In recent years, TikTok has emerged as a place, radically transforming the music industry. With over a billion active users on the platform, the app has reshaped how songs receive attention and popularity. As several new artists have been discovered thanks to TikTok, the music industry will never be the same.
One of TikTok’s most significant impacts on the music industry is its ability to turn atypical songs into global hits. Examples of this include “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X, “abcefu” by GAYLE, and “Paint the Town Red” by Doja Cat, all hits that have dominated global charts.
Many songs become popular on TikTok by creators on the app making dances to them, comedic skits or even just wholesome lip-syncing videos, all strategies to start massive trends.
The virality of songs on the app then moves its way onto Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube, turning the TikTok music attraction into all-around success.
Artists and record labels actively promote their new releases on TikTok, sometimes even accommodating the app’s algorithm to gain more attention by marketing short, catchy and memeable snippets of their music.
Numerous people have found their favorite songs, artists and albums through the app, with Junior Tiffany Meshkani said, “I have listened to ‘Show Me Love’ by WizTheMc every single day. It’s actually my favorite song and without TikTok, I am 99 percent sure I would have no idea what it is.”
The TikTok music phenomenon has benefited artists significantly, as they no longer need a label or large team to reach fame. Just promoting music on the app can launch a successful career.
This shift has made the industry more accessible, but unpredictable as well. The success can be sudden and quick-leading to many one-hit wonders.
Junior Yarden Robinsky agreed that “a lot of people have become famous from TikTok, but also people like Tyla have had one popular song on the app and then never really made a hit again.”
This is why artists must adapt to maintain the audience’s attention on the app, capitalizing on their moment to shine.
TikTok is undeniably reshaping the music industry. While not everyone releasing music on the platform will become an A-list celebrity, TikTok has provided an easier, creative way for those in the industry to fulfill their musical passions.
