Nostalgia Never Dies: Why 90s–2000s Songs Remain Popular in the TikTok Era

Backstreet Boys – still icons from the 90s to today.

Introduction: Nostalgia Meets TikTok Trends

Music from the 1990s and early 2000s has a certain allure.  Songs from this time period influenced pop culture decades later and formed a whole generation.  It's amazing, though, how these songs, which were formerly played on Walkmans, cassette players, and MTVs, are now trending on TikTok, the most popular short-video platform worldwide. Songs by Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls, Tupac, Blink-182, and Avril Lavigne have been given new life through viral challenges, sentimental edits, and inventive remixes, demonstrating that nostalgia never really goes away.  Rather, it changes as the times do.

This article will examine ten classic songs from the 1990s to 2000s that have remained popular due to TikTok virality, examine why they appeal to new listeners, and examine how nostalgia influences contemporary music consumption.

1. Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (1999)

One of the most well-known pop songs ever recorded is this boyband anthem.  Through humorous edits, lip-sync contests, and "then vs. now" nostalgia trends, it made a comeback on TikTok.

2. Spice Girls – Wannabe (1996)

A favorite on TikTok for friendship content, glow-up videos, and humorous parodies of 90s pop fashion is the quintessential "girl power" hymn.  Its memorable remark, "If you wanna be my lover…," will never be forgotten.

3. TLC – No Scrubs (1999)

Thanks to videos about toxic relationships and empowerment memes, this R&B classic made a comeback on TikTok.  For Gen Z users writing about warning signs in dating, the message is still pertinent.

4. Tupac – Changes (1998)

Beyond just being entertaining, TikTok edits on social issues, motivation, and life challenges frequently feature this socially aware hip-hop song.  Its inequitable lyrics are still very relevant today.

5. The Notorious B.I.G. – Juicy (1994)

This song is the standard background for glow-up edits, success stories, and "before vs. after" transformation videos on TikTok.  Biggie's fluid storytelling fits in well with the platform's current tendencies.

6. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg – Nuthin’ But a “G” Thang (1992)

TikTok helped West Coast hip-hop regain its aesthetic appeal.  The song frequently appears in videos featuring automotive culture, nostalgic street style, and old filter edits.

7. Blink-182 – All The Small Things (1999)

Pop-punk nostalgia is still very much in vogue.  TikTok users frequently use this song in witty "emo kid" edits, comedy skits, and Y2K fashion throwbacks.

8. Simple Plan – Perfect (2002)

TikTok users' videos of genuine confessions, generational pain, or family hardships have featured this poignant melody, which has gone viral.  It is still regarded as one of the most poignant pop-punk tunes ever composed.

9. Avril Lavigne – Complicated (2002)

The craze for early 2000s emo aesthetics on TikTok led to a resurgence of Avril's debut track.  It's the ideal nostalgic background track for eyeliner tutorials and "pop-punk vs. now" comparisons.

10. Destiny’s Child – Say My Name (1999)

Due to meme edits, glow-up transitions, and TikTok dancing challenges, this R&B classic is now again popular.  Its eternal appeal is guaranteed by Beyoncé's vocals.

Why Do These Songs Remain Popular?

These songs remain popular today for several reasons. First, there is the nostalgia effect, where older generations relive their youth through familiar melodies, while younger audiences get the chance to discover “classic” music for the very first time. Second, TikTok’s algorithm plays a huge role, as the platform’s For You Page (FYP) thrives on catchy hooks, helping old hits resurface and gain new relevance. Third, the rise of memes and challenges makes these tracks perfect for lip-sync trends, glow-up edits, and storytelling content, which keeps them circulating widely. Finally, their timeless quality ensures longevity, because a great melody combined with relatable lyrics simply never goes out of style.

Conclusion: Nostalgia as a Cultural Bridge

The 1990s and 2000s produced music that continues to inspire, comfort, and entertain millions. Thanks to TikTok, these songs are more alive than ever, connecting multiple generations through nostalgia. But nostalgia isn’t just about looking back—it’s about reimagining old classics in new ways, making them relevant for today’s digital culture.

Let’s Talk 🎵

- Which 90s–2000s song do you still listen to on repeat?

- Have you ever discovered an old hit for the first time because of TikTok?

- Do you think today’s pop songs will have the same longevity in 20 years?

Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

By: Daeviera Fatimahuz Zahra / 825230171

References

Spotify & YouTube official artist pages (Backstreet Boys, Tupac, Avril Lavigne, etc.)

Billboard: "Why 90s Music is Viral Again on TikTok"

Rolling Stone archives on 90s & 2000s hits