Not only has the surge of TikTok’s influence significantly reshaped the way female artists are recognized and celebrated, but the rise of female musicians in mainstream media reflect a broader trend of empowerment and innovation in entertainment.
It’s 2024 and the Girls are
Girling: How TikTok is Killing
Gatekeeping in the Music Industry
Written by Anita Silva
2024 is proving to be a landmark year for female pop artists, with over ten major album releases in just the first half of the year, marking a transformative moment in the music industry. TikTok has played a crucial role in this shift, offering a powerful platform for artists to gain visibility and connect with audiences directly. The platform’s algorithmic promotion of catchy hooks and viral trends has allowed female pop stars to reach millions at unprecedented speeds. Given that audio and video are now the dominant media forms, it’s no surprise that music can go viral much faster today compared to the era of iPods, radios, and CDs.
Artists like Lizzo and PinkPantheress exemplify this shift. Their rapid rise to mainstream success on TikTok underscores the platform's unique ability to bypass traditional industry gatekeepers and propel talent directly into the spotlight. By leveraging TikTok’s features, these artists have sidestepped the need to impress top producers or network with industry insiders, democratizing music promotion and providing a crucial advantage for emerging female talent.
This shift is particularly significant for female musicians, who have historically faced gender biases and limited access to industry resources. TikTok’s influence facilitates a more level playing field, allowing female artists to challenge entrenched standards and gain the visibility and opportunities that were previously harder to attain. As a result, there has been a notable increase in support for non-performing women in the music and film industries. The number of female audio engineers and producers has grown by 7% over the past five years, and the number of female songwriters has risen by 5% from 2022 to 2023.
This upward trend not only reflects a broader shift towards gender equality but also highlights the expanding opportunities and recognition for women behind the scenes. As female artists continue to break barriers and redefine industry standards, their success contributes to a more inclusive and diverse landscape. The impact of their achievements extends beyond their own careers, inspiring greater participation and influence across all facets of the music and film industries. Thank you, ladies, for driving this progress and reshaping the entertainment world for the better.