TikTok has revolutionized the music industry, offering musicians an unprecedented platform to showcase their talent, connect with fans, and even go viral overnight. As a video-sharing app focused on short-form, creative content, TikTok’s unique algorithm and vast user base have made it a key player in the success of many up-and-coming artists. 

Why is TikTok So Special?

TikTok allows users to create and share videos ranging from 15 seconds to 10 minutes, with the ability to add music, filters, effects, and more. The app’s defining feature is its highly personalized “For You” page (FYP), which uses an advanced algorithm to serve users content based on their interests and engagement. Unlike other platforms, TikTok’s algorithm makes it easier for anyone—regardless of follower count—to go viral if their content resonates with viewers.

What makes TikTok special for musicians:

  • Music Integration: Music is at the heart of TikTok. Users often create videos that lip-sync, dance, or act to popular songs, allowing music to spread quickly and organically.
  • Viral Potential: TikTok’s algorithm is designed to highlight content that performs well, giving every post the potential to be seen by millions. This has allowed countless musicians to launch their careers through viral videos.
  • Trend-Driven: TikTok thrives on trends, challenges, and memes. Artists who participate in or create trends can quickly gain visibility, making it a great platform for boosting song popularity.

Am I Too Old For TikTok?

TikTok has an incredibly diverse user base, though it’s particularly popular among younger audiences. As of 2024, the platform boasts over 1 billion active users, making it one of the fastest-growing social media apps in the world.

Key demographic insights:

  • Age: TikTok’s core audience consists of users aged 16-24, but it’s increasingly attracting older users, with 25-34 and even 35+ demographics showing significant growth.
  • Global Reach: TikTok is used in over 150 countries, with large user bases in the U.S., Europe, and parts of Asia, giving musicians an international platform to share their music.
  • Gender: The platform is used by both men and women, with a slight skew towards female users.

TikTok’s large, young, and global audience makes it ideal for musicians looking to connect with Gen Z and millennials, both of whom are highly engaged and influential in shaping pop culture and music trends.

Does TikTok Really Launch Artists?

TikTok has dramatically changed the music industry, becoming a key platform for music discovery and viral success. Many songs and artists have gained massive popularity thanks to the platform, with some even achieving mainstream chart success due to TikTok’s influence. Artists like Noah Kahan and Chappel Roan have had massive success on the app and increased the visibility of their albums. Artists like Fleetwood Mac and Kate Bush have been revived on the app, bringing new listeners because of trends.

Key ways TikTok has impacted artist careers:

  • Viral Hits: Songs that gain traction on TikTok often make their way to streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, boosting streaming numbers and revenue. Viral TikTok songs frequently chart on Billboard and other global charts.
  • Exposure to Industry Professionals: Record labels, A&Rs, and industry professionals actively scout TikTok for emerging talent. A viral video can lead to deals, collaborations, or other career opportunities.
  • Fan Engagement: TikTok allows artists to interact directly with fans through trends, challenges, and duets, fostering a deeper connection with their audience. Engaged followers on TikTok often translate to loyal fans who support artists on streaming platforms, attend concerts, and buy merchandise.

5 Tips to Get Started on TikTok as a Musician:

1. Create Authentic and Engaging Content.

TikTok users value authenticity, and musicians who show their true selves tend to perform better. You don’t need to create overly polished videos—fans love seeing the behind-the-scenes moments, raw performances, and your creative process. Keep your videos engaging and fun, but also show your personality.

Tip: Share a mix of content, from short clips of your music to behind-the-scenes looks at your rehearsals, songwriting sessions, or daily life. The more relatable and real you are, the better.

2. Leverage Trends and Challenges

One of TikTok’s strengths is its trend-driven culture. Participating in trending challenges, memes, or dances related to your music can help you gain visibility. If your song is part of a trend, it can inspire thousands (or millions) of users to create videos with your track, exponentially increasing your reach.

Tip: Keep an eye on trending hashtags and challenges, and find creative ways to incorporate your music into them. You can also create your own challenge around your song and encourage fans to participate.

3. Collaborate with Influencers and Other Musicians

Collaboration is key on TikTok, and partnering with other creators can boost your profile. Influencers and musicians with large followings can help promote your music by creating content with your songs or doing duets with you.

Tip: Reach out to TikTok influencers who align with your genre or style and propose collaborations. You can offer them your music to use in their content or work on creative projects together to expand your reach.

4. Utilize TikTok’s Music Features and Sound Library

TikTok’s integration of music is one of its strongest assets. Make sure your music is available in TikTok’s sound library so users can find and use it in their own videos. You can also promote specific parts of your songs, like a catchy chorus or hook, to encourage users to create content around it.

Tip: Make sure  your music is available on TikTok through your distributor. Highlight snippets of your songs that are likely to catch on, and share them with your followers.

5. Engage with Your Followers

TikTok thrives on interaction, and engaging with your fans can significantly boost your visibility. Reply to comments, like and share fan videos, and participate in duets to show appreciation for your audience. Building a strong connection with your followers will help you cultivate a loyal fanbase.

Tip: Respond to fan-created content by duetting or reacting to their videos. Fans love feeling acknowledged by their favorite artists, and this interaction can inspire even more people to use your music in their content.

TikTok is an invaluable tool for musicians looking to grow their fanbase, gain exposure, and even break into the mainstream music scene. With its viral potential, music-driven culture, and global reach, TikTok provides a platform where musicians of all genres can thrive. By creating authentic content, engaging with trends, and fostering connections with followers, musicians can use TikTok to take their careers to the next level.