic music is doing so well on TikTok. First, the rhythm of electronic songs is perfect for short videos. The drops (the most exciting part of an electronic track) make people want to watch and listen repeatedly. Many viral trends, like dance challenges and meme videos, use these high-energy moments.
Second, electronic music is often easier to remix and edit. Producers and DJs create different versions of the same track, which keeps the sound fresh. TikTok users love using these remixes in their videos, making the songs even more popular.
Lastly, electronic music festivals and DJs have a huge following online. When famous DJs like David Guetta or Martin Garrix release new music, their fans immediately use it in TikTok videos. This helps the songs spread faster than indie tracks, which may not always have the same instant appeal for short clips.
What Does This Mean for the Music Industry?
The music industry pays close attention to TikTok because it can make or break a song’s success. If a track goes viral on TikTok, it often climbs the charts on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Record labels now work with electronic producers to create songs specifically designed for TikTok trends.
Some indie artists are also trying to adapt by making shorter, more catchy versions of their songs. However, electronic music still has the upper hand because its style naturally fits the fast-paced nature of the app.
Quotes from Experts:
Dan Milmo, Global Technology Editor, says, “It is another example of the parallel worlds in the music industry. The Gallagher brothers may be taking over the world’s stadiums this summer, but over on TikTok, users are moving to a different beat.”
A music analyst from a leading record label shared, “TikTok is now the biggest driver of music trends. Electronic music’s growth on the platform shows how listener habits are changing—people want quick, high-energy sounds that match their scrolling experience.”
The Future of Music Trends on TikTok:
As TikTok continues to grow, we can expect more changes in music trends. Electronic music might stay on top for a while, but new styles could emerge. Genres like hyperpop, Afrobeat, and even country music are also gaining traction. The key factor is how well a song fits into short, engaging videos.
Artists and producers will keep experimenting to create the next big viral sound. Whether it’s through catchy hooks, danceable beats, or funny remixes, the battle for TikTok’s top music genre is far from over.
