TikTok and Music Discovery for Singers: What You Need to Know
The TikTok Effect on Emerging Artists
Over the last few years, TikTok has revolutionized the music industry, especially for younger and early-career singers. Songs can go viral overnight, launching previously unknown artists into the spotlight. For students at HVS conservatory, TikTok may seem like the perfect platform to gain exposure. But music discovery via TikTok comes with risks for singers.
The Pros: Visibility, Virality & Instant Feedback
Going viral for a singer can be a rush with lots of pluses:
- Wider Reach: With over a billion users, TikTok offers unprecedented access to a global audience.
- Career Breakthroughs: Singers like JVKE, Lauren Spencer Smith, and GAYLE have signed record deals after their music was discovered through viral TikToks.
- Instant Feedback: Singers can gauge reactions to their performances in real-time, allowing for agile growth.
The Cons: Oversaturation and Performance Pressure
Sometimes the desire to go viral on TikTok and have your music discovered can lead you away from your vision as an artist:
- Trendy Over Talented: Sometimes, catchy content gets rewarded more than true vocal skill.
- Algorithm Dependency: Singers can burn out chasing virality, with no guaranteed return.
- Short Shelf Life: Trends move quickly, making it hard to build lasting artistic identity.
How Conservatory Students Can Use TikTok Wisely
- Showcase Your Skills: Use TikTok for polished performances and vocal technique tips.
- Stay Authentic: Share behind-the-scenes moments to connect with viewers on a human level.
- Don’t Chase Trends Blindly: Use your training to shape your own voice, not just replicate what’s viral.
TikTok-Discovered Artists with Original Video Links
- Lil Nas X
- Breakout Song: Old Town Road
- TikTok Video Date: April 2019
- Original Video: Lil Nas X’s TikTok video promoting “Old Town Road” contributed to its viral success. (Them)
- Doja Cat
- Breakout Song: Say So
- TikTok Dance Video Date: December 11, 2019
- Original Video: Haley Sharpe’s TikTok Dance
- Note: Doja Cat later featured Haley Sharpe in her official music video for “Say So.” (Know Your Meme, BuzzFeed News)
- Benee
- Breakout Song: Supalonely
- TikTok Video Date: March 2020
- Original Video: Pitchfork’s Report on TikTok’s Influence
- Note: Benee’s song gained massive traction on TikTok through dance challenges and influencer endorsements. (Pitchfork)
- Lauren Spencer Smith
- Breakout Song: Fingers Crossed
- TikTok Video Date: March 2021
- Original Video: Lauren Spencer Smith’s TikTok Performance
- Note: Lauren’s heartfelt performance of “Fingers Crossed” went viral, leading to a record deal.
- Tai Verdes
- Breakout Song: Stuck in the Middle
- TikTok Video Date: April 2020
- Original Video: Tai Verdes’ TikTok Introduction
- Note: Tai’s engaging TikTok content and catchy song snippets helped him gain a significant following.
- JVKE
- Breakout Song: Upside Down
- TikTok Video Date: July 2021
- Original Video: JVKE’s TikTok Performance
- Note: JVKE’s unique blend of pop and classical elements resonated with TikTok users.
- GAYLE
- Breakout Song: abcdefu
- TikTok Video Date: October 2021
- Original Video: GAYLE’s TikTok Announcement
- Note: GAYLE’s bold lyrics and catchy tune made “abcdefu” a TikTok favorite.(DIE WELT)
- Rosie (ROSIE)
- Breakout Song: Never the 1
- TikTok Video Date: June 2021
- Original Video: ROSIE’s TikTok Performance
- Note: ROSIE’s raw and emotional performances captivated TikTok audiences.
- Dixie D’Amelio
- Breakout Song: Be Happy
- TikTok Video Date: June 2020
- Original Video: Dixie D’Amelio’s TikTok Introduction
- Note: Dixie transitioned from TikTok star to music artist with her debut single.
- Tate McRae
- Breakout Song: you broke me first
- TikTok Video Date: April 2020
- Original Video: Tate McRae’s TikTok Performance
- Note: Tate’s emotional song and relatable lyrics resonated with TikTok users.
- Em Beihold
- Breakout Song: Numb Little Bug
- TikTok Video Date: February 2022
- Original Video: Em Beihold’s TikTok Performance
- Note: Em’s introspective lyrics and soothing vocals gained traction on TikTok.
- Stephen Sanchez
- Breakout Song: Until I Found You
- TikTok Video Date: September 2021
- Original Video: Stephen Sanchez’s TikTok Performance
- Note: Stephen’s vintage-inspired sound and heartfelt performance captivated TikTok audiences.
- Armani White
- Breakout Song: BILLIE EILISH.
- TikTok Video Date: July 2021
- Original Video: Armani White’s TikTok Performance
- Note: Armani’s energetic performance and catchy hook made “BILLIE EILISH.” a TikTok sensation.
Final Thoughts
TikTok is a powerful tool—but it’s just one piece of your artistic journey. It’s important to remember that TikTok is not the only way singers get discovered. And at HVS Conservatory, we prepare our students to succeed in both digital and live performance spaces, so they can thrive with or without a viral moment.
At HVS Conservatory, you can develop the necessary tools to succeed in the music industry. Based in Los Angeles, our faculty of music industry experts coach aspiring artists by passing on real-world training from their personal experiences alongside necessary musical training. Check out our schedule of masterclasses and free community events, including acoustic sessions, seasonal open house events, and artist showcases.