Tiktok and the Rise of Protest Music in Digital Activism in Kenya

Abstract

This study examines the role of TikTok in the revitalisation of protest music. Anchored on Digital Mobilisation Theory, the study explores how the platform facilitates virality, digital mobilisation, and activism among Generation Z (Gen Z), examining the intersection of social media, music, and political engagement to amplify protest messages. This study utilised a qualitative research design, utilising online interviews administered through Google Forms among TikTok users, predominantly from Generation Z (Gen Z). Data analysis involves content analysis. It also incorporated a content analysis of viral protest music, trending hashtags, and associated user engagement metrics. Research findings show that TikTok has emerged as a significant tool for political engagement, particularly among Gen Z, through the combination of entertainment with political activism. The ability of TikTok to amplify dissenting voices and accelerate widespread digital mobilisation continues to reshape traditional methods of activism. There is a need, however, to understand how TikTok's unique features, algorithms and curation contribute to its growing role in promoting activism and the dissemination of protest music.