Kelsey Weekman

Kelsey Weekman, a senior entertainment reporter at Yahoo News specializing in internet culture, joins to unpack who Alex Warren is and why his music is everywhere. They dive into Warren's journey from Hype House influencer to Grammy-nominated artist, exploring his pivot to music and the rise of 'secular praise music.' Kelsey explains the formula behind his viral success, including his strategic branding and emotional performance visuals. They also discuss the unique allure of TikTok stars entering the music scene and what sets Warren apart from others.

Kelsey Weekman, a senior entertainment reporter at Yahoo News, joins to explore the rise of TikTok star and Grammy nominee Alex Warren. They discuss Alex's journey from Hype House influencer to musician, highlighting his viral hit 'Ordinary' and its connection to his performance in a 'Love Is Blind' reunion. Kelsey defines the emerging genre of secular praise music, explaining its appeal in pop culture. The duo also examines the strategies behind Alex's brand, combining emotional marketing with religious imagery, and why some TikTok musicians achieve lasting success.

Kelsey Weekman, a Senior Entertainment Reporter at Yahoo News specializing in internet culture and the creator economy, shares her insights fresh from VidCon. She discusses the surprising revival of YouTube's prominence at the event, highlighting the induction of iconic creators into VidCon's Hall of Fame. The conversation reveals why TikTok, despite its popularity, hasn't dethroned YouTube's standing. Kelsey also reflects on the evolution of digital content creation and shares personal anecdotes, making this a vibrant exploration of today's social media landscape.