
Courtesy Universal Music Group & Interludio
Nearly a decade after its initial release, Billie Eilish’s breakout track, “ocean eyes,” is back in the global spotlight, proving that true artistry never fades. The ethereal, intimate song that first catapulted the young Los Ángeles native to stardom in 2016 is now a viral TikTok trend, captivating a brand-new wave of listeners and cementing its status as a defining anthem for Gen Z. This isn’t just a nostalgic moment; it’s a testament to the song’s enduring power and the revolutionary voice of one of pop music’s biggest stars.
From SoundCloud to Superstardom: The Song’s Origin
The origin story of “ocean eyes” is a perfect example of music fate. Co-written with her brother and principal collaborator, Finneas O’Connell, the song was actually first intended for his band, The Slightlys. However, Finneas adapted it for Billie’s unique vocal style. After being uploaded to her SoundCloud profile, the track quickly generated massive buzz, which then scaled to YouTube and digital platforms worldwide. This grassroots success immediately established Eilish as an influential figure, capable of shifting the entire industry’s direction.
The Resurgence: Stats and Global Impact
The current resurgence highlights the song’s timeless quality. Its beautiful vocal intimacy and innovative sound are resonating deeply with the latest users of the digital age. The impact is staggering: “ocean eyes” has seen its global plays on Spotify surge by a significant 26% in just the last week. Furthermore, the song’s creative influence is measurable worldwide, with countries like Mexico ranking fifth globally in user-generated content created from the original audio. For an artist who has already amassed nine Grammy Awards and 32 nominations by the age of 23, this renewed excitement underscores the sheer, creative force that is Billie Eilish.

Why You Need to Listen
“Ocean eyes” was Billie Eilish’s introduction to the world. It’s a powerful reminder of the artistic greatness contained in her voice—a voice that perfectly channels the feelings of an entire generation. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering it through a viral dance, the message is clear: the song that started it all is currently dominating the charts, and it’s a must-listen. Listen to “Ocean Eyes” and understand why this 2016 song is still shaping Contemporary Pop today.