TikTok Users Speeding Up Songs

In a notable trend, fan-made sped-up versions of songs are helping artists achieve significant chart success. A prime example is RAYE’s single "Escapism," which reached number one on the UK Official Singles Chart in November 2022, nearly three months after its original release. The trend gained momentum around a specific lyric, showcasing how social media can amplify a song's reach and popularity. The phenomenon of sped-up listening, which began in the early 2000s with the "nightcore" movement, has evolved with the rise of social media platforms. Today, users can easily adjust the speed of various audio and video content, including podcasts and music. In 2023, over a third of Spotify listeners in the US reported using sped-up playback for podcasts, while nearly two-thirds preferred faster tempos for songs, indicating a shift in consumption habits. Industry professionals, like BBC Radio 1 DJ Maia Beth, acknowledge the growing influence of this trend on established musicians and labels. Beth notes that the pressure to release sped-up versions is increasing, as unofficial versions can quickly gain traction on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. While these versions differ from professional remixes, they are often shorter and more accessible for creators. Despite the trend's popularity, not everyone is on board. Some listeners have expressed concerns that sped-up snippets may overshadow the original tracks, leading to debates about authenticity and recognition in the music industry.