We often hear discussions and jokes on Twitter about how nasty “TikTok music” is. Simply acknowledging these viral hits as “TikTok songs” or an artist as a “TikTok artist” is ignoring the effort the artist puts into making music. We know that TikTok songs can be verbose and annoying at times, but the rise of music on TikTok is positive.
Many of today’s hits come from apps. According to a CNBC report, more than 175 of his songs on Billboard’s Top 100 in 2021 have been trending on his TikTok.
Listeners seem to be streaming these songs as much as they are complaining about them.
The influence of TikTok on trending music has also helped revitalize the careers of artists. Many artists such as Megan Thee Stallion, Don Toliver, Flo Milli, and Lil Nas X gained followers after spreading their songs on TikTok. These artists have since followed more songs on the app and charted on Billboard.
It’s been a pleasure listening to all of these artists and I’m glad they’ve had the opportunity to make a name for themselves through TikTok and other social media platforms. This rapid rise to fame is usually frowned upon, but I think that’s fine as long as the artist works hard to maintain his career and fan base.
Despite the backlash, artists benefit from viral songs. The artist has been nominated for and won a Grammy Award, arguably the highest honor in the music industry. Olivia Rodrigo has won Best New Artist in 2022 after her song “Drivers License” caught the attention of her TikTok users.
There was speculation all over social platforms that she was talking about her ex-boyfriend and his new girlfriend in the song, which led to the trend.
This year, Lizzo and Steve Lacy, among many others who have made their mark on TikTok, have won awards. Lizzo’s hit “About Dumb Time” won Record of the Year and viral Steve Her Lacy’s album “Gemini Lights” featuring her single “Bad Habit” won Best Her Progressive R&B Album .
TikTok has been making a name for itself in the music industry since the app debuted in 2016. Artists old and new are setting records and winning titles from the success they derive from their viral songs on TikTok. As long as TikTok exists, the app will likely continue to play a role in the music industry. Even if TikTok is gone in the future, we can’t ignore the impression it leaves on the music industry.
