TikTok Made Me Do It: How Viral Songs Are Changing the Way We Sing (Why Vocal Training Matters)
- Kevin Lim
- Jan 27
- 4 min read
If you’ve spent any time on TikTok lately, you’ve probably noticed something: singing isn’t just for the shower anymore. It’s for the ‘For You’ page, the comments section, and the endless stream of viral challenges that make you think, “I couldn’t possible do that!” (Spoiler: You absolutely can, with a little help from a certified vocal coach and practise.)
TikTok has become a global stage for singers, aspiring artists, and even casual hummers. From lip-syncing to full-blown vocal performances, the app has revolutionised how we engage with music—and how we sing. But what does this mean for your voice? And how can you ride the wave of viral trends without losing your vocal chops? Let’s dive in.
The Rise of the 15-Second Star
TikTok has turned music into bite-sized, shareable moments. Songs like “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter or “Fortnight” by Taylor Swift dominate the platform, with users racing to create their own renditions. These snippets often highlight a song’s catchiest hook or most challenging vocal run, making them irresistible to singers.
But here’s the thing: singing a 15-second clip over and over isn’t the same as performing a full song. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and push your voice too hard, especially if you’re trying to hit those high notes or mimic a powerhouse vocalist.
Pro Tip: If you’re practicing a viral song, warm up first! Just like you wouldn’t run a marathon without stretching, you shouldn’t belt out Adele's “All I Ask” without prepping your vocal cords.
The Good, the Bad, and the Belty
TikTok trends can be a double-edged sword for singers. On one hand, they’re a fantastic way to discover new music, experiment with different styles, and connect with a global community of music lovers. On the other hand, they can encourage bad habits, like straining to hit notes outside your range or over-singing to stand out.
Take belting, for example. Belting is a vocal technique that lets you sing high notes with power and intensity—think Adele or Ariana Grande. It’s also a technique that can easily lead to vocal strain if done incorrectly. TikTok challenges often encourage singers to belt their hearts out, but without proper technique, you could end up with a hoarse voice and a bruised ego.
Pro Tip: If you’re tackling a belty TikTok trend, focus on accurate vocal cord closure and avoid pushing too hard. And if it hurts, stop! Your voice is your instrument, and it deserves care.
The Lip-Sync Effect
Let’s be real: not every TikTok is a vocal masterpiece. Many users rely on lip-syncing to participate in trends, which may be a fun and creative way to engage with music. But if you’re a singer, don’t let lip-syncing become a crutch.
Lip-syncing can be a helpful tool for practicing performance skills, like facial expressions and stage presence. However, it’s no substitute for actual singing. If you want to improve your voice, you need to use your voice.
Pro Tip: While I don't ever recommend lip-syncing (as it's easy to become reliant on it, plus it's inauthentic), if you really want to, then only use as a stepping stone, not a stopping point. Once you’ve nailed the performance aspect, sing the song live—you might surprise yourself!
How to Use TikTok Trends to Your Advantage as a Singer
So, how can you make TikTok work for you as a singer? Here are a few tips:
Learn from the Pros: Watch how professional singers tackle viral trends. Pay attention to their technique, phrasing, and emotional delivery.
Make It Your Own: Don’t just copy what everyone else is doing. Put your own spin on the trend to showcase your unique voice.
Practice Smart: Use TikTok trends as a way to practice specific skills, like vocal cord coordination control, mix voice, dynamics, or vocal runs.
Stay Vocal-Healthy: Don’t sacrifice your vocal health for likes. If a trend feels too challenging, modify it to suit your voice.
The Bigger Picture: TikTok and the Future of Singing
TikTok isn’t just changing how we sing—it’s changing how we think about singing. The app has democratised music, giving everyday people a platform to share their voices and connect with others. It’s also reshaping the music industry, with record labels scouting talent directly from the app.
But here’s the catch: while TikTok can launch careers, it’s not a substitute for proper vocal training. Even the most viral singers rely on technique, practice, and coaching to hone their craft.
Ready to Elevate Your Singing with Singing Lessons?
If TikTok has inspired you to step up your singing game, you’re in the right place. At The Vocal Experiment, we’re all about helping singers like you unlock their full potential. Whether you’re belting out viral hits or working on your original sound, we’ve got the tools and expertise to guide you every step of the way.
Why not take the next step? Join us for in-person or online singing lessons and let’s turn those TikTok dreams into reality. Your voice is unique, and with the right training, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.
Comments