TikTok has become more than just a social media app— it’s a cultural movement driving trends around the world. With its billion users, many of them below the age of 25, TikTok has become one of the most influential forces in terms of music, fashion, lifestyle, and entertainment today.
A new music powerhouse has been developed as TikTok has changed the way songs become hits. Rather than the radio or a playlist being the first platform people discover music, TikTok offers short clips that, through trends, can cause a song to blow up overnight. Many artists rely on TikTok as a key part of their music being discovered. A clear example of a song that gained immense popularity from TikTok is “We Hug Now” by Sydney Rose. This became Sydney Rose’s breakthrough hit as users started posting videos using a memorable line from the lyrics, helping it accumulate millions of streams, and introduce it to a wider audience. Artists and producers even use strategies such as catchy hooks, knowing it will fit well into short video trends, and be more likely to gain popularity.
Similarly, dance culture has been revived through short-form choreography challenges. These dances are able to spread fast, and reach a diverse audience. They have in many ways become a big part of everyday youth culture, and don’t just stay within the TikTok app. Many of the dances show up in concerts, commercials, or TV shows.
While the app is mainly known for its popular dances and music, it is no longer limited to just these types of trends. It has become a place where political ideas and discussions are had, particularly among younger audiences. Many users go on TikTok to unwind and have fun, however, that does not mean a large number do not see and engage with political content in their feeds. Almost half of TikTok users encounter some form of political content on their feed. According to Pew Research Center, TikTok can boost political engagement, inspire people to want to learn more, or even join political groups. Many users claim that the app helps them form opinions about politicians, or current issues. Other researchers such as Zicheng Cheng warn young viewers that content on TikTok can be divisive, or even polarizing, especially when engagement-driven posts favor emotionally charged or negative messaging, as opposed to calm, fact-based discussion.
It has now become the norm for politicians to use TikTok to reach younger voters in ways that they previously could not. The Times has stated that in the U.K., Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has invited TikTok creators to Downing Street briefings and built a social media presence to explain policies in a way that feels more relatable and fun.
TikTok’s impact on politics is not simple. It definitely helps young people learn about issues and encourages participation. It also has the effect of spreading political content very quickly due to its fast algorithm. However, political messages on TikTok can blur the line between entertainment and serious civic discussion, making it more important than ever to think deeply about what we see online, and do the necessary research to discover our beliefs as individuals.
