Have you ever heard of TikTok? It is a video app that has become one of the most popular social media platforms among teens. Users can make dancing videos to different music, do various viral challenges, and simply watch for entertainment. TikTok has over one billion downloads , and as its popularity has continued to spread, its influence is also increasing.

TikTok has become a global sensation in just a short amount of time, eclipsing what Vine was by becoming a viral phenomenon. Vine launched in 2013, and was the most popular short-form video social media app by 2015. Sophia Stoddard, a junior at Lafayette High School, spoke about how Vine was the starting point of comedy, and TikTok has taken after it. “Vine was the first social that made me laugh, but TikTok is now the funniest app out there.” Not long after its short few years of fame, Vine officially shutdown in January of 2016. This allowed an opening for TikTok to take the spotlight.

Many teenagers downloaded the TikTok app just for fun, then ended up becoming famous. All it takes is one video to go viral and you will accumulate thousands of followers. Aaron Zimmerman, a junior at Lafayette High School, explained why he downloaded TikTok. “I saw all my friends on my soccer team watching TikToks, so I downloaded it to see what it was about.” He told me he downloaded it as a joke, but realized his potential due to his humor, and started making daily videos for several weeks. After vigorously trying to become famous he began to lose hope but would give it one last try the night before school started. He reposted one of his best TikToks and would wake up to 50,000 views, which would rocket to 1.3 million views. This goes to show how easily everyday people can become famous.

There is a convention called “VidCon” that features famous YouTubers and influencers. It has been held annually in Southern California since 2010, and is the world’s largest event for fans who are passionate about online video. VidCon consists of meet and greets, live performances, and a celebration of digital and online video. This year VidCon was taken over by TikTok-ers. There was an exclusive party that was run by the company, but only the best of the best were invited. TikTok’s overthrow of VidCon proves just how popular the social media app has become.

Many sounds and songs from TikTok have become very popular in the music industry. Songs like “The Git Up” and “Truth Hurts” have even reached the top charts from being used so much on TikTok. Gracie Gallagher, a junior at Lafayette High School, has added several songs from TikTok to her personal playlists. “TikTok has introduced me to many songs that I enjoy listening to every day now.”The exposure music has gotten from TikTok has been great for the music industry.

TikTok has become one of the most superior social media app in today’s society, and has sky rocketed in influence and fame. With this addition to the lifestyles of teenagers, TikTok has given individuals a new platform to express their opinions and ideas.