Full Breakdown
The Cure's "Boys Don't Cry" Experiences Streaming Resurgence
1/29/2026, 1:31:06 PM
The Resurgence of a Classic Hit
The Cure's 1979 song "Boys Don't Cry" is experiencing a significant revival in popularity, primarily driven by its newfound traction on TikTok. Originally overlooked upon its release, the song has recently gained momentum, with over 107,000 videos featuring it on TikTok, many of which have garnered over one million likes. This resurgence is part of a broader trend where older emotional alt-rock songs are finding new audiences in the 2020s.
Streaming Growth and Milestones
In mid-October 2022, "Boys Don't Cry" was receiving under one million weekly streams. However, by the week ending January 23, 2023, that number had surged to over 3.1 million weekly streams, marking a tripling of its popularity. The song has also crossed a significant milestone by surpassing one billion streams on Spotify, making it The Cure's first entry into the "Billions Club." This resurgence coincides with the announcement of a 40th-anniversary vinyl reissue of the song's 1986 re-recording, which peaked at No. 22 on the U.K. Official Charts.
Official Statements & Responses
The Cure's management has expressed optimism about the song's current trajectory, noting its potential to reach the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time. The band's legacy, which includes 14 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, has been revitalized by this unexpected streaming success.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the positive reception, some critics argue that the resurgence of older songs like "Boys Don't Cry" highlights a lack of innovation in contemporary music. They contend that the reliance on nostalgia may overshadow the development of new artists and original compositions.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the streaming numbers for "Boys Don't Cry" have been consistently reported, there is a lack of detailed information regarding the demographics of the new listeners. Additionally, it remains unclear whether the song will achieve a higher chart position than its re-recorded version in the U.K. or if it will finally make an appearance on the Billboard Hot 100.
What's Next for The Cure?
As "Boys Don't Cry" continues to gain traction, industry observers are closely watching its performance on streaming platforms and charts. The upcoming vinyl reissue and the song's viral status on social media could lead to further milestones for The Cure, potentially solidifying its place in the contemporary music landscape.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Boys Don’t Cry.” has caught fire on TikTok, with younger listeners gravitating to its chiming hooks and fragile masculinity. — Billboard Staff
- “’s top 40, can match the re-recording’s peak in the band’s home country, or get onto the Hot 100 for the first time.” — Andrew Unterberger, Billboard
