TikTok is one of the most powerful social media platforms for creators. In most cases, the audio selected can be crucial for having your video go viral. Millions of videos get uploaded daily, therefor its essential to make your content as engaging and discoverable as possible. One of the most effective ways to do this would be selecting the right music track.
Throughout this post we’ll explore why music is so critical on TikTok and share strategies to help you pick the perfect song to increase your chances of going viral.
1. Boost Discoverability with Trending Music
Music plays a huge role in TikTok’s algorithm, especially when it comes to discoverability. The trendier your sound is the higher your chance to be on the FYP is. This is where your chance for views will increase.
- TikTok Prioritizes Trending Sounds – The more similar your video matches current trends the more likely it is to appear on a FYP, which is where viral content thirves.
- Exposure to a Larger Audience – By selecting trendy songs, you increase the likelihood of your video being seen by a broader audience aside form your following.
- Get involved with Viral Challenges – Many viral TikTok trends and challenges are built around specific audios. When you get involved in a trend your content gets involved into a larger conversation.
Tip: Keep an eye on TikTok’s Discover page to track the latest trending sounds, and use them in your videos for better reach.

2. Create Emotional Connections
Music is one of the most effective ways to connect wiht an audience on an emotional level. Whether that is nostalgia, excitement, joy, or sadness, the music you select can significantly impact the way your viewers engage wiht your content.
- Set the Mood – Music can help set the tone of your video. More emotional and slower songs work well for personal stories or heartfelt moments. Where as upbeat songs work better for energetic and fun content.
- Increase Relatability – The right music can make your video feel more personal to someone and relatable. An audience can connect easily with your message or emotion.
- .Enhance Storytelling – When telling a story, music can guide how viewers will perceive the narriative, making it more engaging and impactful.
Tip: Match the song’s vibe with the theme of your video. For example, dance videos are best paired with fast, upbeat songs, while reflective content benefits from softer, slower music.
3. Encourage User-Generated Content
TikTok is driven by user-generated content (UGC), and music is one of the most effective ways to encourage this. When you use a catchy or unique track, it may spark others to create their own videos around the same sound, increasing your reach.
- Start a Trend or Challenge – When you use a trending song or create a new challenge with your chosen track, you can inspire your followers and others to participate, generating more content around your sound.
- Influence Other Creators – If your video goes viral with a particular song, it can inspire others to use that same music, leading to a wave of UGC and further amplification of your content.
- Boost Viral Potential – Music trends are often what make TikTok challenges go viral. By using the right sound, you’re opening up the possibility of being part of the next big trend.
Tip: Either participate in an existing trend or start your own by creating a challenge around a specific song. This can encourage others to create content using your track, amplifying your reach.

Conclusion
Music is far more than a background element on TikTok—it’s a driving force behind viral content and greater engagement. By choosing trending tracks, creating emotional connections, sparking user-generated content, and encouraging engagement, you’ll be able to boost your visibility and grow your audience.