Page 35 - Poze Magazine Volume 81

From TikTok to Billboard: How

Social Media is Creating Music

Stars

Dance Challenges & Trends From the "Renegade"
dance (which catapulted K CAMP’s Lottery to fame)
to Megan Thee Stallion’s Savage challenge,
danceable beats and easy-to-learn choreography
make a song instantly shareable.

Relatable or Emotional Lyrics songs that express
universal emotions—heartbreak, empowerment,

nostalgia—tend to resonate. Olivia Rodrigo’s drivers
license became an emotional outlet for TikTok users,
with thousands sharing their own heartbreak stories
alongside the song.

Meme Potential sometimes, a song’s virality isn’t
about its musicality but how it can be used
humorously. Tracks like "Oh No" by Kreepa and "Into
the Thick of It" from The Backyardigans took off
because they became meme soundtracks.

Influencer & Fan Engagement when big TikTok
creators use a song, their millions of followers follow
suit. Record labels now actively recruit influencers
to use certain tracks, hoping to spark viral trends.

Social Media’s Role in Shaping Music Careers for artists, social media is no longer just a
promotional tool—it’s a career launchpad. Musicians are now leveraging platforms like TikTok
and Instagram not only to promote new songs but also to engage directly with fans.Take
JVKE, who went from making viral music mashups to scoring a global hit with Golden Hour,

or Tai Verdes, who worked at a Verizon store before his song Stuck in the Middle took off on
TikTok. These success stories prove that an artist doesn’t need a record deal to gain
traction—just a good song, an engaging personality, and a little algorithmic luck.Record
labels have also taken notice. Industry executives now scout TikTok for emerging talent,
signing artists based on viral success rather than traditional demo submissions. Some labels
even ask artists to create TikTok-friendly songs before signing them, prioritizing viral
potential over artistic direction.