TikTok has become an influential launchpad for many artists. With its billions of views, it offers musicians a platform to showcase their talent. Let’s dive into the stories of seven musicians who turned TikTok exposure into mainstream music success.
1. Olivia Rodrigo
Previously known to audiences as a Disney star, Rodrigo took the music world by storm when her song ‘Driver’s Licence’ went viral on TikTok in 2021. The attention led to her album topping the charts worldwide. Following the song’s success, a documentary detailing her rise to fame was released.
2. Dove Cameron
Known from the Disney Channel series ‘Liv and Maddie,’ Cameron used TikTok to introduce her single ‘Boyfriend,’ which is about queer relationships. The song has been featured in 100 million TikTok videos, and with her 12.4 million followers, Cameron has used the platform to engage with a new wave of fans.
3. Lil Nas X
Montero Lamar Hill, popularly known as Lil Nas X, exploded onto the global scene with ‘Old Town Road.’ TikTok played an important role, as the song initially garnered attention on the platform. It later set a record on the Billboard Hot 100 and even led to a collaboration with country star Billy Ray Cyrus. Lil Nas X also received two Grammy Awards in 2020 and continues to engage with his 29.1 million followers on the platform.
4. Ashnikko
Ashnikko caught attention on TikTok in 2019 with her single ‘STUPID.’ She’s continued to forge her own musical path, gaining traction for songs like ‘Panic Attacks in Paradise.’ With 4.2 million TikTok followers and counting, Ashnikko has managed to maintain her influence on the platform.
5. Doja Cat
While Doja Cat already had a presence in the music world, it was her song ‘Say So’ that became a TikTok sensation. Beyond ‘Say So,’ Doja Cat has released multiple songs that have graced the top 20 charts. Her early music journey started in 2014 on SoundCloud, but TikTok played a pivotal role in her rise to fame. Her music journey was later followed by four studio albums, with the most recent being ‘Scarlet.’
6. Loren Gray
Starting young at 13, Gray began sharing videos on TikTok and developed a following. Moving to Los Angeles, she transitioned from influencer to musician, releasing several singles and amassing over 100 million online streams. With 54 million TikTok followers, Gray has used the platform to share her music and engage with fans. Her reach extends to platforms like YouTube, where behind-the-scenes content offers fans a look into her music-making process.
7. 24kGoldn
Based out of San Francisco, 24kGoldn reached major success with his single ‘Valentino,’ which achieved platinum status when he was just 18. TikTok played a role, with the song featuring in over 400,000 videos. Currently, with 5.8 million followers, 24kGoldn collaborates with fellow TikTok musicians, offering fresh takes on his songs and consistently engaging with fans.