Though the Grammys celebrate the best in music, for a real understanding of who’s on the rise in the industry, TikTok may be a better barometer. Why is the platform so integral to Gen Z’s musical exploration? And how is TikTok changing the way they listen to and show love for their idols?

Rapper Doja Cat has won over the internet with her genre-defying music and larger-than-life, relatable online personality. By placing authenticity at the heart of her brand, she’s able to mess around online, push social boundaries, and spark divisive conversations without tarnishing her image.

Ghanaian-British pop sensation Bree Runway is tackling stigma within the music industry and using it to fight against a much bigger cause: colourism. She’s using her celebrity status to empower Black women and bringing genre-bending musical styles more into the mainstream.

Black female artist Mickey Guyton is leading a revolution in country music. Because of historical erasure and gatekeeping, there’s a notable absence of Black creators in the genre – but streaming platforms are providing a seat at the table as part of a wider movement of inclusion and empowerment.