Why videos go viral - Kevin Allocca

Hi, I'm Kevin Allocca, the Trends Manager at YouTube, where I professionally watch YouTube videos to understand how and why they go viral. In this article, we'll delve into the phenomenon of viral videos, exploring the key factors that contribute to their success and why it matters in today's digital age.

Videos going viral have become a pathway to fame and recognition in our culture. With millions of hours of video content being uploaded to platforms like YouTube every minute, only a fraction of them manage to capture the audience's attention and become viral sensations. Kevin Allocca highlights three essential elements that contribute to the viral success of videos: tastemakers, communities of participation, and unexpectedness. By analyzing real-life examples like the Double Rainbow video, Rebecca Black's "Friday," and Nyan Cat, Allocca illustrates how these elements play a crucial role in propelling a video to viral status.

Tastemakers like Jimmy Kimmel can introduce viewers to new and engaging content, helping videos reach a larger audience and gain traction. Additionally, the concept of community participation plays a significant role in the virality of videos, as seen with the numerous parodies and remixes that emerge around popular videos. Lastly, unexpectedness in content can capture viewers' attention and spark creativity, leading to the creation of diverse and engaging content that resonates with audiences worldwide.

The evolution of digital media has democratized the entertainment industry, allowing individuals to showcase their creativity and potentially become internet sensations overnight. The rise of platforms like YouTube has enabled anyone to share their content globally, while the audience plays a crucial role in determining what becomes popular in our cultural landscape.

Keywords

Viral videos
Tastemakers
Community participation
Unexpectedness
Digital media
Internet culture

FAQ

How do videos go viral?
- Videos go viral due to a combination of factors such as tastemakers introducing content to a larger audience, community participation through parodies and remixes, and the element of unexpectedness that captures viewers' attention.
Why does the concept of community participation matter in the virality of videos?
- Community participation not only helps in spreading viral videos but also fosters creativity and engagement among viewers, leading to the emergence of diverse content and cultural phenomena.
What role do platforms like YouTube play in enabling individuals to become internet sensations?
- Platforms like YouTube have democratized the entertainment industry, providing a global stage for individuals to showcase their creativity and potentially achieve fame without traditional gatekeepers.