Discover the secrets behind the world’s most successful viral videos, as we riffle through the archives of nostalgic classics, catch up on the latest TikTok sensations, and learn how to craft content that captures attention globally
The world of today is more connected now than it has been at any other time in history. For anyone hoping to reach global audiences, whether an influencer, brand, or broadcaster, going viral is the ultimate goal. Yet, achieving virality often seems like capturing lightning in a bottle.
With this in mind, this blog will try to unlock that magic formula of what exactly makes a video viral. Exploring the evolution of viral videos, from the early days of the internet to the TikTok revolution, we will delve into this intriguing world of instant fame.
The Early Days of Getting Views
Long before TikTok made it as easy as pie for videos to explode into the global zeitgeist, viral content relied on a simpler equation: humour, relatability, and an element of surprise. Throwing it back to “Charlie Bit My Finger,” where a toddler's innocent reaction quickly became a worldwide meme, or the inexplicably catchy “Crazy Frog” tune, which annoyed some but entertained millions.
Videos like “Baby Shark,” which began as a simple children’s song, were another example that rode the wave of catchy melodies and repetitive hooks to an impressive 13 billion views on YouTube. Each of these well-known hits succeeded because they were simple, easy to share, and resonated emotionally with diverse audiences.
TikTok Revolution: The Modern Era of Virality
The landscape of viral videos has dramatically changed recently with the rise of TikTok. The platform’s “For You Page” algorithm has transformed the way content spreads, making virality more accessible but also more unpredictable. Unlike traditional platforms where users actively search for content, TikTok serves videos directly to viewers based on behaviour patterns, enabling unknown creators to gain overnight fame.
Recent viral trends on TikTok, like dancing challenges (remember the “Renegade” or “Savage Love” crazes?) or pranks, rely heavily on user participation. The platform encourages imitation and interaction, creating a chain reaction of shares and engagements that propels content to viral status.
The Key Cornerstones of Achieving Internet Fame
Achieving internet fame hinges on tapping into people’s psyches and understanding what they like to see and can resonate with. Viral videos elicit strong emotions, whether it be humour, awe, empathy, or even outrage, and these videos that can make viewers feel something are more likely to be shared.
Content that is relatable and taps into universal human experiences or popular cultural moments often also goes viral. The amount of TikTok trends that are recreated by people across the globe showcases how humans seem to love content they can relate to and isn’t out of the reach of a normal person.
The ease with which content can be shared across platforms is crucial as well and videos that are short, snappy, and easy to consume tend to do better, especially in an age of diminishing attention spans. Therefore it can be beneficial to align content with current events, holidays, or trending topics that can increase its chances of going viral. Catchphrases, dance moves, or memes can also serve as triggers that prompt users to engage.
The Science Behind Going Viral
To make a video go viral, creators often use a combination of strategic elements. Viral success is not just a matter of chance; it involves careful planning, audience understanding, and content that compels people to share.
For instance, the “Ice Bucket Challenge” didn’t just go viral because it was fun; it tapped into social motivation by aligning with a charitable cause. Similarly, emotional responses to content like Denys Karachevstev’s haunting cello performances in war-torn Ukraine show how powerful narratives can propel videos to viral status.
TikTok vs. YouTube: Different Roads to Virality
While TikTok’s algorithm prioritises engagement and immediacy, YouTube’s success hinges on longer content with sustained audience retention. Viral YouTube videos, like “Gangnam Style” or the “Puppyhood” series, offer value or entertainment that deeply engages viewers over a longer period, leading to sustained virality.
If you’re seeking to become an overnight internet sensation, it’s crucial to leverage trends by keeping an eye on popular hashtags, challenges, and themes to ensure your content feels current and culturally relevant. Understanding your audience is equally important and tailoring your content to fit the tastes and preferences of your target audience is essential for creating something that truly resonates. Ultimately, whether it’s a TikTok dance challenge or an emotionally powerful YouTube documentary, the key to success lies in creating engaging content that grabs attention and holds it.
The Future of Viral Videos
As social platforms evolve, the way videos go viral will no doubt continue to change. To stay ahead, creators must be agile, creative, and always in tune with what their audience finds share-worthy. The dream of going viral may still be a mix of luck and strategy, but with the right approach, any video has the potential to reach millions.
By understanding the elements that drive virality, content creators can craft videos that not only entertain but also capture the world’s attention, one view at a time.
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