2026 IS THE NEW 2016: THE PHENOMENON TAKING OVER SOCIAL MEDIA

Although 2026 has only just begun, the internet is already looking 10 years back. A wave of 2016-inspired content is going viral across social media platforms, with users revisiting the trends, challenges, memes and songs that defined the era. Celebrities and influencers have also embraced the throwback trend, with Selena Gomez, Charlie Puth and even Kylie Jenner among those sharing nostalgic content.

For many, 2016 represents a simpler, more authentic time that encouraged greater self-expression. Revisiting the fashion, music and aesthetics of that era allows users to temporarily escape the real world, transporting them to a more carefree time and offering a sense of comfort. Creators who lean into nostalgia can emotionally connect with audiences by creating more relatable content.

 

The Sound of 2016

Music has played a major role in the revival of 2016. Spotify has reported that since January 1st 2026, user-generated 2016 themed playlists have increased more than 790%.

2016 was a defining year for pop, dance, hip hop and R&B, with hits from artists such as Rihanna, Frank Ocean, Drake and Justin Bieber dominating global charts. Industry-changing music emerged during this time, including the release of Beyonce's critically-acclaimed album 'Lemonade', which blended music genres and redefined pop culture through its exploration of personal and sociopolitical themes.

Tracks from this era have a distinctive sound, now closely associated with feelings of nostalgia. They transport listeners to a more carefree time and offer a sense of comfort and familiarity. Songs by various artists such as Zara Larsson, Fetty Wap, AJ Tracey, and Major Lazar are once again trending on social media platforms. Tapping into these trending tracks in your social content can help build relatability and increase engagement on your posts.

 

Creating Content Inspired By The 2016 Era

Social media feeds in 2016 were defined by low-resolution imagery, oversaturated colours, retro styles and instantly recognisable upbeat tracks. Instagram photos were less polished, Snapchat filters were everywhere, and creative content that offered a raw glimpse into everyday moments often outweighed overly refined content.

This is very different to what we see on social media platforms today, with ads and campaigns taking over feeds and influencer-led content. The authenticity that was prevalent in the past has been lost amongst overly produced and perfected content today, a shift that could explain why users are eager to recapture the energy of 2016.

Creating more genuine and unfiltered content is likely to appeal more to audiences during this time, when users are craving the chaotic energy and authenticity of a time that passed long ago.

 

Nostalgia on TikTok and Instagram

On TikTok, creators are embracing throwback audios and reviving viral challenges from the era. Content often features captions inspired by 2016 aesthetics, along with the use of iconic tracks, such as 'Nasty Freestyle' by T-Wayne, 'Lean On' by Major Lazar and 'Black Beatles' by Rae Sremmurd, to trigger nostalgia. Among the trends making a comeback to social feeds is the Mannequin Challenge, a defining viral moment from 2016 where large groups of people freeze mid-action while being filmed.

2016-inspired content has also become increasingly popular on Instagram, giving feeds a more nostalgic feel. Content often includes recreating old photos, highlighting old-fashioned trends, before-and-after transformation posts and recreations of viral moments. This style of content encourages engagement by tapping into shared experiences and leveraging familiarity to connect with audiences.

 

What Does This Mean For Creators?

The resurgence of 2016 shows that audiences are craving authenticity, simplicity and emotional connection. Creators who lean into the theme of nostalgia, through visuals and sound, can create content that resonates more deeply with audiences and can help them stand out in an increasingly crowded digital space.

Whether you’re creating relatable nostalgic content for your audience or taking inspiration from past trends, the right audio can bring your content to life. Explore Universal Music for Creators for direct access to 50,000+ claims-free tracks and 200,000+ sound FX across various genres. Explore the full library now.

Check out the curated selection of 2016-inspired tracks below, carefully curated by our expert music supervisors: