Who Are the Real Influencers of Social Media?

Aug 31

When Megan Thee Stallion released her latest single, “Thot Shit”, in mid-June, it was bound to be a hit on TikTok. The chorus is catchy, easy to remember and even offers clear instructions for her audience. Yet to many’s surprise, no dance had been created after its release. Instead, it became the butt of a TikTok experiment put on by Black creators on the platform to see whether the app would stay afloat without their influence.

Many users’ proposition had proved itself to be true once videos were released by other creators where they blatantly ignored the song’s instructions to put their hands on the knees and shake their butt.

Dating back to Jalaiah Harmon’s choreographed video to K Camp’s “Lottery (Renegade)”, Black TikTok creators knew how pivotal they are to viral trends on the app.

White TikTokers like Charli D’Amelio and Addison Rae have become the app’s top and third most followed creators. They gained fame by recreating dances choreographed by Black creators. And while they rose to the top of the apps algorithm, the Black creators who they built their careers off of went overlooked and uncredited.

Black creators are not only bringing attention to TikTok with their trendy dance moves, but also to the songs that they make their dances to. So, why are they the last to be considered for compensation for either?

We have seen repeatedly how topics and conversations generated by Black people online make their way offline and influence the world around us.

For years, companies have acknowledged the influence that Black Twitter has over every market—even causing some companies to shape their entire marketing strategies around Black Twitter and social media in general.

Black Twitter has been the driving force of the most successful businesses. It is at the forefront of cultural discussion and may be the reason you found your favorite show on Netflix or the song that is always playing on the radio.

Black people are pop culture.

When researchers look at Black Twitter, they often focus on the hashtag campaigns and the awareness that is brought to social justice issues. What rarely gets acknowledged is the community that is shared amongst Black people online and the overall influence that they have on Twitter and nearly every other social media platform.

Many realities would not exist without Black influence on social media.

Taylor Lauren Williams

Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, which is known as “The City of Good Neighbors”, Taylor has always had a good sense of community. She is passionate about her work. Her love for sharing knowledge is how she found her way into Journalism. She prides herself in making sure that people have accurate information because it aids in obtaining the best outcomes. In May of 2019, Taylor received a Bachelor’s degree from Canisius College in Journalism and Communications and minor studies in Sociology with a concentration in Child, Family, and Community Studies.

Taylor is currently pursuing dual Master’s degrees and licensing in Counseling. She will receive her Master’s degree and licensing in School Counseling in December 2024, followed by a Master’s degree and licensing in Mental Health Counseling in May 2025. These advanced studies reflect her dedication to fostering mental health and well-being in both educational and community settings.

Although she may seem quiet or shy upon first introduction, Taylor has a vibrancy that is undeniable once you're allowed a look within. She is observant and curious, and the passion behind her curiosities is what ensures her drive. As a mediator-type personality, Taylor is often trying to understand other people’s true feelings. She is creative and a risk-taker. She finds her own lane and when that one seems to look a bit over-saturated, she’ll begin setting the foundation down for a new one.

Authenticity is a cornerstone of Taylor’s character. She seeks opportunities for self-expression and remains true to herself in all endeavors. She values the differences among people while appreciating the commonalities they share. Open-minded yet loyal to her own values, Taylor navigates her world with integrity and insight.

Taylor’s efforts are aimed at sharing her situated knowledge and the extended insights of those she welcomes to her platform, providing valuable perspectives on various topics. As a future counselor, her traits of empathy, active listening, patience, and strong ethical values will undoubtedly enrich the lives of those she serves.

http://hautegreentea.com

Who Are the Real Influencers of Social Media?

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