In an age where social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have become the launchpads for countless aspiring talents, the allure of instant fame and recognition is undeniable.
Many young artists, influencers, and creators dream of the day their content goes viral, catapulting them into the limelight.
However, pursuing social media fame comes with many challenges and dangers that often go unacknowledged.
Nigerian comedian and filmmaker, Bright Okpocha, popularly known as Basketmouth, has cautioned aspiring talents about the dangers of social media fame.
“A lot of people have been blinded by the idea of just being famous,” Basketmouth said, emphasizing that many focus solely on the spotlight without considering how they got there. “Undermining how one becomes famous – they don’t care. What is your brand equity?”
Addressing the rise of bad publicity as a shortcut to fame, Basketmouth warned against following the wrong examples.
“Bad publicity is bad publicity. People are blinded by the fact that it’s working for someone else. Don’t ever be deceived by what you see on social media. Most of our people, it’s all fake. They are trying to make you look fake. People will talk about you for a few weeks, and that’s it.”
Basketmouth
One of the most significant dangers of social media fame is the illusion of instant gratification. Platforms designed for quick consumption create unrealistic expectations about success.
A single viral video or post leads to millions of views, likes, and followers, but this fleeting moment of fame often masks the hard work and dedication required to build a sustainable career.
Many aspiring talents find themselves disillusioned when they realize that maintaining relevance in the digital world requires consistent effort, creativity, and resilience.
The fear of not living up to their audience’s expectations leads to anxiety, depression, and burnout. Furthermore, negative comments and online harassment exacerbate these feelings, making it essential for creators to develop strong coping mechanisms and support systems.
It is crucial for creators to establish boundaries regarding what they share online and to be aware of the potential consequences of their digital footprints.
The rise of social media influencers has led to a new economy, where brands seek to partner with individuals with significant online followings. While this provides lucrative opportunities, it also opens the door to exploitation.
Aspiring talents find themselves pressured to endorse products or services that do not align with their values, risking their authenticity and credibility.
Fleeting Nature of Fame
The digital landscape is constantly evolving, with trends changing rapidly. What is popular today is forgotten tomorrow, making it challenging for aspiring talents to maintain their relevance.
Many creators experience a “fame bubble,” where their popularity peaks quickly but just as swiftly deflates.
This precarious nature of social media fame underscores the importance of diversifying one’s skill set and exploring various avenues for creative expression, rather than relying solely on one platform or trend.
The comedian highlighted the fleeting nature of viral fame, urging listeners to think long-term.
“Can you sustain what you have generated in two weeks for twenty years? What do you have to sell? What do you have to offer? What kind of brand do you want to represent?”
Basketmouth
In an environment saturated with curated content and highlight reels, authenticity has become a valuable currency.
Audiences are increasingly drawn to creators who present genuine, relatable experiences rather than polished personas.
The filmmaker continued with a powerful message for upcoming creatives: “Don’t sell your brand for two weeks of fame, you will give birth to children later.” He emphasized the importance of authenticity and lasting value over short-lived attention.
Aspiring talents should focus on cultivating their unique voice and staying true to themselves, rather than succumbing to the pressure to conform to trends or expectations.
For aspiring talents, navigating the world of social media fame requires a strategic approach.
Basketmouth shared a personal strategy for staying positive.
“Sometimes you just have to pray to God specifically for joy. Say, ‘God, I want to feel joy in my heart every day.’ When you radiate that positive energy, it comes.”
Basketmouth
While the allure of social media fame is enticing, aspiring talents must approach it with caution and awareness.
By understanding the potential dangers and taking proactive steps to protect their mental health, privacy, and authenticity, creators navigate the complexities of the digital world more effectively.
Ultimately, the journey to success in the realm of social media is not just about gaining followers or likes; it is about building a meaningful and sustainable career that aligns with one’s values and passions.
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