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 Yahoo News senior entertainment reporter specializing in internet culture, shares insights from this year's VidCon. She discusses YouTube's stronghold despite TikTok's popularity, highlighting the emotional highlights of VidCon's 20th anniversary. The conversation dives into the cultural clash between the two platforms, how YouTube remains favored by adults, and the nostalgic impact of early creators like the Vlogbrothers. They also touch on the dynamic interactions within the social media space and playful ideas for engaging panels.