How TikTok Is Rewriting the Rules for Emerging Artists

TikTok is revolutionizing the music industry, giving artists from all walks of life opportunities to rise to fame through authentic connections with their fans. Gen Z artist Gigi Perez, who self-published her music on TikTok after dropping out of college, became a viral sensation with "Sometimes (Backwood)," amassing 18 million streams and reaching Billboard #22. Meanwhile, Malcolm Todd, an L.A.-based singer-songwriter, used TikTok to build a devoted following and foster deep connections with his fans through relatable and heartfelt music, showcasing how the platform can serve both as a space for creation and genuine community building.