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Top Influencers on TikTok And Instagram In 2024

  • Writer: Dev CultureX
    Dev CultureX
  • Dec 16, 2024
  • 11 min read

Updated: Mar 7

Introduction 

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing social media has been booning for a significant reason and that is influencer marketing. Influencer marketing has become a crucial strategy for brands looking to connect with their target audience and engage with them. Influenzer is one such platform that allows brands to connect with desired influencers and convey their message to the audience. We understand the importance of leveraging influencers to elevate your brand's presence. Whether you're new to influencer marketing or looking to refine your strategy, this blog will guide you through the essentials and introduce you to some of the top influencers across popular platforms like Instagram, and TikTok. 


Role Of Top Influencers In Digital Marketing And Content Creation 

It is always better to test the waters before getting into it. Whether you have been in the digital marketing and content creation for a day or a year understanding different variables especially influencers who are the heroes of the campaigns is extremely crucial. Every influencer is unique and has a specific set of audiences. You need to understand while choosing influencers whether his/her target audience (TG) is your TG or not. If yes, then collaborating with these top influencers can result in more authentic and meaningful interactions with potential customers. Top influencers have a significant reach. Partnering with them can dramatically increase brand visibility and awareness. 

In today’s competitive landscape, everyone wants to stay a step ahead of their competitors hence, knowing who the top influencers are and what they are promoting provides a benchmark for competitive analysis. Also, Building relationships with top influencers can provide a competitive edge, especially if competitors have not yet tapped into these valuable resources. Different platforms have unique audience dynamics. Knowing the top influencers on each platform (e.g., Instagram, TikTok, Facebook) will enable you to customize your approach. Additionally, collaborating with influencers who are active across multiple platforms can amplify the reach and impact of marketing campaigns. 


Top TikTok Influencers

1) Khaby Lame 


Followers 162.5M
Followers 162.5M

Niche: Silent Comedy 

Today, Khaby Lame is the top TikTok influencer because of his unique, universally relatable content, consistent posting, and authentic personality. He knows very well how to effectively use social media platforms and strategic collaborations. His ability to connect with a diverse global audience through humor and simplicity has made him a standout figure in the influencer landscape.

Here is why he made it to the list: 


Unique Content

Khaby’s content revolves around his expressive silent reactions to absurd and overly complicated "life hacks" and viral videos. He has stuck to such videos and has patented it with his unique expressions and body language. If a person doesn't recognize him with his name he/she will definitely recognize his face and that's what compels people to know more about him and watch his content. 


Highly Relatable

Khaby’s videos often depict everyday situations and common sense solutions, making his content highly relatable. He showcases how simple logic can solve problems that are often made to appear more difficult than they are. 


No Language Barrier

His content doesn't rely on any language, making his content accessible to a global audience. No matter if you are sitting in China, the US, or India, his content seems funny, relatable, and acceptable everywhere. 


Reaction Videos

A major chunk of his videos are reaction videos which are one of the most popular types of content. He leverages this type of content with any viral topic or trend which makes it a success. 


Do People Listen to Him? 

It seems like it! He has about 16.2 followers. The main reason is that he doesn’t seem an arrogant or preachy individual. He simply points out the absurdity of some life hacks and offers a more practical solution. This down-to-earth, "everyman" quality makes him relatable and likable.


Followers 154.5M
Followers 154.5M

Niche: Dance, Lifestyle

Charli started posting dance videos on TikTok and quickly became one of its biggest stars. With over 154.5  million followers on TikTok and 44.1 million followers on instagram, her influence spans various niches. Brands like Dunkin Donuts and Prada have successfully collaborated with Charli to reach vast audiences. But this is all basic information, anyone can tell you this 


Here is why she made it to the list: 


First Mover Advantage

Charli found success on TikTok early on when the platform was still gaining massive popularity. This gave her a head start in building a large following.


Dance skills and viral trends

Her talent as a dancer and her knack for creating catchy dance routines that went viral ("Renegade", and "Lottery" challenge) were a big part of her initial success. This was the beginning of her success as she became a trendsetter and people started replicating the trends themselves.


Real Content

While dance remains a core part of her content, Charli has branched out to include comedy skits, vlogs, and glimpses into her daily life. She tries to be as real as possible in front of the audience. And she has chosen to show her lifestyle to the audience which has created a bond of trust between her and the audience. Despite her fame, Charli maintains a down-to-earth personality that resonates with her young audience.  She seems like someone they could be friends with, which makes her more relatable than some celebrities.


No Filter Content

She showcases the dynamic between her and her sister Dixie, who is also a successful influencer without any filters, which adds another layer of entertainment and personal touch to their content. People enjoy seeing their sibling bond and the behind-the-scenes glimpses into their family life.


Do People Listen to Her? 

That's a valid question. While Charli has a massive audience, it's important to remember that her core demographic leans younger.  They likely follow her for entertainment and a glimpse into the life of a young influencer,  not necessarily for in-depth analysis of serious issues. However, her influence can still be positive. 


3. Mr. Beast (James Stephen Donaldson)

Followers 280M
Followers 280M

Niche: Giveaways, Challenges and Entertainment

Jimmy Donaldson, aka MrBeast, started on YouTube at 13 with the channel MrBeast6000. His early content focused on Let's Plays, particularly Call of Duty and Minecraft, and estimating the wealth of other YouTubers.A shift came in 2017 with the "counting to 100,000" video, which went viral. This marked the beginning of MrBeast's signature style – high-budget, high-energy challenges with massive payouts. 


Here is why he made it to the list: 


Philanthropy

He's not afraid to use his platform for good. MrBeast co-created Team Trees, a fundraiser that raised over $23 million for the Arbor Day Foundation, and Team Seas, raising over $30 million for ocean cleanup efforts. These initiatives showcase his genuine desire to care and to give back.


Innovation is his middle name

These initiatives showcase his genuine desire to give back. Mr Beast's reach extends beyond his 280 million+ subscriber YouTube channel (the most-subscribed ever). He's launched Mr Beast Burger, a virtual restaurant chain, and has appeared in movies. His influence is undeniable, making him a pop culture icon.


Do People Listen to Him? 

When it comes to Mr. Beast, "listen" might not be the most accurate term. Here's a breakdown of how people engage with him:


  • Watch

    Mr Beast's primary platform is YouTube, where people watch his high-production challenges, giveaways, and philanthropic efforts.


  • Follow

    Millions follow him on social media (though he doesn't have a personal TikTok account). This allows them to stay updated and potentially participate in some of his content.


  • Engage

    People actively engage with his content by commenting, sharing, and participating in online discussions about his stunts and philanthropy.


  • Get Inspired

    Mr Beast's success motivates some viewers to create their own challenges or philanthropic endeavors, spreading his influence further.


So, while people might not literally listen to him in the traditional sense, they definitely watch, follow, engage with, and are potentially inspired by Mr Beast's content. 



Followers 93.8M
Followers 93.8M

Niche: Music


Known for her lip-syncing and musical talent, Bella Poarch has become a TikTok sensation. Her engaging content and collaborations with brands in the music industry have propelled her to fame, making her a great choice for music and entertainment brands.


Here is why she made it to the list: 


Emotional Vulnerability

Bella has spoken openly about her struggles with depression and PTSD, connecting with a large audience facing similar challenges. Showcasing vulnerability is a huge step as it helps other people to open up and connect which worked for her. This vulnerability adds depth to her persona.


Musical Transformation

She's transitioned beyond lip-syncing, releasing her own music with a signature dark pop sound. She didn’t stick to just lip-syncing, this artistic exploration showcases her musical talent and expands her creative reach. 


Advocacy for Mental Health

She was one of the very few creators who leveraged the platform for something unsaid or underrated i.e. mental health awareness. This genuine concern for her audience goes beyond entertainment and highlights her empathy.


Voice Acting Debut

She was on a quest to try out new things and experiment. This might surprise many, but Bella recently voiced a character in the video game "DokeV" by Pearl Abyss. This venture showcases her evolving skillset and willingness to explore different forms of expression. Also, it kept the audience hooked and wanting more. 


Do People Listen to Her? 

While traditional "listening" may not be the most fitting term, Bella Poarch's influence is undeniable. People engage with her content on multiple levels, connecting with her emotions, supporting her ventures, and drawing inspiration from her creativity and vulnerability.


5. Addison Rae

Followers 88.6M
Followers 88.6M

Niche: Dance, Fashion


Rising to fame on TikTok in 2019, Addison Rae gained a massive following (88 million+) with dance videos and an engaging personality. Addison Rae gained popularity for her dance videos and has since diversified into fashion and lifestyle content. She has worked with brands like American Eagle and L'Oréal to reach her extensive audience. Joining the Hype House, a group of TikTok stars, further boosted her visibility and collaborations. She's leveraged her fame beyond TikTok, venturing into music (debut single "Obsessed") and acting (Netflix's "He's All That").


Here is why she made it to the list: 


Dance Skills

Her background in competitive dance resulted in captivating dance routines that resonated with viewers. Her dance skills and overall style inspire aspiring dancers and content creators. Some may also use her work as a springboard for their creative endeavors.


Trendsetting

Addison Rae's dance routines often go viral, inspiring fans to learn and recreate them. This two-way street has created a sense of community and shared experience. Fans also analyze and discuss her dance moves, which solidifies her impact on the art form within TikTok. 


Empowering Fans

Her bubbly personality and willingness to have fun on camera can be seen as empowering, which encourages fans to embrace their individuality and express themselves creatively.


Do People Listen to Her? 

Fans devour her content, analyze dance trends, discuss her music, and share their opinions on social media. She is an inspiration to many as her influence inspires fans to create their dance routines, participate in TikTok challenges she starts, and potentially even pursue similar career paths. 


Top Influencers on Instagram

Instagram is a hub for visual content and influencer marketing. Here are some of the top influencers on Instagram:


1. Cristiano Ronaldo

Followers 631M
Followers 631M

Niche: Sports

Cristiano Ronaldo is not only a football legend but also one of the most followed personalities on Instagram. He collaborates with brands like Nike and Clear Men to promote sports and lifestyle products. Cristiano Ronaldo, a name synonymous with soccer excellence. His journey began in Portugal, where his raw talent and relentless work ethic were quickly recognized. He rose to superstardom with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, leading each team to numerous victories. 


Why do people love Him? 


Undisputed Talent

Many people have referred to him as the god of football. His combination of speed, skill, and finishing ability makes him a force to be reckoned with on the field.


Relentless Drive

What inspires people is Ronaldo's dedication to training and fitness which is legendary, pushing the boundaries of athletic performance.


Leadership & Inspiration

He leads by example, motivating teammates and inspiring aspiring footballers worldwide. Beyond trophies, Ronaldo inspires with his dedication to fitness, self-improvement, and an unwavering desire to win. People’s love towards him is so pure and passionate that it sometimes sparks debates among his fans about his on-field decisions and playing style 


2. Selena Gomez

Followers 427M
Followers 427M

Niche: Music, Fashion and Beauty 

Selena Gomez is a singer and actress who uses Instagram to connect with her fans and promote her music. She partners with brands like Coach and PUMA for fashion and lifestyle campaigns. Selena began her career as a Disney Channel star, captivating audiences with her bubbly personality. She transitioned into a successful singer, songwriter, and actress, showcasing her artistic versatility.  Beyond entertainment, she's become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness.


Why People Love Her?


Authenticity & Growth

Selena has openly shared her struggles with mental health and personal challenges. This vulnerability resonates with fans who connect with her journey of self-acceptance and growth.


Musical Evolution

From catchy pop anthems to soulful ballads, Selena's music continuously evolves. This artistic exploration keeps fans engaged and excited to see what she creates next.


Philanthropic Heart

Selena is passionate about giving back. She uses her platform to raise awareness for mental health issues and has launched her own clothing line to support mental health initiatives.


Relatable Role Model

Selena's struggles and triumphs resonate with fans who see her as a relatable figure. She inspires them to embrace their vulnerabilities and fight for their well-being.


Empowering

Many of Selena's songs celebrate self-love, resilience, and overcoming adversity. This message of empowerment is a source of strength for her fans. Selena's social media presence is a beacon of positivity and self-care. She encourages her fans to embrace their individuality and prioritize their mental health.


3. Kylie Jenner

Followers 388M
Followers 388M

Niche: Beauty, Fashion 

Kylie rose to fame on the reality show Keeping Up With The Kardashians alongside her family. Kylie is a beauty mogul and the genz are going gaga over her. Along with being a model she is an entrepreneur too. She leveraged that platform to launch Kylie Cosmetics, a brand that turned her into the youngest self-made billionaire ever. She has also partnered with luxury fashion brands like Balmain and Givenchy for fashion collaborations. 


Why People Love Her? 


Entrepreneurial Spirit

Jenner built a billion-dollar business from the ground up. Her success story inspires young people to pursue their dreams.


Social Media Savvy

Kylie is a master of using Instagram to connect with her audience. She shares glimpses into her luxurious lifestyle, promotes her brand, and interacts with fans, creating a sense of intimacy. 


Trendsetter

Jenner is a major trendsetter in the fashion and beauty world. Her ever-changing hairstyles and makeup look influence millions of fans who try to emulate her style.


Self-Made Success

Kylie's journey from reality TV star to business mogul resonates with people who admire her work ethic and ability to turn ideas into empires. Kylie exudes confidence and self-assurance. Fans admire her ability to navigate the spotlight and embrace her ever-evolving image.


Authenticity (with a twist)

While some aspects of Kylie's life are curated for social media, she also shares relatable moments about motherhood, friendships, and the challenges of balancing work and personal life. Kylie's close bond with her famous family adds another layer of intrigue to her persona. Fans enjoy seeing snippets of their extravagant lifestyle and the unbreakable family ties.


4. Kendall Jenner 

Followers 293M
Followers 293M

Niche: Fashion 

Coming into the spotlight after the success of Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Kendall carved her path as a high-fashion model.  She has walked for top brands like Chanel, Versace, and Givenchy, becoming one of the most sought-after models of her generation.


Why People Love Her?


Breakthrough Model

Despite her family's fame, Kendall's success in the modeling industry is based on her own talent and work ethic. She broke barriers, challenging the idea of nepotism in the fashion world.


Versatility

Versatility is her A-game. Kendall can adapt to any style, going from edgy to glamorous with ease. This versatility keeps her in demand for a wide range of fashion campaigns.


Business Acumen

She didn’t stop after being successful in the fashion industry. Beyond modeling, Kendall has built her brand through collaborations with clothing lines and launching her tequila brand, 818


Relatable Style

While Kendall's modeling career involves high fashion, her style is more relatable. Which is admired by her fans and brings her closer to them. She often showcases street-style looks that inspire fans to experiment with fashion.


Miss Mysterious

Compared to her siblings, Kendall maintains a more private persona. This air of mystery intrigues fans who are curious about her life beyond the runway.


5. Taylor Swift

Followers 283.7M
Followers 283.7M

Niche: Music

Taylor Swift’s career began as a country sensation, she instantly took over everyone’s heart with her relatable lyrics about teenage love and heartbreak.  She has since evolved into a global pop phenomenon, continuously pushing musical boundaries and experimenting with new sounds.


Why People Love Her?


Storytelling

Swift's music is known for its vivid narratives, what makes everyone fall in love with her is relatability as she often draws inspiration from her own life experiences. Fans connects with her deeply with the emotions she weaves into her lyrics. Swift's lyrics capture the universal experiences of love, loss, friendship, and self-discovery. Fans find solace and inspiration in her music.


Evolution

Unlike some artists who stick to a successful formula, Swift constantly reinvents herself musically. This artistic growth keeps her fans engaged and excited for each new release. 


Fan Engagement

She treats all of her fans as her own. Swift is known for her incredible connection with her fans, affectionately called "Swifties." She interacts with them on social media, shares behind-the-scenes glimpses, and even incorporates fan theories into her music videos.


Empowerment

Many of Swift's songs celebrate female strength and resilience. She has helped several women find their true selves and empowered them. 




 
 
 

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