This week, you should focus on getting your hands on the next book we will read, The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell. You can get any version or edition or format of the book.
Here is an online version:
https://istihbaratsahasi.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/the-tipping-point.pdf
You do not need to read it yet, but just start to browse around a bit.
BLOG ENTRY FOR WEEK TWELVE
Why do certain products, videos, or trends go "viral" while others simply go nowhere? Apparently, the most watched youtube video of all time is Enrique Iglesias' hit "Bailando," from 2014. It has 1.65 BILLION views. What makes a certain product, video, or trend go viral?
(PS Look at that, another search says the most all time hits on youtube is Gangham Style, with 2.81 BILLION hits...they just keep going!)
...Iglesias info from https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=most+watched+video+on+youtube+of+all+time
...Gangham info from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_most_viewed_YouTube_videos
I think that certain products, videos, and trends go viral because as society we don’t have anything better to do than to make anything popular or anyone famous. You don’t have to achieved nothing in life just set up a camera and look at what’s hot in today’s world I can guarantee you by the end of the week you will have thousands of views, if you can talk about a hot topic trust me you will be trending but if you don’t talk or do something that will have the people talking about it then you’re not going to be hot and nor trending that means you will not be remember and everyone will forget about you and whatever it was that you posted. It all depends how hungry you are to be popular and well known, because I can name a few people that became overnight sensations and out nowhere their fifteen minutes are up. But ultimately I think as society grows our generations is bound to think of something dumb and stupid that they can become famous for. Just acting dumb and doing random stuff can get you into the world that you’ve never expected, meaning posting a song or singing a song to the net that will recognize you as a talented singer, I think most of our artist were found on YouTube by other producers and look were they’re now rich and famous. It’s a privileged that as Americans we can do whatever we want in order to be famous and keep our trends going and making them viral all over the world.
ReplyDeleteYou made a good point and you are right there are times that you don't have to try hard and still become popular for something you posted online. This could be people who get hurt on videos or do dumb things that usually go viral most of the time.
DeleteClaudia exactly just look at the one girl that was at Dr. Phil's show the "cash me outside" girl I don't think society even thinks of the consequences that brings to these so call "famous people" another example I hate to bring this up but look at the Kardashians one tape and the whole family became famous. I honestly blame society and social media for putting dumb people on the net and making them famous.
DeleteJoaquin, I complete agree with everything you said! A great example is Justin Bieber. He posted videos on YouTube and got noticed through his videos.
Delete"...as society grows our generations is bound to think of something dumb and stupid that they can become famous for. Just acting dumb and doing random stuff can get you into the world that you’ve never expected".
DeleteIn response to that excerpt, I refer you to Flozell, as I mentioned in another blog, I watched this gal bathe in a bathtub full of milk and fruit loops,(((smh))). That wasn't funny, it was simply the "dumb and stupid to become famous for" that you mention.
I think products, videos, and trends go viral because it is something that catches someone's attention. It is fun to watch or fun to do. The more the video, product, trend catches someone's attention, then it will be shared by many other people. As it keeps getting shared the number of likes, or watches is increased. Some people really love the attention, and will do anything to be recognized as someone famous. Their goal might be to have the most likes or viewers. It doesn't have to be the brightest invention, but the silliest dance, moves, songs, or challenges on the internet will be enough for the person to have a viral product, trend, or video. After the video goes viral, most people want to then try out something that will be a hit on the internet and become famous.
ReplyDeleteThings usually go viral because people tend to like stuff and the more that it's repeated or been seen like a video are usually the ones to get out and go viral. Some can be disturbing things but people are what allow things to go viral.
DeleteYes totally agree!
DeleteEmily,
DeleteI think you came up with a good post. This is because your post was concise, and it was enjoyable. You also came up with a true fact that certain videos go viral, because they capture people’s attention. I also noticed that videos do not have to represent greatness, but they should make people interested in watching them. Viral videos contain a lot of entertainment, and they are fun for a lot of people to watch. Viral videos do not have to be long; they can also be short (about 5 to 30 seconds). I think American Dad, Harry Potter, Genius (1999), and a lot of American television shows and movies contain viral clips and full videos. I enjoy a lot of these videos, and I hope to watch them again in my spare time. I am a person who likes comedy, drama, and adventure. I enjoy British, American, and other European television shows and movies. I also like music as well. It would also be interesting to know what videos you like to watch.
Roshaan S.
Sharing on social media is definitely the most effective way a video or product will become viral.
DeleteThings going viral have been happening long before going viral was coined; The Hula Hoop, the Skateboard, the mood ring, the pet rock, studded bel bottom jeans, parachute pants, selfie-sticks, the famous National Geographic cover pic, the "you can call me Ray" phrase -comedic bit turned into a commercial and then a hit song-, the Joe Isuzu commercial of the 80’s becoming so popular it propelled actor David Leisure into a spot on the sitcom 'Empty Nest', are a few of the many examples.
ReplyDeleteIn most cases, things going viral are like one-hit-wonders in that they're here today and gone tomorrow, things happen in the blink of an eye. I don’t see 99.999% of what goes viral, lol.
The question is why do video songs like Gangham Style or hits like "Bailando" -I am not among the 1.65 billion viewers- are popular, and other videos and fad items never see popularity, stardom, or the light of day?
I think the answer why is multi-faceted but also interconnected, too. I believe it is a matter of luck, timing, paying your dues, preparation, having the right tools, knowing the right people, and being in the right place at the right time, e.g. the stars being perfectly aligned.
The funny thing, though, is what we -the public- call an overnight success might be an individual that worked on many projects for many years prior, but this one project/video/gadget happens to be the lucky one making him/her an ‘overnight success’. There are also those ‘lightening-in-a-bottle’ videos that are just damn good for whatever reason; they touch and affect so many in the same way because of his/her shared vision/creation, though unique, is also one easily identified with and easy to understand.
I agree Scott things have been going viral for along time. For example fashion, fashion has changed over time and it's what people do it can simply go from clothes you wear to kid toys. Kid toys become popular as well and then everyone has it.
DeleteI was never for that sort of thing for some reason, Just like the Pokemom Go app that was all the rage for about 3 weeks last summer.
DeleteHi Scott,
DeleteI agree things in trend go away and come back in a blink of an eye.
Fashion probably is the most interesting to observe we bring back the oldies all the time. For example, poka dots were very popular again for a while.
I think overall we are both visual creatures and creatures of habit.
Monkey see, monkey do?
You are right about “going viral before going viral.” I think what happens is that viral is a new word to express something becoming popular. And sadly, anything that has to do with electronics becomes popular.
DeleteI agree Scott, luck and timing have huge impact on views and the degree to which they go viral.
DeleteClaudia and Melissa, you're right, the fashion industry is notorious for reviving out-of-fashion clothing lines and styles, e.g. the oldies.
DeleteMarisol; You aer right that as we develop technology further electronics are more frequently attached/connected to the latest craze in some say, shape, or form. If it's Pokémon Go, you use your smartphone. If it is a video, you use your phone/tablet/laptop/pc (all electronics).
When we had our in-class essay, I chose the topic on whether or not electronics and technology humanizes or dehumanizes us, and made a strong case that it dehumanizes us.
Nich; I have seen things that I have no idea why they go viral. There was a gal by the name Flozell, she took a bath in bathtub full of fruit loops and milk, yes eating fruit loops while acting a fool. All the while watching and thinking "This is funny/popular/all the rage??"
Yes, Pokemon Go became very popular last year, I didn't play it though, and I forgot all about it until now that you mention it. And I think the rest forgot about it as well.
DeleteMarisol; SEE how fast fads and things going viral come and go? The blink of an eye, and you've just missed it, lol. Like I said, I probably don't see or know about 99.999% of what "goes viral", lol.
DeleteI think there are many factors that make a video go viral such as the type of video that is portrayed and the viewers. There are many types of viral videos such as comedy sketches, crazy accidents, violence, music, dance, celebrities, sports, etc. Some things that go viral usually have a very catchy tune with a distinct character. The Gangnam Style video on YouTube is a notable example of a viral video because it has many characteristics to appeal to a large mass. The audience is another factor that plays a huge part in the creation of a viral video because they are the people putting views on the video. Something that may have contributed to the amount of views of Gangnam Style is the fact that there was a dance incorporated into the song, making is appeal to more people. The video was also comical yet there was enough entertainment to keep people watching. The video was also safe for children to watch, which means the video appealed to a much larger mass. In this day, I believe viral videos are like memes because they tend to come and go. People all over the internet are making new material and older memes become replaced. Technology has made it possible for anyone to view anything on the web. Viral videos also have the help to be reproduced on other websites such as Facebook or Instagram and the various modes of sharing a video plays a critical role in creating a viral video.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about Gangnam style. Songs that are catchy and appeal to a large mass of people have a strong chance of going viral. The song the macarena also is similar in that aspect. Sporting events are a great place to see these songs still played today. Viral videos are dependent on Facebook and Instagram for mainstream success. As long as there are viral videos or memes people will put Rick Astley never gonna give you up somewhere on the internet.
DeleteI never saw the video, but what appealed to people also was appealing to many companies, too, as I saw a few commercials using the sang. One that comes to mind was for pistachios.
DeleteHaha ya I remember that pistachio commercial!
DeleteI think that you are absolutely correct when you say it is about the viewers. We are the ones that make the videos viral and decide to view the video and continue to share it. The audience is crucial.
DeleteI think that certain products, videos, or trends go viral while others simply go nowhere because there are people who make products and if that famous person is popular its usually going to turnout to be a huge product. As for videos, usually the videos that are popular are the music videos. People enjoy watching their favorite singers sing and usually the videos become popular. Some are not that popular cause it could be that the song isn't’t popular or because the music video was not that great. I have seen some videos that were boring and not that great. Products, videos, or trends can go viral by simply a lot of people watching or doing something that everyone is doing. Like for example, Uggs were a huge thing a couple years ago in the winter and now its not that popular its not a big deal. It used to be where everyone had to have them now it just has died out. I guess things hit a tipping point and then just go away after everyone has it or its not popular any more. Trends can be fashion styles, when people see someone famous wear something that they think looks cool everyone will start to do the same thing. This goes for everyone guys and girls. It is strange how it works but that is how it is. There is always something different or new coming out every year. Here in Porterville we have these kids who love being on bikes. The brand of the bike I believe are “Fixies” these bikes are a big think right now are very popular. You always see a big crowd of boys or girls riding there bikes around town. People are what make these products, videos, or trends go viral.
ReplyDeleteClaudia, I do remember the Uggs,they are so expensive! Remember that blog we did about if we are making our own decisions? Trends, advertising, popularity, etc., its something like that.
DeleteThey are telling us what to wear, and what products to pick. Then people believes that they are in control of their decisions.
Claudia,
Deleteyou are right we are the ones who make things go viral and after we all have that product we tend to move on, its like the more we have the more we want and companies are always willing to offer new trends.
ReplyDeleteI believe that certain products, videos, or trends go viral because all human behavior is learned. As individuals, we all want to be doing what everyone else is doing because we do not want to be the odd ones out of the certain situation that is trendy. We learn and adapt to what everyone else is doing to “fit in” society. We as humans are what make such certain thing (product, video, or trend) go viral by the amount of attention we give to it. For example, trends that do not go viral are usually the ones that no one paid attention to or liked. In order for a product or trend go viral it must be catchy or easy of individuals to automatically invest their attention into. Also, I believe that another thing that makes something go viral is word of mouth by another individual. Positive and negative feedback about a certain situation can be beneficial or other times harmful for the trend. For instance, I was not a big fan of Amazon until a friend of mine told me about all the great benefits about it. Now, I buy everything on Amazon. Another example, make-up artist on Instagram are making a living by posting videos about the make-up products they use and get tons of likes. Individuals follow them and buy the products they advertise because they claimed to be great. I bet if such make-up artist did not receive as much likes, individuals would not buy such products. Again, we learn and do what others are doing because we are humans and want to be doing what everyone else is doing.
You are right Melissa, sometimes things that make it vital is word of mouth by other. it could be good or bad, depending on the intention of the individuals.
DeleteMelissa, I agreed with you when u stated that when we see everyone doing something we all want to do it and that right not only are we hurting ourselves but we are also hurting our wallets in such a big way.
DeleteMelissa, I agree with you that many people don't like to be the odd ones and want to fit in. Also, some of those make-up artist get sent products to use purposely to advertise for them.
DeleteOn my opinion, things, videos, places, or people become popular because of good advertising, that’s all. It all depends how it is presented to the audience, the right language, stimulating visuals, the right timing, and how good in consistence it’s the product. Let’s say that the cook of the new restaurant makes the greatest dishes. Of course, people is going to talk about, and will recommend it to their friends, and the restaurant is going to become very popular in the area because everyone gets satisfied. But what if later they have a new cook, someone with less delicious teste? The restaurant is going down. Same with singers like Pitbull, JLO, or Justin Bieber, they are doing pretty good right now. What will happen when they stop working as hard as they are doing now, or when their songs become less catchy? Sometimes things that become very popular, will continue to be popular because there is always a new version of it. Think about Apple, they started with the little iPod, then the nano, eventually the iPhone 3, then the 4, 4s, and so on until now with the newest iPhone 8 I guess. It has been a long time since I stopped following on the new products. They were upgrading faster than me becoming familiar with the previous version.
ReplyDeleteAdvertising a video is a popular way of distributing it. Also, when companies and corporations start backing up these videos, it seems like a snowball effect and it keeps getting bigger and more popular.
DeleteThe iPhone is a great example of that social currency I mentioned on my post. Most people think if they don't have the latest thing out, they're not up to date, which I believe is ridiculous!
DeleteI know. Actually one of my co-workers has a new smart phone, i think its the Iphone. She said that there is not a headphones' port, and that she has to buy new wireless headphones if she want to listed to her music.
DeleteI think one of the main things that causes a product to go viral has a lot to do with our society, how it has changed significantly throughout the years. Before, it was difficult for a video to go viral and when it went viral, it was something serious. Now, the videos that usually go viral are causing people laughter even if the person in the video is in pain. I think some of the main reason a video goes viral has to do with music, the content has to tie into laughing, causing the person pain, or dancing. I think a great example of dancing would be the Gangham style video. The people would watch that video to see how the people were dancing and to learn those dance moves. When a person likes a video, they share it and that causes their friends to see it. Most likely one friends will also share it continuing the chain causing the video to go viral. We have seen a lot of videos go viral recently. Some people have been making silly videos in attempts to make the video go viral just to have attention. Since most people that come out in the viral video go to shows like Ellen and get free stuff, they want to go viral. I think through Facebook and YouTube, people are able to put out their video so the people can see it. For the most part, it will somehow end up on Facebook and from there, its just history.
ReplyDeleteI do agree with you that technology definitely has played a huge role in the way things are spread around now. Much easier than say 30 years ago.
DeleteHi Bianca, I agree with people seeing the video, sharing it, and it continues in a chain. I also agree that more silly videos go viral than serious videos.
DeleteHi Christian, and yes. Now people have easier access to use technology to make these videos.
DeleteHi Emily, and yes it increases the number of views.
DeleteI believe the certain products, videos, or trends go viral for two reasons. One of the reasons is simply the advertising that goes into it. Simply put, money makes the world go round. If a certain product has so much money put into it to back it up and to ensure people know about it, then its bound to go viral at any time. Money makes these videos and products and what is able to ensure their product is heard everywhere. The second reason I believe these things go viral has to be our society in general. Our society over the years has become one of the most gullible societies ever. Everything we hear or see on tv or advertisements, we believe it to be true almost immediately. Such diets go viral because the person really believes they can "lose weight in 7 days just by taking this pill and not doing anything else". To me it is all just user preferences on whether something goes viral or not. In other words, if you like something and something interests you, than you have a reason to like it. However, don't like something or pretend to like something just because everyone around you likes it. Stand out from the crowd.
ReplyDeleteChristian, I totally agree with you about the money! It will also make the people famous and cause them to make a good amount of money.
DeleteChristian, I agree money can buy many things and with money they can publicize anything to go viral.
DeleteChristian,
DeleteI agree money is probably the biggest factor, money equals power to do as you please.
I totally agree with your last two comments. People should be theirselves and not let pressure of others dictate the choices they make.
DeleteI believe certain products, videos, or trends go viral because society today spends countless hours on the internet searching for ways to entertain themselves. All it takes is a single "share" for a video or product to travel all over the web and it never fails to become viral. I think the main reason behind videos or products becoming viral is the content itself. We tend to build connections with the videos we watch or the products we see because of what they contain. For instance, the Erique Iglesias video is catchy and has a contagious rhythm that makes people want to dance. The Gangham Style song was also catchy but most importantly the dance moves made people watch it over and over because it was different from what we usually see. It always comes down to what the videos have to offer or how they appeal to us. Some can make us laugh so we will share it to make others laugh, others make us cry therefore we share it so others can see that there are horrible things happening. It all depends on what people see in the video that might make them want to share it. We can even find videos that should not even be online because of how disturbing their content is yet people still manage to make them go viral. For instance, just recently there was a video of a 13 year old girl who was in the Dr. Phill show who said the words "catch me outside" in a unique slang. These words and video went viral all over world making the girl famous.There were also some remakes of the video as well as humorous images containing the phrase responding to different scenarios. Even though she became famous for the wrong reasons such as being disrespectful to her mother people didn't care, all they cared about was how funny the phrase was. With that said, when it comes down to it, videos will go viral because of how their content appeals to others, if people like it they will share it.
ReplyDeleteIt's unfortunate that people get famous for the wrong reasons, especially when other people see these videos are start acting the same way.
DeleteI agree, some videos go viral and make people famous. I think they go viral because it something that is unordinary for a person to do like that girl you mentioned. It catches peoples attention and it gives them something to talk about.
DeletePeople do like to imitate others, so some trends do become quite famous (or even infamous, as you said) once they began getting emulated around us, or even broadcasted.
DeleteHey Kimberly,
DeleteUnfortunately it happens all the time and those are the kind of role models young kids are looking at.
Neida,
Deleteyou are very right, people are always looking for unusual things that are happening and then they share it, I also think they do that because sometimes is hard to believe that someone who did wrong actually took the time to record themselves and post it.
Michael,
DeleteYes sadly some of those things are wrong and younger kids think is okay to do it!
Hi Deisy,
ReplyDeleteI think that you are right when you say that how the content appears to everyone else, and whether or not it is "catchy", is what causes something to go viral. I think we are all more alike than we think, and social media makes it easy to connect with people and share what we like, or think is mutually funny/sad/awful etc.
Nikki,
DeleteDefinitely, our generation is al about technology and whatever we find in social media!!
I agree that it definitely provides a way to link a lot of people
DeleteI didn't want to, because I personally do not like either one of those songs that had the most views on Youtube, but I watched the video "Bailando" by Enrique Iglesias just to see what all the fuss was about. I have to admit, I like the song a little bit more now having seen the video. I think that the reason this video, like so many others, go viral is because of the relatability of it. It is a catchy song, and in the video it looks like they're all having a great time. The dancing, the singing in the streets etc. is something that I think puts everyone in a good mood, and is an approachable idea. The way in which we can share videos and ideas with each other so quickly now, and even with Youtube suggesting videos that relate to what you have already looked up makes it so easy for something to become "viral". Overall, I think the whole notion of going viral just tells me that we are all more alike than we may think. What one person thinks is funny, or sad, or upsetting, is likely what most people think is funny, sad or upsetting. We find common ground in these posts or videos or pictures that go viral. It might not be the most personal way to connect with each other, but it is nonetheless a new way to connect to those who are near and far from us.
ReplyDeleteI agree, it has become a way for us to connect with others we wouldn't normally connect with in real life. This can be a good or bad thing, depending on the situation.
DeleteHi Nikki,
DeleteI agree the song "Bailando" by Enrique Iglesias is very catchy. Most of all, Bachata is very trendy at the moment and I think that is another reason why the video went viral. Overall, I agree with you Nikki we are more alike than we think we are.
Good point Kimberly, connecting with people who's opinions and choices are different from ours can definitely cause conflict at times! I didn't really think about it like that, but we can really see that effect with all of the political posts lately.
DeleteYour right Nikki, social media is the new way for people to communicate now a days. Also, it's true that people have a common like on things.
DeleteI think there are several reasons something can go viral. One society loves the internet, and secondly America as a society is in love with trying to make money fast any way possible. I am a big sports fan. How many of us have seen a Michael Jordan crying face meme somewhere on the internet? Simply because people have nothing better to do and can take a pleasure making someone laugh. I was watching the NBA playoffs the other night. The Memphis Grizzles coach David Fizdale following a bad loss to the San Antonio Spurs went viral for his post-game press conference. There are already t-shirts being sold that say "Take That For Data" because his outburst went viral. I think people become captivated with things that are against the norms. Sure, coaches outburst frequently following a loss but when it catches and goes viral it will be in our minds forever, like Jim Mora Sr. Saying "playoffs whose talking about playoffs" years ago. I think Gangnam Style increased in popularity so fast because it was different than what we are accustomed to seeing in America. The song itself had a good beat and a catchy lyric. Lots of people posted videos online of themselves imitating the dance to the song, and it was even played in stadiums and colleges campuses all over the country. I will also agree with others that a celebrity or star can also help make something go viral. I'm sure if you look at sales of Papa John's pizza after adding Peyton Manning and JJ Watt to their commercials frequently they will show a rise over that period. People are more frequently going to consume a product they can identify to a star or celebrity they like. I also think with everyone being able to record things with their phone has increased the probability of something being filmed that can go viral. When you think of things that don't go viral or catch on a few things come to mind. Maybe the right audience didn't see it or wrong place wrong time. In 1997 Palm Pilots came out which you could put all your data in and use like how everyone uses a cellphone today. The palm pilot didn't make phone calls though so it didn't catch on like how the iPhone has.
ReplyDeleteSean you are right. What is against the norms makes a lot of people interested. I do not understand how people stops to watch and record videos of child or animal abuse for example. Why they don't instead do something to stop it? And yeah, the video goes viral.
DeleteSean,
DeleteThat is so true our society is in love with the internet and what it contains we tend to ignore everything around because we are always too busy with social media and stuff, all it takes is single share for something to go all over the place.
Certain products, videos, or trends go viral because society these days spend so much amount of their time on social media. It is a lot easier now for a video to be put in front of you without even having to search for it because someone starts sharing it and before you know it, its increases the number of views and therefore becomes viral. I find that it becomes viral when people tend to base it off on the amount of views it has. If it looks like it has a good amount of views it will cause them to open it up simply out of curiosity because there are so many people who have seen that certain video, product, etc. Also, for an individual to take that extra step to share it depends on what is shown. If it is relatable to the viewer whether it be in a positive or negative way that itself can be good enough for them to hit the "share" button. The Enrique Iglesias video was an instant hit because it brought different cultures around the world together and they were able to relate to this video from the lyrics, the kinds of dancers, the type of moves that were brought out, and the overall up beat of the music causing many to enjoy want to dance.
ReplyDeleteI would definitely have to agree with you. I think people are so hooked to the internet and social media that if other people have watched the video, then everyone becomes obsessed with it.
DeleteHi Ariana,
DeleteI agree with the culture part. They were united by the universal language of music and dance.
It is also true that so many people spend their time in social media. It is how we are all connected.
I think there are several factors that explain why a video or product goes viral. Most of the time, it is something that makes people laugh or is ‘cute’ in some way. I have not seen very many viral videos that have a serious message or thoughtful idea. I believe this began because people were tired of all the tragic situations the media portrays and wanted a distraction of some sort. However, I think it has gotten to the point where hardly anyone is focusing on the real issues at hand. Social media makes it so easy to share these things we find interesting with people we know. Once one person likes or shares it, two of their friends do it as well, and so on. People spend so much of their time on social media and online, they are bound to find something they find interesting and want to share it with others. Also, it has become a business to create viral videos. Depending on the amount of views or shares, video creators can make upwards of a thousand dollars and find themselves on shows like Ellen.
ReplyDeleteI think you have a good point in that these things that are funny create a small dose of happiness to people. It is rare to see something more deep and meaningful.
DeleteHi Kimberly,
DeleteI agree that these "viral" videos distract from the real issues. Some videos go viral for all the wrong reasons and we as a society are the ones fueling that.
I agree that videos go viral because they make people laugh. For instance, the video of aint no body got time for that, got viral because it was funny and made people laugh.
DeleteCertain product go viral simply because a large amount of people are talking about it at the same time. Usually amongst my friend group, we all catch onto something that we all find pretty something, but it usually starts with one or two people who like it. As soon as we spread that to even one person, they will spread it to another group of people (their friends outside of our little friend group), and they'll spread it around, and so on, and so on. Sometimes, however, it only takes the right person to spread it around in order for it to become instantly popular and spread around like a wildfire. For the most part, promotions are a good chunk of certain trends becoming memetic, but it always starts somewhere amongst the people who talk about it amongst themselves. Once it becomes recognizable everywhere, it's much easier to either become open about your approval of the trend, or perhaps start to trail away from it. Usually the cycle shall repeat, because so long as we pass something through word of mouth, it becomes very hard to stop unless there's some sort of authority figure to suppress it. Even then, sometimes it doesn't take long for something to start from there as well.
ReplyDeleteMichael,
DeleteI think you came up with a good post. This is because you came up with a true statement, that a product goes viral, when people spread fascinating news at an amazing rate. It is also interesting that popularity appears in all kinds of forms. The forms of popularity include the following characteristics: delicious tastes, preferences, negative news, comedies, innovations, and great selling skills. These characteristics provide people with greater insights and memories, so that they will choose the best products for them. Shark Tank, British and American movies, game show episodes, video games, and other forms of entertainment draw people into suspense. Suspense as a whole makes people interested in accessing and buying a lot of products. Several ideas which interest me are the following: British and American movies, game shows, video games, good jokes, stories, mathematical induction, and even certain natural sciences. I enjoy learning historical information, and I like to Google certain things, which contain all these sorts of information (in my spare time).
Roshaan S.
Michael, I enjoy watching all those national geographic and crime documentaries, you are right we all choose what makes up happy and then go from there to make them go viral.
DeleteAs a Shark TV show fan, and an entrepreneur, this would be the greatest thing that can happen in the business perspective. Certain product goes viral because of one reason. That reason is because it is a fad. But how does that certain issue, video, clothing or etc. become a fad. Nowadays, it is not hard to promote that one thing that you want to promote. Social media and other world wide web tools are greatly abundant. It is just hard to turn that into Fad. I believe that certain videos go viral because the public is talking about it, they are tweeting, tagging, and sharing this on the social media. It becomes a trend. But this is like a one time big time shot.
ReplyDeleteJohn,
DeleteI really think Shark Tank is a really good show. When I watched that show, I realized that the new electronic products were the products, which everyone wanted to invest in. Food products were always the products, which never got sold. This was mainly because the food products contained higher sugar contents. The products with the best qualities always contained higher demands. I realized that an entrepreneur needs to have the following qualities: a happy face, enthusiasm, good explanations about his/her product, sufficient research and knowledge regarding his/her product, and convincing salesmanship. The Shark Tank entrepreneurs should also contain the credentials, sales, and even work experiences to sell their products. The sharks in Shark Tank come up with difficult deals, and the entrepreneur has to wisely pick the best deal, which best suits him/her. I realized that Shark Tank is a complex show, since it involves a lot of decisions. The entrepreneur should try to sell his/her product, and pick the best deal in a very short amount of time. This show also contains a lot of entertainment and suspense, which make a lot of people want to watch it more often.
Roshaan S.
I think products, videos, and trends go viral because they are generally catchy, funny, or cute. I think Gingham Style become so popular because it was pretty catchy. You literally couldn't get the song and dance out of your head. Now this made it incredibly annoying very quickly, but people still loved it. It was a go to dance. As for Bailando, I'm not sure why that has so many views. I personally think it is a terrible song, but maybe thats because they played it way too much on the radio. I think the more catchy or shocking it is the more popular it will become. Things really go viral with all the different social medias. People love to post about the hottest trends and be seen as cool, which makes everyone jump on the same band wagon. If something is super catchy, really funny, insanely cute, or incredibly shocking it will easily go viral within hours.
ReplyDeleteI have to agree, though I never saw the video, it was used in many commercials, and that damn song was stuck in my head just like the Subway $5 Sub song was stuck in my head. "5,...$5,...$5 Footlong, any, any, any".
DeleteI think a large reason Gangham style got popular was because it was in a foreign language, and it's quite often that people are fascinated by that. Look at Japanese for example. There are many fans of the Japanese language because of media outlets, whether it's songs, books, or television shows.
DeleteI totally agree videos go viral because they are funny or catchy. I also think it is because they are cute as well for instance, the Charley bit me video was super cute.
DeleteIt's really intriguing to what videos, songs and even movies become "hits" and go viral. It's almost as the things you would least expect to go viral end up being a world wide sensation. Even back in the 1980's when the band Toto wrote the song "Africa" quickly to complete their album, they would have never guessed it becoming so popular. I think a lot of these things are so unpredictable and really become famous for no real apparent reason. Regardless of how many people claim to hate Taylor Swift, they still sing her songs. When songs, videos or even movies become so catchy, I think a lot of people just gravitate to them.
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree. I think it depends on the music that makes people find them catchy and you're right, people just gravitate to them.
DeleteIn my opinion, I things go viral based on the time and money that is put into. Other things go viral just because people do uncommon thing that a normal person wouldn't dare to do in public. For instance, promoters take there time to make something known and will use all types of social media to share it. Now, its common for others to see it especially if it has to do with a famous person. Others who are not famous can make a video go viral just by doing a deviant act that a normal person wouldn't do. Things that are out of the norm I think catches people attention which is a main reason people may share it and tell others about. At the end, everyone wants to be part of the hot topic.
ReplyDeleteHi Neida,
DeleteI agree that many celebrities advertise products and these products become famous. I also liked your point of doing things out of the norm. For example, all those vine videos that went viral because they made people laugh.
This topic of viral videos is very interesting to think about. I believe it is because if you get enough people to "advertise" some sort of product or new video it becomes a rolling snow ball effect. This causes millions of people to think they must see or get this new thing to be cool or hip. Creating billions of views on videos since every child or adult feel the need to know exactly how the song or what happens in the video.
ReplyDeleteThat is a good point about how one person can watch the same video multiple times to know the song or video. One person slowly but surely can add views to a video online. This reminds of a horrible show I caught part of on Netflix called "Haters Back Off" about a no talent girl who wants to be the next YouTube sensation and posts videos that no one ever views. One day a boy that likes her watches the video and uses every device he has to watch the videos over and over in an attempt to make it go viral.
DeleteHi Jason,
Deleteyou are right that it is a snowball effect when videos go viral. They literally go from just a small group of people to thousands and hundreds of thousands shares and views overnight.
A certain product, video, or trend becomes viral when millions of people like it and share about it with others. Today, any person who does not know about the latest viral thing is considered "outdated." Thus, we try to learn about what is popular in order to remain in part of the conversation. As a certain product, video, or trend permeates through social media and seeps into our daily lives, we start to live and breathe it. We incorporate it into our conversations. If it's a viral product, we use it in our daily lives. In my opinion, the main factors in making something become viral depends on who promotes it and how it is promoted. Also, who is the target audience? Those factors aside, we as human beings like to hop on bandwagons to follow whatever other people are doing because it is "cool." Smart promotion combined with sociological factors make a certain product, video, or trend go viral.
ReplyDeleteYang, I'm one of this people. I'm not interested on buying the latest product in the market. But I like to go once on a while to Best Buys and see what its new. I do not want to stay way behind, but its hard to catch up with new items arriving every week. There are so many on each department that I get headaches.
DeleteIn my opinion certain products, videos, and trends go viral so qickly because of social media and how many people are involved with social media. For example, a simple video on you tube can go viral by a simple click. The share button is available on all social media sites and is one of the main ways that these products get spread so quickly. This technology is very beneficial because it also helps spread news and important information.
ReplyDeleteRaven, I agree! I believe social media takes a big part into this.
DeleteI think that a crucial part of a product, whether it is a video or a trend, is timing. The other parts, such as: colors, catchy tunes, sexual content, violence, and other are just small parts of the puzzle. To prove the point about timing, thirty years ago, going “viral” was not even a term that was used, unless you were speaking about the common cold or the flu. The timing had to be right for the widespread use of home computers. With time, the technology evolved to the point where it became feasible to make computers that one could have in their home and now at this present time, in the palms of our hands. Without this, there would be no such thing as going viral. Try going viral through the postal service. While I recognize the fact that “flashyness,” lyrics, the right energy levels, etc., are important to why things go viral, I think that as the old saying goes, “Timing is everything.”
ReplyDeleteAlbion, I agree with you when you say that "timing is everything," but I can't help to wonder where does "timing" come in on the recent viral video about the "cash me outside howbow dah" teenager?
DeleteWe have to look at what is going on with our society today. We are at a time when young people want instant gratification more than anything else. Not that it has not always been this way, but fingertip access to an unlimited amount of products to consume has by far exceeded anything that we could have predicted. What this means is that young people, who are the largest consumer of products such as that video, see it, recognize its against social norms, and share it with their friends and on it spreads. In the past, it was much more difficult to spread such stupidity,(just one man's opinion), over a vast area as it is today. I could go on, but I will just say that it is the time that we are in right now that created the environment for this video to go viral.
DeleteI think certain products can go viral for many reasons. Marketing plays a large role in making products seem desirable or undesirable. The same product can be marketed under different lights. For example, cigarettes used to be marketed with people of social status that gave a positive connotation to them. Now they are marketed with a negative stigma towards them associated with disease. The same products can be marketed in different ways to make them popular or unpopular.
ReplyDeleteJoann, I also think marketing is a huge factor into a product or video becoming desirable. I think you can take the worst product, market it correctly, and change the entire view of the product.
DeleteThere are many factors that play a big role on the reason why products or videos go viral. Word of mouth is usually more effective than paid advertising. Its contagious because its targeted. Nobody tells a friend who doesn't go to school about a new way of purchasing cheaper books. Instead, we talk about things we know will help each other. that being said, Social media is another big factor. First of all, it's free advertisement and it's a great way of getting "likes." People share things because they're funny, they can relate or even because they see others sharing it so they want to have that social currency. Lastly, I believe emotion is another crucial point. Like stated previously, if someone feels emotionally connected with a video for example, he/she more than likely will share so others can see how funny, sad, shocking or upsetting that video can be. Not only does that person feel socially connected, but they feel they're "sharing the word around" so everyone is informed on whatever the topic might be.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree that word of mouth plays a big part in things going viral. Everyday someone different is asking me if i've seen a certain video or used a certain product.
DeleteYes! Word of mouth is the best form of advertisement. I was able to build a business over twenty-five years ago based solely on word of mouth. By the way, I had never seen that video until I read your response, and now I have a head-ache.
DeleteAlbion- LOL!!!
DeleteI too got a headache when I first watched that video!
In my opinion things going viral fall into two different categories: things that are wanted and planned in the hopes of going viral, and things not intended to go viral. For example, a hit song or product is not made in the hopes that no one listens or buys it; the producers want everyone to know about it and buy it and tell their friends about it. In this case I believe they go viral based on its marketing and intended audience. On the other hand, home videos or things of that sort that go viral were not made with the intentions to go viral. The popular snapchat videos“Damn Daniel” got some publicity and then the two boys that made them went on Ellen and got a lifetime supply of vans. Or the Kermit the frog sipping his tea meme; one person used it, and then overnight it was all over social media. I know we’ve all seen the video of the girl that was curling her hair and burned it off. I feel like these videos/ memes were not made with the intention of going viral but went viral because of a celebrity showcasing them or because of the nature of the video/meme. The girl that burned her hair off was probably trying to do a tutorial video that wouldn’t have gotten as many views, but because she burned her hair off people thought it was funny and so they shared it and she went viral. If social media was not around, I don’t think we would have nearly as many things go viral as we do.
ReplyDeleteI believe certain products videos, or trends go viral while others go nowhere because of society. We have such a powerful influence over what becomes popular and what doesn’t. We see something we like and we post it, share it, or recommend it and the cycle continues. It is also very simple to go out and promote products right from our computers. We are connected to the whole world so it is a way to ensure that everyone sees it.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I have heard of Youtubers and celebrities sponsoring certain products because they are “famous” and get paid for it. That also contributes to certain things going viral.
Personally, I have liked the song “Bailando” since it first came out, but I had never seen the music video. Watching it just now made me feel different about it (in a good way). It is a catchy song with a good beat and the people in the video having a great time makes it all better. They are all connected by the language of dance. I am not a dancer but it made me want to dance and I am guessing others may feel that way also.
The Gangnam Style hit I was not a fan of, but I understand why others were. It also had a catchy beat and there was a dance that came along with it. Many enjoyed this because they tried imitating the dance and it became popular (and annoying) very quick. The different language could have also piqued people’s interest.
In my opinion, I believe that certain products, videos or trends go viral while others go nowhere because of social media, society, and fame. I believe that for something to go viral it has to have really good paid advertisement. People have to find it amazing and it then starts to become a trend to be focused on a specific person even if its a music artist. For example if a really good artist releases a new album everyone will talk and talk about it until it becomes really known. Even if that album isn't really good enough people will still start to talk about it because of the fame that person has. In my opinion, Enrique Iglesisas music video "Bailando" displays a really good song and vibe. When I heard this song I found it catchy and fun to listen to because for me it represented really fun times. The Gangman style on the other hand was quite funny, therefore the fame on this music video did amazing as well. I believe this one was popular due to the dance the music video displayed. Everyone would start doing the dance and the music video was funny overall. So overall, I believe all of this comes with fame, society, and social interaction/ Media.
ReplyDeleteOmar, I agree with you that for for something to go viral the majority of the population has to think it is really amazing and unique! I also agree that both youtube videos were fun and catchy, which is probably why they became viral. Humor always brings attraction!
DeleteI think what it takes for a certain product or video to go viral is it has to be something completely out of the ordinary. Society is so fixed on being "normal" that when something is created and doesn't fit this norm, it draws our attention even more. My brother recently made a video at McDonalds, where he used a drill to mix the Mcflury because he claims they are never mixed properly. His video got over one million views. Not only was this video completely ridiculous and funny, but I also think that a lot of other people criticize McDonalds for their poor Mcflurry mixing skills. I think this was the reason his video became viral. I think most importantly for the video or product to go viral, is the creativity factor! I watched the Bailando video and I would say it was pretty creative. A lot of times music videos are more serious with a secret message, I think this video was just fun, so it drew in the crowd.
ReplyDeleteThere are a number of factors that come into play when wondering how to make a video go viral. You have to attempt to cater to every audience. Humor is huge, I mean come on who doesn't love to laugh? Content is another big factor. I won't sit and watch a video on politics because it doesn't interest me. Length of the video is also a big factor. Not many people want to, or even have the discipline to sit and watch a 35 minute YouTube video unless they are 100% intrigued with what they are watching, which goes back to content being a big factor.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the time aspect, the video can not be really long or people can get bored and stop watching.
DeleteI have always wondered why, certain videos or people go viral. For example, the girl that came out in Dr. Phil's show who went viral for her personality of a spoil brat. I am not sure what her name is, but she became famous for her line "catch me outside, howabout that?". I mean, I am not going to lie she was pretty funny and unbelievable maybe that is why she went viral. I think the reason why people, trends, or videos go viral is because social media allows for it, through shares among people, especially Facebook and Twitter. That is where things usually go viral. However, for videos such as the one by Enrique Iglesias or even Shakira's world cup songs, go viral because they are already famous and their videos are actually advertised or top trend on YouTube which people tend to watch. Or simply because the music is good when people hear it in the radio and they go on and look for the video on YouTube. At least that is what I do.
ReplyDeleteI can not stand that girl! Crazy how ridiculous things go viral!
DeleteI think certain things like videos and people go viral because of the things people value nowadays. I cannot stand that 'Cassh me ousside" girl, but for some reason, she has millions of followers on Instagram now after her episode from Dr. Phil blew up. It seems to me that what people choose to value is what goes viral, and when things go viral and others don't know what their friends are talking about, they want to be in the know. I think the videos are what society deems cool/uncool and they like things that provide instant gratification. I've seen a lot of videos go viral that we're not funny to me at all, but others found it funny, but I've also seen videos go viral that make my heart melt. I guess it's just a matter of preference and what is popular to people in society. Anything that is part of popular culture like famous music videos would definitely go viral because they already have a bigger platform in society.
ReplyDeleteIt's funny, I see a lot of us talking about the Dr. Phil girl haha
DeleteI think there are a lot of factors that go into products, videos, or trends going viral. One of the main reasons videos go viral is because of social media. If people find it entertaining, controversial, etc. they spread it around by sharing it and eventually it goes viral. As for products and trends, I think advertisement has a lot to do with them going viral. Especially if the product or trend is being used by someone famous. People believe that just because someone famous is following a trend or using a product that it is good or it makes them cool. Overall, I believe certain things go viral because of social media, the way it is portrayed, and celebrity endorsement.
ReplyDeleteI think certain products, videos, or trends go “viral” because the content of it catches people’s attention and they share it. I feel like people who are already famous will easily go viral because they have a larger platform and are able to share their content with others. On the other hand, people that are not famous become viral because what they post is touching, funny, or horrible. Videos that touch people’s hearts become viral, for example when someone pays for a strangers groceries or a little girls singing on the Ellen show. Funny videos of someone falling or anything that causes someone to laugh also can become viral. Lastly when something really bad happens for example a fight or an accident that also tends to become viral. In the end as long as it is somewhat entertaining and people share it with others it will become viral.
ReplyDeleteWhatever satifies the audience is going to viral so you are definitely corret in saying that as long as it's entertaining to some group of people, then it will probably go viral.
DeleteA big factor, like you said is being at the right place at the right time. Sometimes people need to escape and the right video comes along.
ReplyDeleteWhy do certain products, videos, or trends go "viral" while others simply go nowhere?
ReplyDeleteI believe that the primary reason some videos receive more views is based on the person that's posting it. If that person is someone who is well known such as a Ricky Martin then it's bound to attact the viewer. Besides a music video has a greater chance to be selected, because I mean come on who doesn't like music? The second thing I feel that grabs people's attention is the title the poster puts on the video's caption box. If the title is catchy the person will be intrigued to see what the video is about. Of course this then leads to the content. If the viewer sees three videos of the same poster than most likely it's because the posters content excites the viewer. From there on this person will recommend the poster to other people, and then the chain will proceed giving the poster a lot more chances for his/her videos to be viewed.
I agree, it depends on if a lot of people will watch/share the video.
DeleteWith social media being a main vehicle for file sharing, it is no surprise how quickly things spread. It could pique the interest of viewers because it evokes a feeling of childhood, friends, it could be cute or funny. I think because some feel the need to be "in the know" and fear being left behind, even when it is something that doesn't cause the same reaction, they share it anyway. Gangham Style is one of those things that drives me up the wall. EVERYONE shared it and I couldn't figure out what the allure was. Just wasn't what interested me, I guess. Some, because they enjoy the drama, share controversial material. I believe it's really all a matter of chance.
ReplyDeleteFinally, someone who also feels that Gangham Style was not interesting....lol!
DeleteI didn't like Gangham style either.. haha
DeleteIt's kind of funny that it was popular for so long
DeleteCertain products, videos, and trends go viral for many reasons. The reasons are the following: people have certain tastes and preferences, the items (products, videos, and trends) contain a lot of suspense, people like brand new innovations, people enjoy comedies, people like to buy cheaper products, and people love items which are sold in a convincing manner. All of these factors make products, videos, and trends popular. If one person truly loves these items, he/she should decide whether or not to spread the news. The people who hear and enjoy the news should then create a cycle of news spreading. This cycle continues on, until the videos, trends, and products become popular. I also noticed that record-breaking is also another factor, which intrigues a lot of people. A record does not have to be great; it can also be amusing. I noticed that Shark Tank, football games, game shows, mystery, drama, and all kinds of genre can interest a person into making certain consumer choices. I also noticed that various people have different interests, and they form different groups to make them popular. Animals can also make television popular, because their sounds can convince people to make decisions and laugh. An example is a llama from a recent Shark Tank episode, which signaled two entrepreneurs to take a good financial deal. Also, the way music is played and the way a person sings a song, can indicate popularity. Popularity is based on many universal and unique factors, and it is up to different groups of people to spread the news. Videos, products, and trends consist of all these factors, in order to become popular and viral.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree that people make things go viral based off of the certain tastes peoples have in the world. There are memes that can be geared to many different audiences and are easily found on the internet. If there are a lot of people with the same interest the chances of something going viral increase even more because the audience is established and hungry for the next big and exciting thing to laugh and talk about. People look for things to conversate about which also helps with making something go viral because they want to tag their friends or send them a link. It's pretty cool to see things blow up from something someone accidentally caught on video or just a silly makeup look.
DeleteWhen it comes to things going viral it depends on different factors. I think the first factor has to do with is where the item is posted and how many people can be in the potential audience. If someone posts it on a blog that is barely starting out and has barely a few handfuls of people watching then it is very unlikely for it to go viral. Secondly, who the person or what kind of person that is posting it. If it's someone like Beyoncé posting something outrageous, no matter what it is, people are going to start loving and participating in the new trend. So many people follow her life so it is constantly being watched compared to someone who had a few friends on instagram that nobody thinks is cool/popular enough to make something funny or relevant. Thirdly, the material being posted has to be relevant to what people a big group of people are into. For example, many people are into makeup and becoming famous in this world, so when people saw someone talking about a "feather eyebrow," people went nuts. People were inspired but some were negative. Even though the initial picture of the stArting the trend was a big joke, it went viral. The woman had a lot of followers and tagged big names in the makeup industry, posted it on the very popular site Instagram, and favored the makeup population. In order for something to go viral it has to catch enough people's attention and have some relevance like to music for example for people to start mAking something get so big.
ReplyDeleteIt seems that it doesn't take much for a trend to develop. Once a celebrity begins the trend it doesn't matter what it is. People like it even if its crazy. Social media plays such a huge factor in todays society.
DeleteWe live in a society that revolves around social media. Things going viral are a click away and billions of people have access to the latest trends. Nowadays kids even own an electronic device and are a swipe away from the latest trends product or videos. There are over a billion of accounts of the following applications Facebook, SnapChat, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube and everyone most likely uses one or perhaps all of them. All it takes is for something to be funny, catchy, or being shared on social media and will become a trend. PewDiePie YouTube channel is the most subscribed channel on YouTube therefore anything he has a positive review on will be bought. Kinder surprise eggs popular among young children YouTube users are hard to get your hands on because of their popularity among children for instance. Makeup tutorials are popular on YouTube as well since women want to have their "eyebrows on fleek". Selena Gomez has the most followed account on Instagram and therefore any things she promotes will be views by a large audience. The latest trend the unicorn frappuccino released yesterday by Starbucks is all over Instagram and snap chat stories and became a trend. I asked my sister who bought one yesterday and asked why she bought it usually buys the mocha frappuccino. She responded that she bought it because she saw it on Instagram and was curious to see how it tasted. We follow or subscribe to accounts of people we enjoy following on social media they then share a product give a good review of it then we go buy it. Those users with millions of subscribers wear something and then we go buy it and wear it. The Kardashian/Jenner family are the most followed and influential to any product or trend. They get payed for wearing or promoting products so we can buy them. The Kardashians can literally wear a sweater with holes and we will go buy them. Popular videos like Damn Daniel or the cash me outside have something catchy that catches the interest of the people and then the trend begins as it starts to be shared, retweeted, liked or watched on YouTube. The things that go viral are later forgotten by another viral video, product or trend. Videos, trends and products that don't go viral are because they are not shared thousands of times or were simply not catchy to the eye.
ReplyDeleteYou make great points, and I really enjoyed reading your blog as I agree with you. It is true, if it were not for social media, things would not go viral as it does when people share something through a video or a picture. Also, you made a good point that celeberties have a platform where they can share a trend or anything in particular and people start following it. Did you know that "13 Reason Why" is the most watched show on Netflix? Do you think that it is because Selena Gomez who is the most followed person on Instagram promoted it, since she was part of the show? at least I do.
DeleteI think that the reason trends keep going viral is because people are bored or need a distraction from things going on in society. For example when everyone was playing pokemon go. The nice thing was about it though was that everyone was able to have fun together, people made new friends and spent time outside excersizing. I feel like people want a distraction and something different from the norm or status quo.
ReplyDeleteIt is kind of funny how things go viral for only a while until something new comes out, then people forget about it. Like when people would play Clash of Clans for a while? I think people just get bored of it and move on to a different game such as Pokemon Go.
DeleteI agree Mirryah. People find themselves "surfing the web" out of boredom and come across random things. Also, having a distraction from stressful situations is also a good way. People have time to find and pass along these random things.
DeleteI agree, once someone does it that you know you then begin doing it also. Doesn't take long before it goes viral. Seems like a distraction from everyday realities.
DeleteI wish other things like this became popular.
DeleteI believe many things go viral because it may attract certain audiences. Many YouTube videos are watched by different types of people with different interests. But as funny as this might sound different people tend to have a lot more in common. The fact that gangham style had more than 2 billion video hits, shows that ethnicity, race, age or sex has nothing to do with it. It's also amusing how random videos go viral because of the certain audience it targets. An example is the “Catch me out side, how about dat” girl. I've never seen the actual episode of Dr. Phil but I kept seeing the clip everywhere mostly everyone had seen it or had heard about it. The younger generation definitely made this girl famous by re watching and retweeting the clip in dance videos, memes, and even songs. I mean now she is famous and makes a lot of money. But it's strange to think that she got famous for being rebellious and act out towards her mom. Some videos may go viral because it's a new single from one of your favorite artists, or it might be a funny clip from a show, movie, or YouTuber. Because I know for a fact if Drake would drop a new video it would be on repeat. :) I have also noticed that some videos get popular if it involves violence, a funny skit, and even volgs. It will just depend on us what we decide to be popular.
ReplyDeleteI agree it depends on what the people decide to become popular or viral. Were the ones in the end thats gonna make somebody blow up with whatever content their putting out to the world.
DeleteThings go viral simply because its something new and never thought of. Or it is a catchy phrase, or a catchy song. Like music rap artists Rae Sremmurd, they made a song called Black Beatles and came up with this challenge called the Mannequin challenge where people would freeze themselves while the intro of the song played and then when the beat dropped, everyone goes bananas and dance. Then there are the Youtube videos that go viral everyday because Youtube is still to me the main source for viral videos and trending videos in all forms. Like the guy who goes on skyscrapers and jump on them or walk on them, run on them etc. This guy is basically the most fearless guy in the world and he films himself on these super high buildings doing things on them to where with one slip he could fall to his death. He has become super famous. There is even a supermodel who became viral after posting a video on youtube of her being held by one hand to get the perfect selfie hanging on a high building off the roof off it in Dubai. People create all types of viral videos either it being through music, comedy, daredevil stunts, or serious life stories, it can be anything. There are viral videos everyday. Its really nothing you can do to change the outcome unless you go and do some crazy video jumping off of roofs and stuff. Another major thing is clickbait as well. Youtubers have been known to clickbait to make a video go viral. It is simply making a false thumbnail picture and title to get viewers to watch what they think it is going to be about, and then the video is actually a total different thing all along. Like I made a super bowl reaction video the same night of the super bowl of the Patriots vs Falcons and the video blew up. I barely have like 100 subscribers on my youtube channel, but because i jumped on the video so quickly it stayed on the first page of the search results for this year's super bowl.
ReplyDeleteThat's a good example of Black Beatles. I agree, a lot of videos go viral when they're something new and catchy.
DeleteI believe videos and things all together go viral for a number of reasons. Videos on youtube in particular go viral and go over that tipping point because they are different and new catchy things to society. Youtube is watched by everyone. Young, old, different races all watch videos as it is easily accessible. The tipping point is when something begins to get popular then just explodes and everyone either has it or seen it. Some items don't make it past the tipping point because they simply don't receive the amount of attention they need. The tipping point is critical. When popular artists post about specific items they can endeavor the possibility to throw it over the tipping point. It sometimes takes a celebrity or popular figure to take it over that point.
ReplyDeleteI think videos go viral because they're interesting, maybe because we can't believe someone would actually watch it but we can't stop watching it. Like that video from a few years back, "what does the fox say", it was super obnoxious and not that funny but so many people watched it. I couldn't stop because I just kept thinking to myself what is this and why is everyone so intrigued by it.
ReplyDeleteAnd now I have that song in my head. That particular song had such a catchy tune I can see why it went viral. I believe people enjoyed it because it was so uplifting, high energy, and fun. Being interesting is always a good way for something to go viral.
DeleteNow that song is stuck in my head too, Jamie haha! I agree Zelina, I thought it was annoying, but I watched it to see what the fuss was about.
DeleteI believe that things seem to go viral when several factors are involved. Because of social media we now have access to so much more than ever before. Where as something would become trendy or popular over time, now a days, it takes mere seconds. Usually things became trendy with the help of television and commercials, but all of that goes out the window when considering the internet. For something to go viral someone with a large following has to get his or her hands on it. The item, song, video, or photo has to be catchy and interesting. And, the movement of "sharing" the viral thing must take place. The more people see it and "share" it to their friends the more access people have to it. Because of social media, things now catch on and we can instantly access peoples opinions about it.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, we have so many ways to connect through social media. I believe it doesn't take much, people will share and this trend spreads so quickly.
DeleteHonestly I've pondered the thought a few times.. I wonder how some things can go crazy on the internet and some just don't. It's amazing how an ordinary person's video can get a million views out of no where. I believe the main idea is that our world now revolves around social media and I believe a big factor is if it can make people laugh or not. Sadly, I feel that a lot of videos particularly evolve because everyone is making fun of the people/things in the video. For example, the 13 year old girl on Dr. Phil that said "how bout dah". She became infamous because everyone was picking fun at what she said and making jokes. Another factor that I believe plays in it is if celebrities/more popular people show interest in the video. If a celebrity likes it, everyone thinks it's cool and wants to watch it/share it.
ReplyDeleteHi Brianna,
DeleteI like that you brought up how if a celebrity shows interest in it, then it will most likely take off. We are so heavily influenced by social media and celebrities and that all contributes to videos going viral.