Sam Ryder: TikTok's singing superstar
In 2020, Sam Ryder was the most viewed UK artist on TikTok.
His powerful vocals and short, snappy cover versions meant he built up millions of followers, as well as famous admirers like Justin Bieber and Alicia Keys.
Sam's always been involved in the music industry but hasn't seen success like this before. As a result, he's now releasing his first ever solo single, Whirlwind.
From his home in Essex, he says his lockdown videos meant his popularity surged.
Video by Steve Holden.
Follow Newsbeat on Instagram, external, Facebook, external, Twitter, external and YouTube, external.
Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen back here.
Related topics
- Social mediaUpdates from your News topics will appear in My News and in a collection on the News homepage.
- TikTokUpdates from your News topics will appear in My News and in a collection on the News homepage.
- SiaUpdates from your News topics will appear in My News and in a collection on the News homepage.
- YouTubeUpdates from your News topics will appear in My News and in a collection on the News homepage.
- Britney SpearsUpdates from your News topics will appear in My News and in a collection on the News homepage.
- InstagramUpdates from your News topics will appear in My News and in a collection on the News homepage.
- Justin BieberUpdates from your News topics will appear in My News and in a collection on the News homepage.
- Alicia KeysUpdates from your News topics will appear in My News and in a collection on the News homepage.
- MusicUpdates from your News topics will appear in My News and in a collection on the News homepage.