TikTok has often been seen as a hub for pop culture and viral dances. But delve a little deeper, and you’ll discover an eclectic mix of rock and metal tracks that offer something far removed from the usual fare. Here are some rock and metal gems that are worth your attention on TikTok.
While TikTok is largely dominated by hip-hop and pop, rock and metal songs have found a cozy corner in the platform, driving trends and evoking nostalgia. These songs not only underscore a range of TikTok videos but also invite listeners to explore musical territories they might not have ventured into otherwise.
Contents
- 1. “Mary On A Cross” by Ghost
- 2. “SURRENDER TO ME” by Curly Smith
- 3. “In the End” by Linkin Park
- 4. “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay
- 5. “I’m Just a Kid” by Simple Plan
- 6. “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol
- 7. “I Miss You” by Blink-182
- 8. “Teenagers” by My Chemical Romance
- 9. “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane
- 10. “Master of Puppets” by Metallica
- 11. “We’ll Be Back” by Megadeth
- 12. “House of Memories” by Panic! At The Disco
- 13. “Just Pretend” by Bad Omens
- 14. “BLVCK PILL” by Prompts
- 15. “Custer” by Slipknot
- 16. “Always Somewhere” by Scorpions
- 17. “King for a Day” by Pierce The Veil
- 18. “Gaddaar” by Bloodywood
- 19. “Misery Business” by Paramore
- 20. “Prom Queen” by Beach Bunny
- Final Thoughts
1. “Mary On A Cross” by Ghost
This Swedish heavy metal band known for their theatrical stage presence also has the uncanny ability to produce songs that stick. “Mary On A Cross” is no exception. Its haunting lyrics and gritty instrumental work serve as the perfect backdrop for TikToks that explore darker, more emotional themes.
The retro yet modern feel of the song encapsulates a range of moods, making it versatile enough for a variety of content, from heart-wrenching stories to eerie, atmospheric visuals.
2. “SURRENDER TO ME” by Curly Smith
An under-the-radar gem, ‘SURRENDER TO ME’ by Curly Smith gives TikTok users a dose of pure, vintage rock ‘n’ roll. Featured prominently in retro-themed TikToks, the song has become synonymous with classic American cool. Its melodious guitar riffs and catchy vocals set the stage for a trip down memory lane, reminding us of the golden age of rock.
3. “In the End” by Linkin Park
A staple in the nu-metal genre, Linkin Park’s “In the End” has resurfaced on TikTok to resonate with a new generation. The blend of rap verses with a melodious chorus has captivated TikTokers who lean towards introspective or poignant content. It’s a song that aligns well with a range of emotions, making it a versatile pick for creators who want to discuss anything from life struggles to personal insights.
4. “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay
Adding a splash of alt-rock to the TikTok mix, Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida” has become synonymous with emotionally-charged storytelling on the platform. Its dramatic strings and contemplative lyrics offer an elevated musical backdrop for a wide variety of video themes. Whether it’s a travelogue set against an awe-inspiring landscape or a slice-of-life vignette, “Viva La Vida” lends a cinematic quality that makes even mundane moments seem epic.
5. “I’m Just a Kid” by Simple Plan
Simple Plan’s “I’m Just a Kid” catapulted to fame in the early 2000s as the soundtrack for teenage disillusionment. Fast forward to the TikTok era, and the song has found a new audience. Its anthemic chorus and heartfelt lyrics have struck a chord with young creators, offering a sonic canvas for exploring themes like adolescent challenges, friendship complexities, and family dynamics.
6. “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol
Though Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars” is hardly a newcomer to popular playlists, it has found a second life on TikTok. This poignant rock ballad is often used in emotive videos that revolve around love, loss, or contemplative moments. With its soaring vocals and gentle instrumentation, it adds a tender layer to content, making even a short clip feel like a feature film of human emotions.
7. “I Miss You” by Blink-182
Blink-182’s “I Miss You” captures a unique blend of punk rock and emo vibes, making it an excellent addition to the TikTok repertoire. The song’s nostalgic undertones and catchy lyrics have found a new home in videos that touch upon themes of longing, past relationships, and the general angst that comes with young love. It’s as if the song was made to be the background music for reflective late-night scrolling.
8. “Teenagers” by My Chemical Romance
A song that virtually defined a generation, My Chemical Romance’s “Teenagers” is buzzing with youthful rebellion. The song has been picked up on TikTok for its rebellious tone, often used to underscore moments of teen angst, social commentary, or straight-up nostalgia for the 2000s emo phase. Its edgy guitar riffs and biting lyrics offer a punchy musical backdrop for a wide array of content.
9. “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane
Known for its touching lyrics and evocative piano melody, Keane’s “Somewhere Only We Know” has carved a space for itself on TikTok. The song serves as an emotional backdrop for a variety of videos. Whether it’s a picturesque nature walk, a sentimental montage, or a heartfelt story, this track wraps the content in a comforting sonic blanket that instantly makes you feel at home.
10. “Master of Puppets” by Metallica
Breaking into the heavier side of things, Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” brings a dose of intense metal to TikTok’s music library. This iconic track is not for the faint of heart and is often employed in videos that aim to electrify, be it action-packed sports clips or frenzied video game battles. Its driving guitar riffs and powerful percussion set a high-octane tone that’s hard to ignore.
11. “We’ll Be Back” by Megadeth
When it comes to thrash metal, Megadeth is a name that needs no introduction. Their track “We’ll Be Back” has made an interesting splash on TikTok, often accompanying videos that carry a defiant or rebellious tone. Whether it’s showcasing an intense workout or articulating social issues, this Megadeth classic never disappoints.
12. “House of Memories” by Panic! At The Disco
Panic! At The Disco’s “House of Memories” is a fan-favorite track that’s found its way into the fabric of TikTok’s diverse music landscape. The song’s poetic lyrics and dramatic melody make it a versatile choice for an array of content types—from sentimental memory compilations to quirky, narrative-driven videos. The emo-pop vibes offer a resonant backdrop that adds layers of emotional depth to any TikTok video it graces.
13. “Just Pretend” by Bad Omens
This post-hardcore track by Bad Omens is a true chameleon. “Just Pretend” features a unique blend of melodic clean vocals and growling screams, making it perfect for videos that seek to explore contrasting emotions or situations. Its sonic diversity has inspired TikTok creators to use it in videos that range from introspective self-reflection to high-energy action scenes, making it a versatile addition to any TikTok playlist.
14. “BLVCK PILL” by Prompts
On the alternative metal spectrum, “BLVCK PILL” by Prompts has gained some traction on TikTok, especially in subcultures that appreciate a darker, more mysterious vibe. Its grim lyrics and pulsating rhythms have made it a go-to for TikToks focusing on darker aesthetics or deep, existential topics. This isn’t a song for your typical feel-good video; it’s for creators who aren’t afraid to delve into the more obscure corners of the human psyche.
15. “Custer” by Slipknot
Slipknot’s “Custer” is an auditory juggernaut that has powered its way into TikTok’s metal scene. Known for its aggressive instrumentation and raw vocals, this track is often the go-to choice for TikTok content that aims to shock and awe. Whether it’s intense sports clips, headbanging montages, or anything that leans towards the extreme, “Custer” delivers a gut-punch of energy that is both thrilling and invigorating.
16. “Always Somewhere” by Scorpions
This classic rock song by the German band Scorpions has found a second life on TikTok. Known for its soothing melodies and introspective lyrics, “Always Somewhere” often serves as the musical backdrop for travel diaries, sentimental montages, or simply reflective moments caught on camera. It’s a song that’s perfect for those who want to capture the emotion of a moment without resorting to overused pop hits.
17. “King for a Day” by Pierce The Veil
Featuring Kellin Quinn of Sleeping with Sirens, “King for a Day” by Pierce The Veil is a post-hardcore anthem that’s made a sizable impact on TikTok. The song’s energetic riffs and emotionally-charged lyrics make it a popular choice for videos that tackle themes of resistance, empowerment, or personal struggle.
18. “Gaddaar” by Bloodywood
One of the more unique entries on this list, “Gaddaar” by Bloodywood fuses elements of traditional Indian music with metal, creating an extraordinarily eclectic sound. The track has been embraced for its cultural richness and high-energy composition, often appearing in TikToks that celebrate diversity or showcase various forms of art and dance from around the world. It’s a captivating musical journey that begs for repeated listens.
19. “Misery Business” by Paramore
Paramore’s “Misery Business” is a classic pop-punk anthem from the mid-2000s that has aged like fine wine. Known for its infectious hooks and relatable lyrics, this track has become the soundtrack to a variety of TikToks, from nostalgic throwbacks to current-day melodramas. It offers a touch of rebellious spirit to any video it graces, making it a go-to choice for creators looking to add a pop-punk flair to their content.
20. “Prom Queen” by Beach Bunny
While not strictly metal, “Prom Queen” by Beach Bunny has resonated with the rock community on TikTok. Its lo-fi vibes and raw lyrics addressing body image and societal expectations have struck a chord with many users. The song is often featured in videos that deal with self-acceptance, empowerment, or emotional vulnerability, providing a poignant soundtrack to some of TikTok’s more heartfelt moments.
Final Thoughts
From classic rock melodies to genre-defying global fusion, TikTok’s rock and metal scene offers a rich tapestry of musical options that are both timeless and contemporary. So the next time you open the app, why not let your inner rocker roam free and explore these compelling tracks?
