The girl group KATSEYE has been honored as TikTok's Global Artist of the Year for 2025, marking their rapid rise to international fame. Formed in 2023 with members from multiple countries, the band has leveraged the platform to build a massive following and secure Grammy nominations. Their success underscores TikTok's influence in connecting new music with global audiences.
KATSEYE, a six-member girl group originating from the U.S., South Korea, Switzerland, and the Philippines, has quickly become a powerhouse in the pop music scene. Just two years after their formation in 2023, they have gathered over 15 million followers on TikTok and earned nominations for Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the Grammys.
Achievements and Fan Impact
The group's statement highlighted the dedication of their fans, known as EYEKONS: “We had an unforgettable year on TikTok, and it was all because of the EYEKONS who showed up for us every single day. You turned our songs, our moments, and our chaos into something truly global.” This fan-driven energy has propelled tracks like “Gnarly” to become one of TikTok's top songs of 2025, inspiring choreography recreations by artists such as LE SSERAFIM and Camila Cabello. Similarly, “Gabriela” sparked 2.4 million user creations, leading to a top-10 spot on Spotify's global chart and a Grammy recognition.
Collaborations and Viral Moments
A notable collaboration with Gap, featuring Kelis's “Milkshake,” generated over 150 million TikTok views. The dance trend was popularized by influencers like Charli D’Amelio, amplifying the group's reach. These moments exemplify how KATSEYE has navigated a fragmented music industry to achieve genuine worldwide appeal.
Broader TikTok Influence
While KATSEYE represents emerging talent, the platform also revived older tracks, such as Connie Francis's 1962 song “Pretty Little Baby,” which saw over 600,000 daily creations and celebrity endorsements from figures like Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet. Francis, now 87, joined TikTok to express her gratitude: “To think that a song I recorded 63 years ago is captivating new generations of audiences is truly overwhelming for me.” This blend of new and classic content defines TikTok's role in 2025 music culture, where eight of the year's top Billboard hits originated as viral trends on the app.