How to Create Viral Music Content on TikTok
TikTok has revolutionized the music industry, turning unknown musicians into global sensations almost overnight. The artists like Lil Nas X, Doja Cat, Ava Max, and many more absolutely blow up their streaming and social media followings, all thanks to being discovered on TikTok.
With its unique algorithm and highly engaged user base, it offers independent artists the opportunity to reach millions of new fans and go viral. This is why TikTok needs to be a major part of your music marketing strategy.
In this article, we’ll dive into practical strategies you can use to create viral music content on TikTok and grow your music career.
Understanding TikTok’s Algorithm
Why has TikTok been such an influential platform for upcoming artists? This is because most of the content posted on the platform is actually based around MUSIC.
TikTok users create short videos (commonly around 15 seconds), backed with an audio snippet (usually a song’s verse or hook).
The “For You Page” (FYP) on TikTok is different from other platforms. It shows content to users based on their watch time, interactions (likes, shares, comments), and trending topics rather than just their following list. The more engaging your content is, the more likely it will appear on the FYP of millions.
Key Factors That Influence TikTok’s Algorithm:
Watch Time: The longer users watch your video, the more likely it is to be recommended.
Engagement: Likes, shares, comments, and follows are key engagement factors to boosting your video’s reach.
Trending Topics: The more trending sounds and hashtags you use, the more likely your content is to be shown to others.
Create Authentic and Engaging Content That Showcases Your Music
The best way to promote your music on TikTok is to create content that is engaging, authentic, and makes people want to interact with it.
Engaging Content Ideas for Music Creators:
Behind-the-scenes: Show the process of creating your music, from writing lyrics to recording in the studio.
Teasers: Tease your fans by posting snippets of unreleased tracks.
Lyric Videos: Share videos that highlight the lyrics of your song, especially if the lyrics are relatable or catchy enough for TikTok’s users to create their own video content around it.
Cover Versions: Cover songs are a great way of boosting the exposure of your music, by leveraging songs which are already fan-favourites.
Experiment with formats to find what resonates with your audience.
Leverage TikTok’s Trends and Hashtags
The platform now has over 1 billion active users globally, so it’s no surprise that trending on TikTok can do huge things for your music career.
Hashtags and trending sounds play a crucial role in discoverability. Use niche-specific hashtags alongside popular ones to strike a balance. For example, combining #IndieRockMusic with trending hashtags like #foryou can maximize your reach.
Monitor trends regularly to ensure your content is relevant. A useful tool to find out what's currently hot on TikTok is the #TrendAlert page. Search #TrendAlert in your TikTok search bar to find all of the latest and most popular trends that are popping off.
Try to jump on trends before they peak. The sooner you adopt a trend, the more visibility you gain.
How to Use TikTok’s Sound Library
You can’t go viral on TikTok without putting your music on the platform. Upload your tracks to TikTok’s sound library to make it available for others to use.
Adapt your music to existing trends, creating videos with your own sound on viral topics. Study your track and narrow down the 15 seconds that have the most "TikTok virility potential."
Join Trends Using Popular Sounds
Using trending sounds is also a great way to attract new audiences. When a popular sound is trending, create engaging content that incorporates it. This can boost your channel’s visibility, drawing new visitors to your profile where they can discover your original music.
Collaborate with Other Content Creators
Collaboration is a powerful tool for growing your audience. Partnering with TikTok influencers or other music creators who match your style can expose your music to new fans.
To find collaborators, search TikTok or use a specialized platform like input.fm to connect with artists and music industry professionals. input.fm is designed specifically for the music community to streamline networking and help indie musicians to grow their music career.
Not sure how to kickstart collaborations? Discover these top Networking Strategies for Independent Musicians.
Duet on TikTok to Collaborate
Duets are another great way to reach new fanbases on TikTok. You could collaborate with another musician to help each other reach new listeners, or react to a popular influencer's videos in the hope that more people will see your profile and give you a follow.
To post a duet video, just hit the Share icon and then the Duet button.
Engage with Your Audience
The more you interact with your followers and fans, the more likely they are to support your music.
Respond to comments and use audience feedback to create follow-up content. This interaction not only increases engagement but also helps build a loyal fan base.
TikTok’s live sessions are another fantastic way to connect with your followers. Perform live, answer questions, or even collaborate with your fans to foster a sense of community.
Consistency and Posting Schedule
Consistency is key when it comes to any social media success. Develop a posting schedule that keeps your content flowing without overwhelming your audience.
Aim for 3-5 TikTok videos per week to stay relevant.
With input.fm's calendar, you can create a consistent posting schedule complete with reminders. The platform’s shared access and task management features are especially helpful when working in a team. For example, you can share your calendar with your manager or band members, enabling everyone to collaborate and plan TikTok's posting together.
Use TikTok Analytics to Improve Performance
TikTok’s analytics dashboard provides valuable insights into your content’s performance.
To view the dashboard, simply head over to the "Creators tools" tab from your account settings. Then select "Analytics" and you'll get access to stats about your videos and channel performance.
Monitor metrics like views, engagement rates, and follower growth to identify what’s working and what isn’t, then refine your strategy accordingly. For example, if certain tracks perform better, focus on showcasing them more in your future posts.
input.fm also offers valuable analytics tools to track your career progress and help you adapt your marketing strategy accordingly.
Conclusion
Creating viral music content on TikTok requires a mix of creativity, consistency, and strategy. By understanding the platform’s algorithm, leveraging trends, and engaging with your audience, you can significantly grow your presence and connect with fans.
Ready to take your music career to the next level? Join input.fm to find collaborators, book gigs, and manage your career seamlessly.
