If you’ve scrolled TikTok recently, you’ve probably noticed Kelly Clarkson’s 2004 anthem Breakaway making a comeback – but not for the reason you’d expect.
Instead of people belting the iconic chorus about chasing dreams and spreading wings, the bit that’s blowing up is the rhythmic “da-da-da-da-da” section from the start. Yep, that’s the part everyone’s obsessed with.
Some TikTokers hear it as a cheeky “shoot, shoot, shoot” moment, turning it into an excuse for protective, over-the-top scenarios (think: “me if anyone insults my best friend” paired with finger guns). Others are using it more for its nostalgic vibe – using it to share lightbulb moments, personal growth confessions, or painfully relatable truths. Thanks, Kelly.
The timing couldn’t be better. Breakaway actually turned 20 last year, and Clarkson herself has spoken about how the song helped her move on from her American Idol beginnings and carve out her place as actual pop royalty. And if you didn’t know, Avril Lavigne originally wrote the track before Clarkson took it to soaring new heights.
So why is Gen Z suddenly obsessed? At its core, Breakaway is about transformation, moving on, and finding yourself – themes that fit TikTok’s endless cycle of self-discovery and reinvention perfectly. The fact that it also has a beat drop you can simultaneously cry and dance to makes it even better.
@selma.__.yusuf cheerio mandem #fyp #xyzabc #foryou #viralvideos #UK
So, how do you jump on the trend yourself? Start by grabbing the Breakaway audio that’s circulating on TikTok and scroll to the “da-da-da-da-da” section. Once you’ve got it, decide whether you’re going for comedy or nostalgia. If you want it funny, exaggerate reactions to each beat. Finger guns, dramatic stares, or silly props all land well.
@vvictoria72 I hate when people say they are sorry and add a but, please don’t be making excuses #breakaway #kellyclarkson #trend #apology #bro
Whatever your spin, the audio’s flexibility is exactly why it’s gone viral: Clarkson’s Breakaway is suddenly both a comedy sketch and a self-love anthem, depending on how you cut it. Iconic, if you ask me.
For more like this, like The Tab on Facebook.
Featured image credit: TikTok, @6dreezy, @jalen_miller2
