Social media has fundamentally transformed how artists achieve success in the music industry. The top 30 artists who blew up on social media represent a new generation of musicians who leveraged platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to bypass traditional gatekeepers and connect directly with millions of fans. These social trending artists have redefined what it means to “make it” in music, proving that viral moments can translate into sustained careers and chart-topping success. From bedroom producers to street performers, these artists discovered that authentic content and strategic social media presence could launch them from obscurity to global stardom practically overnight.
The power of social media to create music superstars has never been more evident. Platforms like TikTok have become the modern-day equivalent of radio play, with viral challenges and trending sounds introducing new artists to audiences in the millions. What makes these social trending success stories particularly fascinating is their diversity—spanning every genre from pop and hip-hop to indie rock and electronic music. These artists didn’t just go viral; they built sustainable careers by consistently engaging their audiences and transforming fleeting attention into loyal fanbases.
Understanding which artists blew up on social media provides valuable insights into the current music landscape. These musicians mastered the art of creating shareable content, whether through behind-the-scenes studio sessions, personality-driven posts, or songs specifically designed to soundtrack viral moments. Their stories illustrate how authenticity, timing, and understanding platform algorithms can be just as important as musical talent in today’s digital-first music industry. If you’re looking to upgrade your listening experience while following these trending artists, check out the latest options when you compare headphones to find the perfect gear for discovering new music.
Olivia Rodrigo – drivers license
Olivia Rodrigo’s meteoric rise began with “drivers license,” a heart-wrenching ballad that shattered streaming records and dominated social media conversations in early 2021. The former Disney Channel star transformed into a global music phenomenon as TikTok users created millions of videos featuring the emotionally raw track, with many sharing their own heartbreak stories set to the song’s climactic bridge. The song’s success was amplified by social media speculation about the lyrics’ subject matter, creating a narrative that kept fans engaged and sharing theories across multiple platforms. “Drivers license” debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and broke Spotify’s record for most streams in a single day, accumulating over 1.5 billion streams within months of its release.
The production, helmed by Dan Nigro, perfectly captured teenage angst with its building instrumentation and Rodrigo’s vulnerable vocal delivery. Social media content creators particularly gravitated toward the song’s dramatic shifts in dynamics, using the quieter verses for introspective content and the explosive chorus for emotional reveals. Rodrigo’s authentic engagement with fans on Instagram and TikTok, where she shared her own genuine reactions to the song’s success, further cemented her connection with audiences. The success of “drivers license” demonstrated how social media could turn a debut single into a cultural phenomenon, with the song becoming the soundtrack to countless coming-of-age moments captured and shared online.
Lil Nas X – Old Town Road
Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” stands as perhaps the definitive example of social media-driven success, with the country-trap hybrid becoming a viral sensation on TikTok before dominating the charts for a record-breaking 19 weeks. The Atlanta-based artist initially spent just $30 promoting the song, but savvy social media marketing and the #YeeHaw challenge on TikTok propelled it to unprecedented heights. The song’s controversy regarding its classification as country music only fueled more social media discussion, with debates trending across Twitter and generating millions of engagements. Lil Nas X’s personality-driven social media presence, featuring memes, clever responses, and authentic interactions, transformed him from anonymous internet user to household name.
The Billy Ray Cyrus remix further amplified the song’s reach, bridging generational divides and creating additional viral moments as fans compared the two versions across social platforms. “Old Town Road” accumulated over 2 billion streams on Spotify and became a cultural touchstone, with everyone from celebrities to politicians posting videos featuring the song. Lil Nas X’s genius lay not just in creating a catchy song, but in understanding how to maintain momentum through consistent social media content and strategic collaborations. His coming-out announcement on Twitter during Pride Month while the song was still topping charts demonstrated how he used social media not just for promotion but for authentic self-expression, further deepening his connection with fans.
Gayle – abcdefu
Gayle’s explosive breakthrough with “abcdefu” showcased how TikTok could transform an independent artist into a mainstream star virtually overnight. The pop-rock breakup anthem resonated with millions of users who appreciated its unapologetic attitude and highly quotable lyrics, spawning countless lip-sync videos and breakup story compilations. The song’s success on TikTok preceded its official release to other platforms, demonstrating how social media virality now often dictates release strategies. “Abcdefu” climbed to the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieved multi-platinum status across numerous countries, all driven primarily by organic social media engagement rather than traditional radio play.
The Texas-born singer-songwriter leveraged her relatable personality on Instagram and TikTok to build a dedicated fanbase that felt personally invested in her success. Her acoustic performances and stripped-down content on social media highlighted her genuine talent beyond the polished studio production, addressing skeptics who questioned whether social media artists possessed real musical ability. The song’s clean and explicit versions both went viral separately, with different demographics gravitating toward each variation and creating their own distinct trends. Gayle’s success demonstrated that authenticity and relatability could be just as valuable as massive marketing budgets, with her direct engagement with fans creating a sense of community that traditional promotion couldn’t replicate.
Glass Animals – Heat Waves
“Heat Waves” by Glass Animals represents one of the most fascinating slow-burn social media success stories, taking over a year to reach its peak after initially modest performance. The British indie band’s psychedelic-pop track found new life on TikTok in late 2020, where users began creating nostalgic and emotional content set to its dreamy production and frontman Dave Bayley’s distinctive vocals. The song’s ascent was gradual but relentless, eventually reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 more than a year after its release—an increasingly common trajectory for songs that gain traction through social media rather than traditional promotion. The track accumulated billions of streams and became the soundtrack to millions of videos featuring everything from sunset drives to relationship confessions.
What made “Heat Waves” particularly successful on social media was its versatility, working equally well for uplifting content and melancholic reflections. Glass Animals actively engaged with fans creating content around the song, often sharing and commenting on creative TikTok videos, which encouraged even more user-generated content. The band’s use of Instagram Stories to provide behind-the-scenes glimpses into their creative process and tour life helped humanize them and build deeper connections with their growing audience. The song’s success also highlighted how social media could breathe new life into catalog tracks, with “Heat Waves” initially released in 2020 but peaking in 2022 after sustained viral momentum. For music producers and serious listeners wanting to catch every nuance of productions like this, compare earbuds offers excellent options for detailed listening.
Steve Lacy – Bad Habit
Steve Lacy’s “Bad Habit” demonstrated how an artist could leverage alternative R&B sounds and social media authenticity to achieve mainstream breakthrough success. The former Internet band member’s solo track went viral on TikTok, where users particularly gravitated toward the guitar riff and Lacy’s smooth falsetto vocals, creating content ranging from fashion showcases to romantic scenarios. The song’s success was amplified by Lacy’s own engaging social media presence, where he shared his unique perspective on music creation, often recording ideas on his iPhone and discussing his lo-fi production techniques. “Bad Habit” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Lacy Grammy nominations, solidifying his transition from band member to solo superstar.
The track’s production stood out in an era dominated by heavily processed pop, with its warm, analog-inspired sound and live instrumentation appealing to listeners fatigued by digital perfectionism. Social media users appreciated the song’s nostalgic quality while still feeling contemporary, making it perfect for content that balanced retro aesthetics with modern sensibilities. Lacy’s fashion-forward image and association with brands like Calvin Klein created additional viral moments, with his Met Gala appearances and street style generating millions of engagements across Instagram and Twitter. The success of “Bad Habit” proved that artistic integrity and commercial success weren’t mutually exclusive, with Lacy maintaining his experimental edge while achieving pop stardom through genuine connection with fans on social platforms.
Doja Cat – Say So
Doja Cat’s “Say So” became a cultural phenomenon largely due to its viral dance challenge on TikTok, choreographed by user Haley Sharpe, which was performed by millions of users including numerous celebrities. The disco-inspired pop track perfectly captured the mood of early pandemic lockdowns, offering an escapist, danceable anthem that encouraged creative expression from home. The song’s retro production by Dr. Luke channeled 1970s funk and disco, creating an instantly recognizable sound that translated perfectly to short-form video content. “Say So” became Doja Cat’s first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, particularly after the release of a Nicki Minaj remix that generated additional social media buzz and streaming spikes.
Doja Cat’s mastery of social media extends beyond individual hits, with her consistent presence on multiple platforms building a personality-driven brand that keeps fans engaged between releases. Her willingness to engage directly with fans, share memes, and even participate in trends herself created a sense of accessibility that traditional pop stars rarely achieved. The success of “Say So” demonstrated how choreography could drive song success in the TikTok era, with the dance becoming as iconic as the song itself and appearing at virtual gatherings, Zoom parties, and eventually post-pandemic celebrations. The track’s music video, with its 1970s aesthetic and playful choreography, generated millions of additional views as users recreated their favorite moments, showing how visual content amplifies audio virality.
Tones and I – Dance Monkey
Australian singer-songwriter Tones and I achieved unprecedented international success with “Dance Monkey,” a track that demonstrated how distinctive vocals and an infectious melody could transcend borders through social media sharing. The former street performer’s breakout hit featured her unique, high-pitched vocal delivery that divided listeners but proved impossible to ignore, spawning debates across social platforms that only increased the song’s visibility. “Dance Monkey” topped charts in over 30 countries and became one of the most-streamed songs in Spotify history, accumulating billions of plays largely through playlist placements and social media discovery. The track’s success on platforms like TikTok came from its energetic production and memorable chorus, which users employed for everything from dance challenges to comedic skits.
Tones and I’s authentic backstory as a busker who quit her job to pursue music resonated deeply with social media audiences seeking genuine success stories. Her active engagement on Instagram, where she shared her journey from street corners to sold-out venues, inspired aspiring musicians and created a devoted fanbase that felt personally invested in her success. The song’s somewhat divisive nature actually worked in its favor on social media, where discussion and debate generate engagement and algorithmic promotion. “Dance Monkey” proved that unconventional artistic choices could become assets in the social media age, where standing out matters more than fitting in, and controversy can be converted into curiosity and ultimately into streams.
24kGoldn – Mood (feat. iann dior)
“Mood” by 24kGoldn featuring iann dior became the soundtrack to pandemic-era TikTok, perfectly capturing the anxious yet carefree spirit of young people navigating unprecedented circumstances. The genre-blending track combined pop-punk influences with hip-hop production, creating a sound that appealed across demographic boundaries and proved incredibly versatile for social media content. The song’s success was driven largely by its use in lifestyle content, with users featuring “Mood” in videos showcasing fashion, skating, and casual hang-outs with friends. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and accumulated multi-billion streaming numbers, with both artists seeing their social media followings explode alongside the song’s commercial performance.
24kGoldn’s strategic use of TikTok to build anticipation before the song’s official release demonstrated sophisticated understanding of platform dynamics, with snippets and behind-the-scenes content priming audiences for the full track. The collaboration with iann dior, himself a social media-savvy artist, doubled the song’s reach as both artists’ fanbases promoted the track across their networks. The song’s relatively short runtime made it perfect for TikTok’s format, with the entire track fitting within extended video limits and the chorus arriving quickly enough to capture short attention spans. “Mood” exemplified how social media success increasingly required understanding not just music creation but content strategy, with the song engineered—consciously or not—for virality.
Masked Wolf – Astronaut In The Ocean
Australian rapper Masked Wolf’s “Astronaut In The Ocean” showed how persistence and the right algorithm-driven moment could transform a previously released track into a global phenomenon. Originally released in 2019, the song found new life on TikTok in 2021, where its distinctive beat drop and memorable hook made it perfect for transition videos and workout content. The track’s hard-hitting production and motivational lyrics resonated with fitness enthusiasts and content creators looking for high-energy background music, spawning millions of videos across multiple social platforms. “Astronaut In The Ocean” eventually reached the top 10 in numerous countries and earned platinum certifications globally, all years after its initial release—a testament to social media’s power to resurrect older tracks.
Masked Wolf’s relative anonymity before the song’s viral moment added to its appeal, with social media users feeling like they’d discovered hidden treasure rather than being marketed to by an established artist. His authentic reactions to the song’s delayed success, shared across Instagram and TikTok, endeared him to fans and generated additional viral content. The song’s success demonstrated that timing could be as important as talent, with the right combination of platform trends, algorithm promotion, and user adoption creating success that eluded traditional marketing efforts. “Astronaut In The Ocean” became particularly popular in gym and fitness communities on social media, with its aggressive production inspiring countless workout montages and transformation videos.
Lil Tecca – Ransom
Lil Tecca’s “Ransom” represented the emergence of teenage rappers leveraging SoundCloud and social media to achieve mainstream success without traditional industry backing. The Queens-born rapper was just 16 when the track went viral, with its melodic flow and polished production belying his young age and relative inexperience. The song’s rise on platforms like Instagram and TikTok preceded its eventual chart success, demonstrating how streaming services and social platforms had become the new pathways to discovery for young hip-hop artists. “Ransom” peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned multi-platinum certification, launching Lil Tecca’s career and inspiring countless young artists to pursue similar independent-to-mainstream trajectories.
The track’s production by Nick Mira and Taz Taylor featured the kind of melodic, atmospheric beat that dominated social media during the late 2010s, with its ethereal quality making it versatile for various types of content. Lil Tecca’s youth actually became an asset on social media, where teenage users saw him as one of their own achieving dreams they related to, creating aspirational content around his success story. His clever wordplay and confident delivery, despite his age, earned respect from hip-hop purists while his melodic approach attracted pop audiences—a combination that proved perfect for social media’s genre-agnostic listening habits. The success of “Ransom” highlighted how age was becoming less relevant in the social media era, with talent and virality mattering more than industry-preferred artist development timelines. If you’re exploring music with younger family members who might be inspired by these success stories, kids instrument quiz can help them discover their own musical interests.
Surfaces – Sunday Best
Duo Surfaces achieved breakout success with “Sunday Best,” a feel-good track that became ubiquitous on Instagram and TikTok during 2019 and 2020. The song’s upbeat production, featuring prominent acoustic guitar and whistling, created an instantly recognizable sound that users employed for positive, uplifting content ranging from morning routines to travel videos. The Texas-based duo’s DIY approach to music production and marketing resonated with social media audiences seeking authentic success stories, with their journey from college students making music in a bedroom to chart-topping artists inspiring millions. “Sunday Best” achieved multi-platinum status and introduced Surfaces to mainstream audiences who might never have discovered them through traditional radio or music television.
The song’s optimistic lyrics and sunny disposition made it particularly popular during challenging times, with users seeking uplifting content to counterbalance negative news cycles dominating other platforms. Surfaces actively engaged with fans creating content featuring their music, often reposting and celebrating creative uses of their songs, which encouraged even more user-generated content in a virtuous cycle of promotion. The duo’s visual aesthetic, featuring bright colors and beach-inspired imagery, translated perfectly to Instagram’s visual-first platform, creating a cohesive brand that extended beyond just audio content. “Sunday Best” demonstrated that independent artists with limited budgets could compete with major-label acts by understanding platform dynamics and creating content that aligned with what users wanted to share.
Arizona Zervas – Roxanne
Arizona Zervas’s “Roxanne” became a social media phenomenon that caught even industry insiders by surprise with its rapid ascent from independent release to mainstream hit. The Maryland rapper’s track went viral on TikTok, where users particularly gravitated toward its catchy chorus and braggadocious lyrics, creating content that showcased luxury lifestyles and aspirational living. The song’s relatively simple production put the focus on Zervas’s flow and hook, which proved memorable enough to inspire millions of lip-sync videos and lifestyle content pieces. “Roxanne” reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 entirely through social media momentum and streaming, with minimal traditional radio support—a increasingly common but still notable achievement.
The track’s success led to a major-label deal, demonstrating how social media virality could accelerate traditional industry pathways for artists who might otherwise spend years trying to get noticed. Zervas’s authentic reactions to his unexpected success, shared across social platforms, generated additional engagement as fans enjoyed watching his life transform in real-time. The song’s appeal crossed demographic boundaries, with both younger TikTok users and older Instagram audiences finding ways to incorporate it into their content. “Roxanne” illustrated that in the social media age, a single viral moment could be worth more than years of traditional artist development, though maintaining momentum after that initial surge remained the greater challenge.
Jawsh 685 and Jason Derulo – Savage Love
“Savage Love” represented a fascinating case study in social media-driven collaboration, with New Zealand producer Jawsh 685’s instrumental “Laxed (Siren Beat)” going viral before Jason Derulo added lyrics for the official release. The track’s distinctive Pacific Islander-influenced beat became soundtrack to countless TikTok videos before vocals were even added, demonstrating how production alone could achieve virality on social platforms. The collaboration between the teenage producer and established pop star illustrated how social media had democratized the music industry, allowing unknown artists to partner with celebrities based purely on viral momentum. “Savage Love” topped charts globally and introduced Jawsh 685 to mainstream audiences while giving Derulo one of his biggest hits in years.
The song’s success on TikTok was driven partly by its dance-friendly rhythm and partly by the platform’s algorithm promoting the distinctive siren-like sound that made it immediately recognizable. Jason Derulo’s savvy use of TikTok to promote his music, already well-established by this collaboration, ensured maximum visibility for the track across multiple creator communities. Initial controversies about proper credit and compensation for Jawsh 685 created additional social media discussion, raising awareness about the importance of fairly compensating viral content creators. The resolution of these issues and the positive outcome for the young producer became an inspirational story that generated its own wave of social media content, further promoting the song and cementing its place in TikTok history.
Powfu – death bed (coffee for your head)
Canadian artist Powfu’s “death bed” became an emotional touchstone for social media users seeking to express melancholic feelings through their content. Featuring vocals from Beabadoobee, the lo-fi hip-hop track went viral on TikTok where users created deeply personal videos dealing with themes of loss, unrequited love, and mortality—heavy topics that traditional music marketing rarely addressed so directly. The song’s deliberately lo-fi production quality, far from being a limitation, actually enhanced its authenticity and made it more relatable to bedroom producers and independent artists on social platforms. “Death bed” achieved multi-platinum status and charted globally despite initially being released independently, with social media discovery completely bypassing traditional gatekeepers.
The track’s vulnerable lyrics resonated particularly strongly with younger audiences navigating complex emotions and seeking music that validated their experiences. Powfu’s relatively quiet social media presence, compared to more attention-seeking viral artists, actually worked in his favor by reinforcing the song’s authentic, introspective nature. The inclusion of Beabadoobee’s sample, taken from her own earlier work, created an interesting cross-pollination of fanbases and introduced both artists to new audiences. “Death bed” demonstrated that social media success didn’t require upbeat, danceable content—thoughtful, emotional music could be equally viral if it addressed universal human experiences that users wanted to express through their own content.
Ritt Momney – Put Your Records On
Ritt Momney’s cover of Corinne Bailey Rae’s “Put Your Records On” exemplified how social media could transform classic songs through fresh interpretations that resonated with new generations. The indie-pop reimagining went viral on TikTok, where its dreamy, slowed-down production created the perfect soundtrack for nostalgic content and aesthetic videos. The Utah-based artist’s version introduced the 2006 original to Gen Z audiences who embraced it as if it were a new song, creating an interesting generational crossover that benefited both the original artist and the new interpreter. The cover achieved hundreds of millions of streams and charted internationally, all driven by organic social media discovery rather than label promotion.
Ritt Momney’s success with the cover demonstrated how understanding current production trends and platform preferences could breathe new life into existing songs. The track’s success on social media platforms preceded its addition to official streaming service playlists, reversing the traditional music industry funnel where editorial playlisting typically drove discovery. The artist’s authentic engagement with fans on Instagram and Twitter, explaining his creative process and expressing genuine surprise at the cover’s success, created a relatable narrative that deepened listener connection. “Put Your Records On” illustrated how cover songs, often dismissed by industry gatekeepers, could be legitimate pathways to building audiences in the social media age where listeners cared more about their emotional response to music than whether it was original.
Tai Verdes – Stuck In The Middle
Tai Verdes’s journey from Verizon salesperson to chart-topping artist, driven entirely by TikTok virality, represents one of social media’s most inspiring success stories. His breakout single “Stuck In The Middle” showcased his gift for crafting immediately catchy melodies and relatable lyrics that translated perfectly to short-form video content. The California artist’s genuine personality and willingness to share his struggles and insecurities on social media created deep connections with audiences who saw their own experiences reflected in his content. The song achieved multi-platinum status and introduced Verdes to mainstream audiences, with its success leading to festival bookings, television appearances, and a major-label deal.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUHl5YKq_Jc&list=RDwUHl5YKq_Jc&start_radio=1
Verdes’s active presence on TikTok, where he regularly posts both music content and personal updates, demonstrated how consistent engagement could transform viral moments into sustained careers. His creative use of the platform to preview new music and gather feedback from fans before official releases showed sophisticated understanding of how social media could inform artistic decisions. “Stuck In The Middle” benefited from its versatile production, working equally well for upbeat content and more introspective videos, maximizing its potential use cases across the platform. The track’s success proved that social media had truly democratized music discovery, with talent and authenticity potentially mattering more than traditional industry connections or expensive marketing campaigns.
Megan Thee Stallion – Savage
Megan Thee Stallion’s “Savage” became a cultural phenomenon through TikTok’s viral dance challenge, which introduced the Houston rapper to mainstream audiences who might never have encountered her through hip-hop channels alone. The track’s confident lyrics and infectious beat created the perfect foundation for choreography that millions of users—from celebrities to everyday people—learned and performed. The song’s success was amplified when Beyoncé appeared on the remix, creating a Houston superstar collaboration that generated massive social media buzz and charitable donations. “Savage” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Megan Thee Stallion Grammy Awards, cementing her transition from rising star to mainstream celebrity.
The dance challenge’s democratic nature, with users of all skill levels participating, exemplified social media’s power to make cultural moments accessible and participatory rather than merely observational. Megan’s active engagement with fans performing the dance, often reposting and celebrating their videos, created a sense of community around the song that deepened its impact. The track’s production by J. White Did It perfectly balanced hard-hitting hip-hop elements with melodic touches that made it accessible to pop audiences discovering Megan through TikTok. “Savage” demonstrated how hip-hop artists could leverage social media platforms to achieve crossover success while maintaining their artistic integrity and connection to their core audiences.
Lyn Lapid – Producer Man
Lyn Lapid’s “Producer Man” showcased how artists could use social media to critique the music industry itself while building careers within it. The Filipino-American singer-songwriter’s track, which addresses toxic dynamics in music production and artist exploitation, resonated with audiences seeking authentic discussions about industry problems. The song went viral on TikTok where users—many aspiring musicians themselves—shared their own experiences with difficult collaborators and industry challenges. “Producer Man” achieved millions of streams and helped establish Lapid as an artist willing to address uncomfortable truths, differentiating her from purely commercial pop acts.
Lapid’s regular presence on social media, where she shares both polished performances and raw vocal recordings, demonstrated her genuine talent beyond viral moments. Her youth—she was still a teenager when “Producer Man” went viral—made the song’s mature subject matter even more impressive and generated additional interest in her perspective. The acoustic-driven production kept focus on Lapid’s vocals and lyrics, with the relatively simple arrangement making it easy for users to create their own covers and interpretations. “Producer Man” illustrated that social media audiences rewarded authenticity and substance, with users elevating content that spoke to real issues rather than just providing escapist entertainment.
PinkPantheress – Break It Off
British artist PinkPantheress emerged as one of social media’s most distinctive voices, blending nostalgic 2000s sounds with contemporary production on tracks like “Break It Off.” Her unique approach to songwriting—deliberately keeping songs under two minutes to match short attention spans—showed sophisticated understanding of social media consumption patterns. The track’s dreamy, garage-influenced production and wistful lyrics created the perfect soundtrack for nostalgic TikTok content, with users employing it for everything from getting-ready videos to late-night reflection posts. PinkPantheress’s mysterious aesthetic, initially revealing little about her personal life, created intrigue that drove social media discussion and discovery.
Her collaboration with established artists and producers, despite her relative newcomer status, demonstrated how social media success could accelerate traditional industry pathways. The lo-fi quality of much of her production, rather than being a weakness, became a signature aesthetic that resonated with audiences fatigued by over-polished pop music. PinkPantheress’s regular interaction with fans on Twitter, where she shared thoughts on music and culture in unfiltered terms, created accessibility that balanced her somewhat mysterious artistic persona. “Break It Off” exemplified how understanding both music history and current platform trends could create something that felt simultaneously nostalgic and fresh—a difficult balance that social media-savvy artists increasingly mastered.
Conan Gray – Heather
Conan Gray’s “Heather” became an anthem for unrequited love on social media, with millions of users sharing their own “Heather” stories—referring to people who were romantic rivals or represented unattainable standards. The Texas-born singer-songwriter’s YouTube origins prepared him perfectly for the social media music landscape, with his natural comfort on camera translating seamlessly across platforms. The song’s vulnerable lyrics and stripped-back production created space for listeners to project their own experiences onto the track, making it feel deeply personal despite its popularity. “Heather” achieved hundreds of millions of streams and introduced Gray to mainstream audiences while solidifying his connection with existing fans who’d followed his journey from YouTube covers to original music.
Gray’s active presence across multiple platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, demonstrated how multi-platform strategies could build comprehensive artist brands rather than relying on single-platform virality. His willingness to discuss his own experiences with heartbreak and identity struggles created deep emotional connections with fans seeking authentic representation in pop music. The term “Heather” itself became social media shorthand, with users employing it in contexts far beyond the song itself—a testament to cultural impact that transcended mere streaming numbers. Gray’s success illustrated that YouTube-to-mainstream pathways remained viable in the TikTok era, particularly for artists who built genuine connections with audiences over time rather than seeking instant viral fame.
Priscilla Block – Just About Over You
Country artist Priscilla Block’s “Just About Over You” demonstrated that social media success wasn’t limited to pop and hip-hop, with authentic country storytelling resonating powerfully on TikTok. The North Carolina singer-songwriter’s relatable lyrics about lingering heartbreak connected with audiences seeking honest emotional content, proving that traditional country music themes could thrive on modern platforms. Block’s journey from posting covers on social media to signing a major label deal and achieving chart success illustrated how country music’s relationship with social media was evolving beyond Nashville’s traditional gatekeeping. “Just About Over You” achieved millions of streams and established Block as part of a new generation of country artists building audiences directly through digital platforms.
Her authentic presentation—often posting videos from her home or car rather than professional studios—resonated with audiences seeking genuine connection over polished perfection. Block’s regular interaction with fans in comments and through duet features created community around her music, with supporters actively promoting her work across their own social networks. The song’s structure, with its talk-singing verses building to a powerful chorus, proved perfectly suited to social media content, particularly videos dealing with relationship recovery and personal growth. “Just About Over You” showed that genre boundaries mattered less on social media than authenticity and emotional resonance, with country artists finding unexpected audiences outside traditional country music demographics.
Salem Ilese – Mad at Disney
Salem Ilese’s “Mad at Disney” captured millennial and Gen Z disillusionment with fairy tale romance narratives, creating the perfect soundtrack for content critiquing unrealistic relationship expectations. The pop singer-songwriter, already successful as a writer for other artists, leveraged TikTok to build her own artist career with this cheeky, self-aware track. The song’s clever critique of Disney’s influence on romantic expectations resonated particularly strongly with young women sharing their dating frustrations on social media. “Mad at Disney” achieved viral status and introduced Ilese to audiences as an artist rather than just a behind-the-scenes songwriter, demonstrating how social media allowed creatives to bypass traditional artist-versus-writer industry divisions.
The track’s production balanced pop catchiness with lyrical substance, creating music that worked for both casual listening and more thoughtful content. Ilese’s background as a songwriter for artists like Sia and Katy Perry gave her sophisticated understanding of pop structure, which she applied to creating songs optimized for social sharing. Her regular posting of songwriting tips and behind-the-scenes creative process content positioned her as both artist and educator, building multi-dimensional connections with audiences. “Mad at Disney” illustrated that social media rewarded clever concepts and cultural commentary, with songs addressing shared cultural experiences achieving virality through users’ desire to signal their own awareness and sophistication.
Trevor Daniel – Falling
Houston artist Trevor Daniel’s “Falling” demonstrated how persistence and platform savvy could eventually translate to mainstream breakthrough. The track initially released in 2018 but found new life through TikTok virality in 2019, showing how songs could gestate on social platforms before achieving commercial success. The emotional ballad’s production, featuring prominent guitar and Daniel’s vulnerable vocals, created the perfect backdrop for relationship content ranging from romantic montages to breakup stories. “Falling” eventually reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned multi-platinum certification, validating social media as a legitimate pathway for urban and alternative R&B artists.
Daniel’s aesthetic approach, featuring melancholic visuals and introspective content on Instagram, created cohesive branding that extended beyond just audio content. The song’s relatively simple production made it accessible for covers and acoustic interpretations, which proliferated across YouTube and TikTok and introduced the original to even wider audiences. “Falling” benefited from its emotional versatility, working equally well for content celebrating relationships and mourning their endings—maximizing potential use cases across social platforms. The track’s success demonstrated that social media discovery often favored songs with strong emotional cores, with listeners gravitating toward music that helped them process and express complex feelings.
Claire Rosinkranz – Backyard Boy
Claire Rosinkranz emerged as one of social media’s youngest success stories with “Backyard Boy,” a bedroom-pop track that showcased her songwriting talent despite her teenage years. The California artist’s lo-fi production aesthetic and genuine lyrics about young romance resonated with audiences seeking authentic representations of teenage experience. The song went viral on TikTok where users employed it for content about crushes, first relationships, and the awkwardness of young love. “Backyard Boy” achieved tens of millions of streams and introduced Rosinkranz as part of a generation of bedroom producers creating professional-quality music from home studios.
Her active engagement on social media, sharing not just music but personal insights and creative process details, built connections with fans who felt they were growing alongside her. The song’s stripped-back production put focus squarely on Rosinkranz’s vocals and songwriting, demonstrating substance beyond just viral hooks. “Backyard Boy” benefited from its specificity—the detailed lyrics about particular moments and feelings making it relatable rather than generic—while still being universal enough for widespread identification. The track illustrated that age was becoming increasingly irrelevant in the social media era, with talent and authenticity mattering more than industry-preferred artist development timelines that previously required years of preparation before debut releases.
Russ – Losin Control
Russ’s “Losin Control” represented the culmination of years of independent hustle and social media audience building finally achieving mainstream recognition. The Atlanta-based rapper-producer-singer had released dozens of songs and built substantial social media following before this track became his breakout hit. The song’s smooth production and melodic approach to hip-hop created perfect soundtrack material for lifestyle content on Instagram and later TikTok. “Losin Control” achieved multi-platinum status and top-10 chart positioning, validating Russ’s independent approach and inspiring countless artists to pursue similar self-sufficient pathways.
Russ’s outspoken social media presence, where he regularly shared industry insights and motivational messages, built reputation as both artist and thought leader within music communities. His willingness to discuss the business side of music—including streaming revenues, touring economics, and ownership—created educational content that resonated with aspiring artists seeking practical guidance. The success of “Losin Control” demonstrated that consistent content creation and audience building could eventually translate to breakthrough moments, with years of groundwork positioning artists to capitalize when the right song connected with mainstream audiences.Russ’s strategy of releasing music frequently and directly to fans through social media and streaming platforms, rather than waiting for traditional label approval, exemplified the new independent artist playbook. His transparency about his journey from releasing hundreds of songs to finally achieving commercial success with “Losin Control” provided aspirational content for emerging artists navigating similar paths. The song’s production showcased Russ’s multi-faceted talents as producer, writer, and performer—a DIY approach that became increasingly common among social media-era artists who controlled every aspect of their creative output. “Losin Control” proved that patience, persistence, and strategic social media presence could overcome traditional industry barriers, with authentic connection to audiences mattering more than major-label marketing budgets.
Joji – Glimpse of Us
Former YouTube personality Joji’s transformation into serious musical artist reached new heights with “Glimpse of Us,” a melancholic ballad that dominated TikTok and streaming platforms. The track’s emotional depth and Joji’s vulnerable vocal delivery created perfect soundtrack material for introspective content, with users sharing personal stories about lost relationships and lingering feelings. The song’s piano-driven production represented a departure from Joji’s earlier electronic-heavy work, demonstrating artistic growth that social media audiences appreciated and celebrated. “Glimpse of Us” achieved billions of streams and topped charts globally, cementing Joji’s status as one of the most successful YouTube-to-music transitions in digital media history.
The song’s success benefited from Joji’s existing massive social media following, built during his comedy content days, which provided built-in audience for his musical evolution. His relatively sparse social media presence as a musician, compared to his previous content creator days, created mystique that audiences found refreshing in an era of constant artist oversharing. “Glimpse of Us” resonated particularly strongly with fans who’d followed Joji’s entire journey, seeing the emotional ballad as vindication for those who believed in his musical potential from the beginning. The track demonstrated that internet fame could translate to legitimate artistic respect when backed by genuine talent and thoughtful creative evolution, with Joji successfully navigating the difficult transition from content creator to respected musician.
Leyla Blue – Butterflies
Emerging artist Leyla Blue represents the newest wave of social media-driven success stories, with “Butterflies” showcasing how TikTok continues to launch unknown artists to prominence. The dreamy pop track went viral through organic user adoption rather than major label promotion, with its production and lyrics creating perfect accompaniment for romantic and aesthetic content. Blue’s rapid rise demonstrated that social media platforms remained viable pathways for new artists even as the music industry became increasingly aware of digital discovery’s importance. “Butterflies” accumulated millions of streams within months of its viral moment, with Blue’s authentic engagement with her growing fanbase creating sustainable momentum beyond initial virality.
Her strategic use of behind-the-scenes content and songwriting process videos on TikTok and Instagram built multidimensional artist brand that extended beyond single viral song. Blue’s willingness to experiment with different sounds and engage with fan feedback demonstrated understanding that social media success required ongoing innovation rather than resting on past achievements. “Butterflies” benefited from its timeless production approach, avoiding overly trendy elements that might date quickly, while still feeling contemporary enough for current platform aesthetics. The track illustrated that despite increasing competition for attention on social platforms, quality songwriting and authentic artistic vision could still break through and find audiences hungry for fresh voices and perspectives.
Em Beihold – Numb Little Bug
Em Beihold’s “Numb Little Bug” became an anthem for mental health awareness on social media, with its honest exploration of depression and anxiety resonating deeply with younger audiences. The Kentucky-based singer-songwriter’s vulnerable lyrics and emotive delivery created space for users to share their own mental health journeys, generating millions of videos discussing topics often considered taboo in mainstream media. The song’s success demonstrated social media’s power to destigmatize mental health discussions, with Beihold’s openness encouraging fans to seek help and support. “Numb Little Bug” achieved multi-platinum status and introduced Beihold to audiences seeking music that validated their emotional experiences rather than just providing escapist entertainment.
The track’s production balanced accessibility with emotional weight, creating music that was both listenable and substantive—a difficult combination that Beihold executed effectively. Her regular interaction with fans in comments, often responding to personal stories with empathy and encouragement, built community around mental health support that extended beyond just music appreciation. “Numb Little Bug” benefited from its specificity in describing anxiety and depression symptoms, making it feel authentic rather than exploitative of serious issues for commercial gain. The song illustrated that social media audiences increasingly valued substance and vulnerability over superficial positivity, with artists willing to address difficult topics finding devoted fanbases who felt genuinely seen and understood through the music.
Clinton Kane – I Guess I’m in Love
Australian-American artist Clinton Kane’s “I Guess I’m in Love” showcased how acoustic-driven pop could achieve viral success through emotional authenticity and relatable lyrics. The singer-songwriter’s track went viral on TikTok where users created content about realizing they’d fallen in love, with the song’s gentle production and Kane’s sincere vocal delivery providing perfect emotional accompaniment. Kane’s YouTube origins and subsequent TikTok success demonstrated how artists could leverage multiple platforms sequentially to build comprehensive digital presence. “I Guess I’m in Love” achieved hundreds of millions of streams and established Kane as voice for young people navigating complicated romantic feelings in the digital age.
The song’s stripped-back production—featuring primarily acoustic guitar and vocals—stood out in an era of heavily produced pop, with its simplicity enhancing rather than diminishing its emotional impact. Kane’s active social media presence, sharing personal stories and engaging authentically with fans, created deeper connections than artists who maintained professional distance from their audiences. The track benefited from its universal theme—the surprise and vulnerability of falling in love—which translated across cultural and demographic boundaries. “I Guess I’m in Love” demonstrated that despite social media’s reputation for promoting superficial content, emotionally substantive music could achieve equal or greater success when executed with genuine artistic intent and authentic connection to universal human experiences.
Zoe Wees – Control
German artist Zoe Wees’s “Control” became an international success story, demonstrating that social media could launch careers beyond English-speaking markets. The powerful ballad, sung in English, addressed Wees’s personal experiences with health challenges and anxiety, creating deeply moving content that resonated across linguistic and cultural boundaries. The song went viral across multiple European markets before breaking through in the United States, showing how social media discovery increasingly operated globally rather than within traditional territorial boundaries. “Control” achieved multi-platinum status across numerous countries and introduced Wees as major new talent, with her powerful vocals and emotional authenticity transcending typical pop formulas.
The track’s production built gradually from piano-driven verses to anthemic choruses, creating dynamic journey that translated effectively to social media content requiring emotional arcs. Wees’s youth and authenticity resonated particularly strongly with audiences seeking genuine artistic expression rather than manufactured pop personas. Her use of social media to discuss her health journey and encourage others facing similar challenges created purpose beyond commercial success, building artist brand centered on inspiration and empowerment. “Control” illustrated that social media had truly globalized music discovery, with geographic location mattering less than artistic quality and emotional resonance in determining which artists found international audiences.
JVKE – golden hour
Producer and multi-instrumentalist JVKE achieved breakthrough success with “golden hour,” a track that showcased his production talents and understanding of social media aesthetics. The song’s warm, nostalgic production and romantic lyrics created perfect soundtrack for sunset content, travel videos, and relationship montages across TikTok and Instagram. JVKE’s background as producer, creating beats for other artists, informed his sophisticated approach to crafting music optimized for both algorithmic promotion and genuine human connection. “Golden hour” accumulated hundreds of millions of streams and established JVKE as artist rather than just behind-the-scenes producer, demonstrating how social media allowed creatives to showcase multiple talents simultaneously.
His regular posting of music production content, showing his creative process and studio setup, educated aspiring producers while building his own artistic brand. The track’s success benefited from its visual appeal—users specifically sought out golden hour lighting for their videos, creating organic connection between song title and content aesthetics. JVKE’s strategic use of TikTok to preview songs and gather feedback before official releases demonstrated sophisticated understanding of how social platforms could inform artistic decisions. “Golden hour” proved that production-focused artists could achieve mainstream success in the social media era, with beats and sonic aesthetics becoming as important as lyrics and vocals in determining viral potential.
Remi Wolf – Photo ID
Remi Wolf’s “Photo ID” represented the quirkier, more experimental side of social media music success, proving that unconventional artists could find devoted audiences on digital platforms. The California artist’s eclectic production style and distinctive vocal delivery created music that stood out in increasingly homogeneous streaming playlists. The song went viral among music enthusiasts seeking alternatives to mainstream pop, with its weird-in-the-best-way aesthetics resonating with users tired of algorithmic sameness. “Photo ID” introduced Wolf to audiences who might never have discovered her through traditional radio, demonstrating social media’s power to support diverse artistic visions rather than just commercially safe content.
Wolf’s engaging personality on social media, featuring humor and self-awareness, built connections with fans who appreciated artists not taking themselves too seriously while still creating substantial music. The track’s production incorporated elements of funk, pop, and indie rock, creating genre-fluid sound that appealed to social media’s increasingly genre-agnostic listening habits. Her willingness to experiment visually and sonically, taking creative risks that traditional labels might discourage, resonated with audiences seeking authentic artistic expression. “Photo ID” illustrated that social media success didn’t require following formulas, with distinctive artistic voices potentially finding devoted niches that supported sustainable careers outside mainstream pop machinery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an artist “blow up” on social media?
Artists blow up on social media through a combination of factors including creating shareable content, understanding platform algorithms, and authentic engagement with audiences. The most successful social media artists produce music that soundtracks specific types of content—whether dance challenges, emotional storytelling, or lifestyle videos—making their songs useful tools for content creators. Timing plays a crucial role, with artists who understand current trends and platform dynamics positioning themselves for viral moments. Authenticity remains essential, as audiences can detect manufactured personas and gravitate toward artists who engage genuinely rather than purely transactionally. Consistency matters as much as initial virality, with sustained social media presence helping artists convert temporary attention into long-term fanbases. Many successful artists also leverage multiple platforms strategically rather than focusing exclusively on single channels, building comprehensive digital presence that reaches audiences across their preferred social spaces.
How has TikTok specifically changed music discovery?
TikTok has fundamentally transformed music discovery by democratizing promotion and allowing songs to go viral organically rather than through expensive marketing campaigns. The platform’s algorithm prioritizes engagement over follower counts, meaning unknown artists can achieve the same visibility as established stars if their content resonates. TikTok shortened the pathway from creation to mainstream success, with artists now achieving in months what previously required years of industry development. The platform’s emphasis on short-form content influenced songwriting itself, with many artists now creating music optimized for 15-60 second videos rather than traditional radio formats. TikTok also extended songs’ commercial lifespans, with tracks released years ago finding new audiences through viral moments that traditional media couldn’t replicate. The platform created new metrics for success, with social engagement sometimes mattering more than traditional sales or radio play in determining industry interest and deal-making.
Can artists sustain careers after social media virality?
Artists can absolutely sustain careers after initial social media virality, but it requires strategic planning beyond just repeating viral formulas. The most successful artists use viral moments as launching pads rather than destinations, quickly following up with quality content that demonstrates depth beyond single songs. Consistent engagement with fans through social media helps maintain relationships built during viral periods, converting casual listeners into devoted supporters. Artists who diversify their presence across multiple platforms rather than depending solely on where they initially went viral build more resilient careers. Many successful artists also develop their skills continuously, using resources from viral success to improve production, songwriting, and performance abilities. The key distinction between flash-in-the-pan viral moments and sustainable careers lies in whether artists view social media as their entire strategy or as one component of comprehensive artistic development that includes live performance, consistent release schedules, and meaningful fan connection.
How do social media algorithms impact which artists succeed?
Social media algorithms significantly impact artist success by determining content visibility and recommendation patterns that either amplify or suppress music. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram prioritize content generating high engagement quickly, favoring music that provokes immediate reactions—whether dancing, emotional responses, or creative inspiration. Algorithms increasingly recognize and promote trending sounds, creating snowball effects where popular songs gain exponentially more exposure than less-used tracks. Understanding algorithm preferences helps artists optimize content for maximum visibility, from posting times to video formats to caption strategies. However, algorithms also create challenges, potentially penalizing artists who don’t maintain consistent posting schedules or whose content doesn’t generate immediate engagement. The democratizing effect of algorithms—allowing unknown artists to compete with major labels—comes with the cost of constant platform changes requiring continuous adaptation. Artists who succeed long-term typically balance algorithm optimization with authentic creative expression, using platform knowledge strategically without compromising artistic integrity.
What role does authenticity play in social media music success?
Authenticity serves as perhaps the most critical factor in converting social media attention into sustainable music careers, with audiences increasingly sophisticated at detecting manufactured personas versus genuine artists. Fans gravitate toward artists who share vulnerabilities, discuss real struggles, and maintain consistent personalities across platforms rather than presenting polished, impenetrable celebrity images. Authentic engagement—responding to comments personally, sharing behind-the-scenes content, and acknowledging both successes and failures—builds deeper connections than purely promotional content. Artists who address real issues, whether mental health, relationship challenges, or social justice concerns, often develop more devoted fanbases than those creating only escapist entertainment. However, authenticity requires balance, with successful artists maintaining some privacy while still offering meaningful glimpses into their lives and creative processes. The most effective social media artists understand that audiences want to support real people pursuing genuine artistic visions rather than just consuming commercial products, making authenticity both ethical imperative and strategic advantage.
How has social media changed the traditional music industry power structure?
Social media has significantly disrupted traditional music industry hierarchies by allowing artists to build careers independently of labels, radio programmers, and industry gatekeepers. Artists can now prove commercial viability through streaming numbers and social engagement before signing deals, negotiating from positions of strength rather than desperation. The traditional artist development process—where labels invested years grooming artists—has been compressed or eliminated entirely, with social media providing direct audience feedback that guides creative decisions. Revenue streams have diversified, with artists earning from social media partnerships, livestream performances, and direct fan support through platforms like Patreon alongside traditional royalties. The success metrics have evolved beyond just album sales and radio play to include social engagement, streaming numbers, and viral moments—data that artists can access directly without industry intermediaries. However, major labels haven’t become obsolete but rather adapted, using social media metrics to identify promising artists and offering resources that help sustain careers beyond initial viral success.
What are the challenges of building a music career primarily through social media?
Building music careers primarily through social media presents significant challenges including algorithm dependency, platform volatility, and the constant pressure to create content beyond just music. Artists risk burnout from maintaining presence across multiple platforms while also creating, recording, and performing music—essentially working multiple full-time jobs simultaneously. The ephemeral nature of social media trends means today’s viral sensation can become tomorrow’s forgotten artist without consistent content and engagement. Platform changes—whether algorithm updates, new competitors, or policy modifications—can devastate carefully built audiences overnight, leaving artists with little recourse. The pressure to optimize content for virality sometimes conflicts with artistic integrity, forcing difficult decisions between commercial potential and creative vision. Mental health challenges arise from public scrutiny, negative comments, and the comparison culture inherent to social media platforms. Revenue from streaming and social media often proves insufficient without touring, merchandise, and other income streams that require infrastructure beyond digital presence. Despite these challenges, social media remains invaluable for emerging artists, with successful musicians learning to balance platform demands with personal wellbeing and authentic artistic development.