Ultimate Guide: How To Go Viral On TikTok

Have you heard of the new app called TikTok? I wouldn’t be surprised if you did! It’s the new platform that everyone seems to be talking about. Although it started off by targeting a younger audience, TikTok is now taking the internet by storm as it begins to appeal to all age groups. In its simplicity, the platform allows you to share videos.

There seems to be a trend for anything you might be interested in! From dog videos to delicious iced coffee recipes, all the way to shirtless boys dancing, TikTok seems to have it all in 60 seconds or less.

Users are able to scroll down the main page, also called the For You Page (FYP). From there, users are able to like, comment, and share videos that they enjoy. TikTok will then take that user’s information to show them more videos that they might like.

If your video does well, TikTok will continue to push your video out to more and more people. Soon enough, you’ll know whether or not you have a viral video. 

If you’re someone who’s interested in social media analytics and growth trends, then keep on reading for the ultimate guide on how to go viral on TikTok!

1. Make A Lasting Impression

TikTok is a fast-paced platform. As mentioned previously, videos are typically under 60 seconds in length. People will often scroll past out of boredom if your video doesn’t offer anything interesting within the first few seconds. Make a good first impression and give the people a reason to stay and watch until the end.

2. Keep It Short

Long and drawn out clips aren’t suited for this environment. If you want to post longer videos, stick to Youtube. On TikTok, you’re more likely to keep someone watching your video if it’s 10 seconds rather than a full minute long. Crunch it down as best you can, and give the most important information right at the beginning.

3. Use Your Own Audio

TikTok wants to take as much information as you can give it so that it can show your content to the right people. Sure, we all have the power of technology on our side so we can use hashtags and captions. But adding your own voiceover can only help you, not hinder you. Use as much of your own audio as you can, because the more information you can give TikTok the better.

4. Use Trending Audio

Using your own audio is important, but so is using trending audio. Think about it. If there is a trending song for example, people will be searching for it. And they will find videos that have used it. If you’re one of those people, you might just catch the attention of a few more people!

5. Storytelling

Sure you can go viral for something like dancing, but unless you’ve got something really special and different to offer, chances are you probably won’t get noticed. Stories go viral way more often, and they’re also super easy to do. You don’t even necessarily need to tell the truth, not that I’m condoning you to lie. But people are always up for listening to a good story, especially a story of something that doesn’t happen everyday!

6. Share Important Information

If you have any tips, tricks, or important information that you think people need to know, don’t shy away from sharing it! People love learning new things, especially things that can be taught in under a minute. So grab your phone and start sharing!

7. Tell People What They Should Do

Your videos should always give a suggestion for what viewers should do with the video once they’re done watching it. For example, some people caption their videos “Don’t let this flop” or “Like for part 2”. People are more than likely to do something with your video if you write it out for them vs. if you don’t.

8. Give Them Something To Talk About

People love to talk. We should’ve learned this from the comment section on Youtube over the years. People will discuss, debate, and argue over things that may not even be the focus of your video, such as what you were wearing that day or why you’re doing what you’re doing. Keep that in mind when creating your video, to give you audience something to talk about even if it’s not your main focus. 

9. Don’t Explain

If your audience is questioning certain things in your video and it’s creating a bit of a controversy in the comment section, leave the question unanswered! It drives people crazy with curiosity and it will continue to add more comments as people try to figure it out.

10. Controversy Is Key

Now I’m not saying that you should do anything illegal, or absurdly controversial. But from the last two points I’ve mentioned, you know by now that people love to talk and give their opinions on certain things. By purposely doing something controversial that will grab viewers attention, like putting pineapples on pizza for example, people will be sure to fight over it in the comments thus giving your video more interaction, and eventually making your video go viral.

11. Connection

You can either be relatable, inspirational, or hateable online in order to make a lasting impression. Choosing which one to go for can either make or break your online career, so choose wisely! Bhad Bhabie is a good example of a celebrity who made it to the top just for being the worst guest to ever appear on Dr. Phil. Find a way to connect with your audience.

12. Repetition

If you purposely make a part of your video too fast or put text up that disappears too quickly, it could make someone re-watch your video in order to catch what they missed. When doing so, it tells the TikTok algorithm that your video is worth being watched a second time and in turn, could get you more views from other people. Just don’t do it too much.

13. Have Text

Having text somewhere in your video but better yet, on the opening video frame, will keep viewers watching your video for a few seconds longer and again this is great for the TikTok algorithm.

14. Careful With The Hashtags

Many people try to use hashtags in efforts to get their videos out there. However, using generic hashtags won’t serve you any real purpose because everyone uses them. Remember, the riches are in the niches. Use a niche hashtag instead because not everyone is searching for it.

15. Reply

As you’ve probably figured out by now, the more interaction with your videos the better. This means that if people are liking and commenting on your video, answer your comments and try to engage and ask follow up questions with your viewers. This tells the TikTik algorithm that your video is worth commenting on and in turn, will show it to more people.

16. Keep It Up

After posting a viral TikTok video, don’t just stop there. The more you post, the better. Also, the more you post the better you’ll get at making videos. Don’t miss out on quality over quantity, but push out as many as you can schedule every week to give you a higher chance of making more viral videos. One thing is for sure, if you don’t post then you won’t go viral.

17. Don’t Choose A Niche Just Yet

When starting out on TikTok, it’s important to appeal to a huge audience. So make as many different types of videos as you can to see what does the best on the app, before narrowing yourself down to only a small group of people. You can niche once you already have a strong following and like count. 

18. Don’t Link Products

Especially when doing a product review and you’re starting out, as tempting as it is, don’t like your products. If you do, people will have no questions to ask you. Instead, talk about a product that you love but don’t entirely show it on camera or give its full name. In turn, people will comment asking what it is and give your video more interaction.

19. Trends 

Posting on TikTok is important, but did you know watching TikToks is important too? I’m not saying to spend all your free time on the app, but spending at least 20 minutes worth will help you stay on top of trends and give you more ideas for potential video content. Obviously, you don’t want to completely copy other people’s ideas, but doing your own spin-off version will more than likely get you views!

20. Don’t Give Up

Going viral can take time, hard work, and dedication. But just because you’re not seeing results right away, doesn’t mean you should just give up. It takes time to figure out your personal style and what interests you and your audience. Most importantly, have fun with it!

Some additional tips and tricks to grow your audience would be to follow top creators! For example, if you happen to be a dancer, then following someone like Charli D’Amelio who is famous for her dances, can give you ideas on dances and songs to use for your videos!

TikTok also gives you tools like filters, the green screen, and audio effects. Use these tools to your advantage, because they can often elevate your footage.

Also, don’t just share your video to TikTok. TikTok makes it really easy for you to post your videos to other platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter where an even larger group of people are waiting to watch!

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, going viral on TikTok might be easier said than done, but it doesn’t mean it’s impossible! With these tips and tricks, anyone can go viral! It just takes some dedication. 

- By Jessika Molnar

If you need further help creating your own marketing videos, we offer video production services that will help you elevate your brand!

We look forward to being a part of your success. Contact us here to get started.

Top 10 Rap Songs That Revolutionized Pop Culture

There are so many rap songs in pop culture that are praised for their beats. How many songs have hyped you up, had you waiting for the beat drop, and just livened the room? 

In the last decade, rap music has revolutionized its production, borrowing from many genres including trap, grime, drill, and more. 

Here are 10 rap songs (in no order) that we think embodied this all!

1. “March Madness”- Future

There is no denying that this song blew the charts back in the summer of 2015. The song quickly became a popular hit, played by famous athletes, parties, clubs, and even college basketball games as noted in a Billboard article by Patrick Lyons in the billboard.

 Even more, “March Madness” is also not just another empty pop song.

 If you listen to the lyrics, you will see the deeper meaning there is to the song, with lines referring to the unfortunate recent police shootings at the time. 

What’s so amazing about the success of this song is the fact that it was not even promoted, or even sold as it was part of a mixtape. This was the beginning of the streaming and digital era where artists just released their music and let social media do their marketing which actually made “March Madness” even bigger! It was a shift in pop culture that is truly timeless. 

 March madness- Future

Producer- Tarentino 

2. “212”- Azealia Banks

Azealia Banks’ song “212” was a refreshing addition to the rap game with her flawless rapping over an upbeat house beat instrumental. This song is so catchy and unique, it was constantly played on the radio at the time. 

Although she may be controversial, there is no denying her talent. Many people stand by the belief that the song remains instrumental to pop culture and was even added to Billboards “Top 100 influential rap songs of the last decade!”. 

What makes “212” is the unforgettable hook “this sh*t been mine, mine”, fused together with the futuristic beat made by producers Luncine and Jacques Greene.

 An article in the billboard emphasizes how the song was truly one of a kind with its seamless mix of the genre’s hip hop and electro house.

 Not to mention, the outrageously simple, yet creative black and white music video that went viral along with the song. Watch the music video below to understand what we’re talking about!

Producer- Lazy Jay

3. “Trap Queen”- Fetty Wap

How would a song like this not get big? Fetty Wap’s lovely melodic vocals, blasting trap beat, and lyrics confessing his love for his “trap queen”, what more can you ask for?! It is no surprise that this song was THE song of the summer. Fetty Wap made hit after hit in 2015-15, but when the world needed him most… vanished!

If you think about it, this song defied many of the rules rap artists follow to become popular. No wonder it was so big and resonated with so many listeners around the world.  It can be argued that the song romanticizes this difficult lifestyle but when you listen carefully it is clear it is pretty self-aware as discussed in vox.  Listen to the song in the link below for a major throwback!

Producer: Tony Fadd

4. “Alright”- Kendrick Lamar

On the complete opposite side of rap, comes the ANTHEM of a song called “Alright” by Kendrick Lamar. This song reflects  Black American trauma, resilience, as well as strength with the reassuring chant of the words “We gon’ be alright” over and over again. If you want to learn more in-depth about what this song means to Black Americans, check out this article by National Public Radio.

Personally, anytime I listen to this song I am put into a great mood with the optimistic lyrics and beat. The song is produced by Pharrell and if you listen closely, in the beginning, you can hear Pharrell's signature 4 beat start! In addition, Kendrick’s flow is just out of this world, spitting out verse after verse of meaningful lyrics and rhymes. 

This is definitely a song that will stand the test of time and become one of those essential classics that will be passed down generations!

Producer: Pharell, Sounwave

5. “Sicko Mode”- Drake and Travis Scott

Now, let us move a little bit closer to the present with Drake and Travis Scott’s recent 2018 hit, “Sicko Mode”. There is almost no way you haven’t heard of the song with the way it was replayed on the radio and viral on social media. There is no doubt that “Sicko Mode” was anything but the hit song of the summer.

What’s amazing about the song is how it actually has 4 beats that were made with a team of producers including Hit-Boy, Tay Keith, Cue Beats, and more (Flypaper). Looking at an article by Flypaper, I was truly shocked at how intricate the production that this amazing instrumental involved. From sampling a dubstep track, an ominous vibe made with minimal piano, a warped synth bass line, it was truly overwhelming to read! 

Rap production has revolutionized creativity behind rap beats, and sometimes outshines rapping/lyric performance! If you want to learn more about beat production, check out Jony Studios. 

6. “Bodack Yellow”- Cardi B

Cardi B’s song “Bodack Yellow” was a hit that constantly played on the radio and was the debut that made her career. “Bodack Yellow” was so popular, it literally made history as the longest a solo women had a rap song running in the charts since Lauryn Hill’s song “Doo Woop” 22 years ago (soundonsound)! 

What’s unique about the song is how minimal the production involved was.  

It was simple, a memorizing flow borrowed from Kodak black’s “No Flockin”, combined with Cardi’s B’s vocal charisma and strong beat produced by Fight club Studios. Personally, what makes the song for me is the amplifying bass of the beat which further emphasizes the power in her lyrics. 

Producer(s); J. White Did it, Laquan Green

7. “Mercy”- Kanye West ft. Big Sean, Pusha T, 2 Chainz

This song no doubt changed paradigms in not only hip hop but in pop culture in general. In “Mercy”,  4 strong rappers sort of competing with each other verse after verse, each able to hold it out on their own. 

Just recently a debate started among hip-hop artists on who they think had the best verse, 8 years after the song was released after 2chainz brought it back up. Obviously, every artist gave their all and each gave us all strong (and funny) lines like 2 Chainz line “coupe the colour of mayonnaise” (complex).  

Take a listen to the song and comment who you think had the best verse?

Producers: Mike Dean, Mike Will Made it, Kanye West, Hudson Mohawke 

8. “If you know you know”- Pusha T

It may be too soon to say, but “If you know you know” by Daytona might go down as a classic with the way it tastefully went back to the roots of hip hop. Not only is the song a bass-heavy banger, but the lyrics of the song paints a story that goes in-depth on the complex experiences that come with being in the drug-dealing world (Flypaper). 

The track borrows many of the factors that everyone loved from Kanye West’s classic “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy”. The lyrics of the song are strong, the bass amplifies perfectly in speakers combined with a beat that shows nothing but passion(flypaper). 

Producer: Kanye West 

9. “Day and Night”- Kid Cudi

Back when MTV music was THE most important platform for music, I remember first hearing this song on the top 10 list and falling in love with it. The song truly planted the seeds for a shift in popular hip hop artists at the time and is still influential to this day.

Not to mention the music video that perfectly fit with the vibe of the song with the neat animation transitions that helped bring Kid Kudi’s vision into reality. 

The beat of the song had a certain magic to it that is so recognizable and unique. 

 Kid Cudi poured his emotions on the song and it eventually became a voice for youth making their way through the world and going through the same thing.

Producer: Dot da genius 

10. “ Heartless”- Kanye West

It is clear Kanye West’s whole 808 album was extremely influential to hip hop artists to this day. It was a blueprint to many popular artists to this day such as Drake, Kid Cudi, Travis Scott, Future, and more. “Heartless” remains a nostalgic banger for many hip hop listeners and was an outlet for the emotional vulnerability which was new to rap at the time (Pitchfork). 

The song included an innovative auto-tune on his vocals which was really just an extension of the song’s beautiful 808s beat. ”Heartless” included many instruments that were unfamiliar in rap songs such as pianos, gospel, ad-libs with production that made it all sound unworldly. Read more about how this album substantially changed hip hop on PitchFork. 

Producer- Kanye West, No I.D

Conclusion

It is amazing to take the time and look back at the hip hop industry and see how many innovative and unique songs revolutionized pop culture around the world! The genre is truly more diverse than it is made out to be and is just going to keep on growing. 

What were your favourite songs listed, and is there any song mentioned that you don’t agree with? Comment below!

By Itman Hassan

---

If you need further help creating your own music, we offer audio production services that will help you elevate your sound and bring your song to life!

We look forward to being a part of your success.

Contact us here to get started.

15 Video Production Tips to Enhance Quality and Gain Views

One important advantage that people have when marketing is the use of video content. And what’s crazy is that by the end of the year, video content will make up almost 3 quarters of everything on the internet.

The challenge is getting people to stay and watch those videos. It becomes increasingly harder the longer your video is. Videos nowadays don’t just excel with the information being provided. People are judging other aspects as well, including style, colour, sound, etc. In a nutshell, your content needs to be memorable.

Below we’ve come up with 15 tips to boost your production quality, and keep people watching for longer!

1. Pre-production Advice

Being prepared for your shoots is crucial. Oftentimes, people show up to a shoot unorganized and this may result in your final product looking unprofessional. However, if you’re prepared and focused, your attention can be focused on more important things rather than minor things that could have been sorted out beforehand.

Don’t waste time figuring out angles. Come to your shoot with the final product in mind, it will make things flow much easier.

2. Originality

Your video idea should be different than anything out there already. Don’t be a copycat. Something easy that you can do is type in keyword searches and find out what’s popular. Then, before moving ahead with your idea, make sure there isn’t another video that already did what you have in mind. Ideas can be similar, but ultimately the videos should be completely different.

3. Planning

Before you start filming, start storyboarding! A storyboard is an awesome tool that allows you to plan out each shot so that you go to your shoot with a solid plan in mind. Always make sure you have extra footage so that when you start the editing process, if some shots look shaky or blurry, you have others to fall back on.

4. Selection is Key

Having high standards is a good thing. Don’t just let anyone off the street be in your video. Hold auditions or do something where you can see if your actors have what it takes to make your video shine. You don’t want to choose anyone who looks uncomfortable in front of the camera, or someone who can’t memorize their lines. Having good actors will make the process 10x easier in the long run.

5. Considering the Set

Despite what you may think, your audience is paying close attention to your set. Don’t try to make one place look like another. For example, don’t try to make your kitchen look like an office. Plan ahead so that you can have an actual office to shoot in. The more realistic, the better your footage will come out.

6. Quality of Sound

Bad sound quality can make or break your production. Make sure to use proper microphones depending on your situation. If you’re outside and it’s windy, consider a boom mic with the sock cover on top to cut out the wind noise. If your actors are talking, consider using lavalier mics. Bad sound quality is unprofessional, and an easy thing to fix.

7. Lighting Setup

Under or overexposed footage looks trashy. Depending on your situation, you may need a different lighting setup so consider this when you’re planning it out. If you have someone on screen talking, you might want to use a 3-point lighting setup to remove any unwanted shadows. Proper lighting can greatly enhance your final product.

8. Tripod Use

Shaky footage is extremely unprofessional. Consider a tripod or gimbal to stabilize your camera when shooting. ‘Nuff said.

9. Focus

Having a really sharp focus on your camera is important. You don’t want to finish your shoot, and then while editing you notice everything is out of focus. Consider locking your exposure as well, and making sure to keep a nice white balance so all of your footage looks even and you don’t have to spend lots of time in post-production editing the colour.

10. Rule of Thirds

If you don’t know what the Rule of Thirds is, basically your shot is split up by 3 horizontal and 3 vertical lines. When you frame your actors or subjects, consider putting them off to the side to create the illusion of movement. It makes your shots much more interesting to look at.

11. Emotional Response

The overall structure and pacing of your video dictates the emotional response you will get from your viewers. If the purpose of your video is to create a feeling of guilt in your viewers for example, then you don’t want something too fast paced. You want something a little more slow, with proper music to back it up.

12. B-roll

Having b-roll that compliments your overall video theme is important. In case you ran out of time and didn’t film it yourself, you can easily find stock footage on websites like Shutterstock. Instead of having lots of cuts in your video, you can replace it with b-roll and it will look a lot better.

13. Music

Having light background music can elevate any project. It provides emotion, and can cover up any sounds you might have accidentally picked up. You can find royalty free music on sites like Artlist, but consider paying for your music because royalty free music sometimes doesn’t have the quality you’re looking for.

14. Video Text

When choosing a font, try to pick something simple, classy, and sharp. Also try using animations to keep your viewers engaged. Your text should be easy to read and should enhance the overall quality of your work.

15. Platform Optimization

Depending on what platform you’re using to publish your video, you will want to be mindful when editing. For example, if your video is for TikTok, you’re only allotted 60 seconds so you want the most eye-catching and thought-provoking content at the beginning to keep your viewers engaged. Know what platform requires what, and you’re already on your way to smart editing!

- By Jessika Molnar

If you need further help creating your own marketing videos, we offer video production services that will help you elevate your brand!

We look forward to being a part of your success. Contact us here to get started.