From $20 TikToks to Superstar: Addison Rae's Shocking Early Dealings with Record Labels
Addison Rae, the rising pop star known for her captivating performances and massive online following, recently revealed a surprising detail about her early days on TikTok. In a candid interview with The New York Times' Popcast, Rae disclosed that record labels once offered her a mere $20 to create TikTok videos promoting their artists' music. This revelation offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of influencer marketing and the strategies record labels employed to gain traction in the burgeoning social media era.
Rae, whose full name is Addison Rae Easterling, shared this anecdote during a discussion about the pressures and complexities of navigating the music industry. The Popcast interview delved into her journey from viral TikTok sensation to recording artist, exploring the challenges she faced transitioning from short-form video content to crafting a full-fledged music career.
The $20 TikTok deal highlights a time when record labels were just beginning to understand the power of TikTok and its influence on music discovery. Back then, paying micro-influencers small amounts to promote songs was a relatively common tactic. It underscores how much the influencer marketing landscape has changed, with creators now commanding significantly higher fees for their services.
“It was like, ‘We’ll pay you $20 to do a TikTok,’” Rae explained, reflecting on the early offers. While the sum may seem insignificant now, it represented an early attempt by labels to harness the platform’s viral potential. It’s a stark contrast to the multi-figure deals often seen today, where influencers with substantial followings are sought after for their ability to drive streams and generate buzz.
Rae's story is a testament to her own talent and perseverance. She leveraged her initial TikTok success to build a brand, sign a record deal, and ultimately carve out a space for herself in the competitive music industry. The interview also touched upon the creative control she fought for, and the pressures of maintaining her image while navigating the demands of a major label.
The revelation about the $20 TikTok deals has sparked considerable discussion online, prompting many to reflect on the evolution of influencer marketing and the shifting power dynamics between artists, labels, and social media platforms. It serves as a reminder that even the biggest stars started somewhere, and Rae's journey from a small payment to a thriving career is an inspiring story of ambition and adaptation in the digital age.
