TikTok undeniably plays a hand in today’s music industry, even testing its own music streaming service. The app’s influence is arguably increasing with its latest announcement: a partnership with Billboard to launch the official TikTok Billboard Top 50 Chart.
The weekly chart will consist of the most popular songs on TikTok in the U.S., and will be featured on both the app and Billboard.com. The metrics for this list include creations, video views, and user engagement. It’s a natural extension of Billboard’s long influential charts, first started all the way back in 1913.
“TikTok is already the world’s most powerful platform for music discovery and promotion, and each week our passionate community of music fans drives songs onto the Billboard charts,” said Ole Obermann, global head of music business development at TikTok, in a statement.
Billboard president Mike Van added, “We see a clear opportunity to recognize the way music discovery on TikTok is shaping popular culture and are proud to offer this tool to the industry, while offering brands a new way to engage with music fans at scale. You’re not no. 1 until you’re no. 1 on Billboard.”
Credit: TikTok / Billboard.
The first TikTok music chart sees Sexyy Red, Doja Cat and Taylor Swift winning the top three spots. Sexxy Red’s “SkeeYee” is currently No. 1. Other artists on the chart include Ice Spice, Charlie Wilson, and NLE Choppa.
To access the chart on TikTok, press on the round icon on the bottom corner of the screen within the app and then click “Music Charts” in the top right. You can also view the chart on Billboard’s site, where it’ll be released on Thursdays weekly.
