What Makes Good Music for TikTok?

TikTok has revolutionized the way we interact with music. The platform’s brief, engaging videos are often accompanied by catchy tunes that enhance their viral potential. In 2024, understanding what makes good music for TikTok can significantly boost your content’s reach and performance.

Good TikTok audio music is crafted with social media’s attention economy in mind, emphasizing the importance of hooky, memorable tracks that can quickly capture a viewer's attention. Let's dive into what makes a piece of music ideal for TikTok and how you can leverage these elements in your own content.

Understanding TikTok's Viral Audio Phenomenon

TikTok's algorithm heavily favors content that achieves high engagement rates. Music plays a crucial role in achieving this by setting the tone and mood of the video. A successful audio track often includes a catchy hook, an easily identifiable chorus, or a comedic or emotional soundbite that can be easily looped and memed.

Elements of Good Music for TikTok

The top TikTok hits share several common features:

• Catchiness: The most crucial element. A song needs a memorable and captivating melody.
• Relatability: Lyrics and themes that resonate with wide audiences often do the best.
• Repeatability: A segment of the song should be loop-friendly, encouraging users to play it over and over.
• Visual Compatibility: The audio should lend itself well to popular visual themes and trends, whether it's dance, comedy, or drama.

The music you choose needs to align well with the content you are producing. For example, upbeat and energetic tracks are great for dance videos, while slow, mellow tunes may work better for more introspective or emotional content.

Finding the Right Music for Your TikTok Videos

Choosing the right music can be daunting due to the sheer volume of options available. Here are a few tips to help you navigate:

1. Follow Trends:

Keep an eye on the latest trends. TikTok makes it easier by showcasing trending sounds on the discovery page. Pay attention to what’s popular and consider how you can use similar audio tracks in your content.

2. Use Sounds Wisely:

Don’t just jump on any trending sound. Make sure the sound enhances your video's story or message. If it feels forced, your audience will notice.

3. Leverage Original Content:

Creating your own unique sounds and tracks can set you apart from the crowd. If you’re a musician, try incorporating snippets of your own songs. This can also help in establishing your musical brand.

4. Collaborate with Other TikTok Users:

Partner with fellow TikTokers, especially those whose content aligns with your musical style. A duet or a featured sound can help you reach new audiences.

5. Utilize Online Resources:

There are several platforms and tools that can help you discover and use legal music on TikTok. Platforms like SoundOn, among others, provide artists with distribution services to ensure their tracks reach TikTok effectively. Registering as a SoundOn artist can help you get your music out there.

Case Studies: TikTok Music Success Stories

Many songs have found new life on TikTok, propelling their artists to unprecedented fame. Let's look at a few examples:

"Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X

Before its explosion in mainstream media, "Old Town Road" gained traction on TikTok through viral dance challenges. The song’s catchy tune and relatable lyrics made it perfect for looping and meme creation.

"Say So" by Doja Cat

Doja Cat's "Say So" became a TikTok anthem thanks to a viral dance. The song's catchy beat and fun lyrics lent themselves perfectly to the platform's interactive nature.

"Savage Love" by Jawsh 685 and Jason Derulo

Started as a simple beat, "Savage Love" blew up on TikTok, leading to Jason Derulo adding vocals and creating a full-fledged hit. This track's viral dance trend helped cement its success.

The Future of TikTok Music

As TikTok continues to grow, the influence of music on the platform will only increase. Brands and artists are finding innovative ways to engage with audiences through music, setting the stage for new trends and viral phenomena.

For musicians, understanding the dynamics of TikTok audio can offer unparalleled opportunities for exposure and engagement. Platforms like SoundOn can help artists navigate these waters, making it easier to get their music in front of a massive audience.

Conclusion

Good music for TikTok is all about creating a connection. Whether it's through a catchy chorus, a relatable lyric, or a memorable beat, the right audio can turn a simple video into a viral sensation. Keep your finger on the pulse of trends, be authentic, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your sounds.

Ready to make your mark on TikTok? Start by exploring platforms like SoundOn for your music distribution needs. As a registered SoundOn artist, you can seamlessly distribute your tracks across TikTok and other major streaming platforms, ensuring your music reaches a global audience.