The intersection of digital self-expression and music is taking a new form on platforms like YouTube and Snapchat, driven by a trend centered around personalized “aesthetic” videos. These short-form videos, often featuring Bitmoji avatars and set to trending songs, are gaining traction, particularly with Doechii’s “What It’s (Block Boy)” featuring Kodak Black becoming a popular soundtrack. This phenomenon reflects a broader shift in how Gen Z and younger millennials are using social media to curate their online identities and connect with others through shared tastes and visual styles. Understanding this aesthetic bitmoji trend requires looking at its components – the visual language, the platform dynamics and the role of music in shaping online communities.
The core of these videos lies in the creation of a visually appealing and personalized aesthetic. Users are leveraging the customization options available in apps like Bitmoji to create avatars that represent their ideal selves or current moods. These avatars are then incorporated into short videos, often accompanied by text overlays, filters, and transitions, all synchronized to the beat of a chosen song. The appeal is multi-faceted: it’s a form of creative expression, a way to signal affiliation with specific subcultures, and a method for building a personal brand online. The trend is particularly visible on Snapchat, where short-form video content is a staple, and increasingly on YouTube Shorts, as creators repurpose and expand upon their Snapchat content.
The Rise of “Aesthetic” Video and Bitmoji
The term “aesthetic” itself has evolved online, moving beyond its traditional art-historical meaning to encompass a curated visual style that conveys a particular mood or identity. On social media, an aesthetic is often defined by a consistent color palette, specific filters, and recurring themes. Bitmoji, acquired by Snapchat in 2016 for a reported $80 million according to The Verge, has develop into a key tool in this process. The ability to create a personalized avatar allows users to inject their personality into their online presence in a way that feels both authentic and stylized. The platform’s integration with Snapchat makes it easy to share these avatars in Stories and direct messages, further fueling the trend.
The current wave of aesthetic videos isn’t entirely new. Similar trends have emerged and faded over the years, often driven by specific songs or challenges. However, the combination of Bitmoji’s widespread adoption, the accessibility of short-form video editing tools, and the virality of platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts has created a particularly fertile ground for this type of content. The emphasis on visual storytelling and personalized expression resonates with a generation that has grown up immersed in digital culture.
Doechii’s “What It Is (Block Boy)” and the Soundtrack to a Trend
The song “What It Is (Block Boy)” by Doechii, featuring Kodak Black, has become almost synonymous with this aesthetic video trend. Released in 2023, the track’s energetic beat and catchy lyrics have made it a popular choice for creators looking to add a dynamic soundtrack to their videos. The song’s popularity is evident in its presence on various social media platforms, with countless videos using the audio. Doechii, whose real name is Laiyah Lifelong, has seen a significant boost in visibility as a result of the trend, demonstrating the power of social media to propel emerging artists.
The song’s appeal extends beyond its musical qualities. Its association with a specific aesthetic – often characterized by bold colors, playful animations, and a sense of confidence – has further solidified its position as a cultural touchstone. The use of the song in these videos creates a sense of community among creators and viewers, reinforcing the trend and encouraging further participation.
Snapchat, YouTube Shorts, and the Future of Short-Form Video
Snapchat remains a central hub for this aesthetic video trend, thanks to its focus on ephemeral content and its built-in creative tools. However, YouTube Shorts is rapidly gaining ground, offering creators a wider audience and more opportunities for monetization. The platform’s algorithm is designed to surface engaging short-form videos, making it easier for creators to reach new viewers. YouTube announced updates to its Shorts monetization program in February 2023, further incentivizing creators to produce high-quality content.
The competition between Snapchat and YouTube Shorts is likely to continue driving innovation in the short-form video space. We can expect to observe new features and tools emerge that cater to the evolving needs of creators and viewers. The emphasis on personalization, visual storytelling, and music integration is likely to remain central to the appeal of these platforms. The trend also highlights the growing importance of user-generated content in shaping online culture and influencing music discovery.
Looking ahead, the evolution of this aesthetic video trend will likely be shaped by emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and augmented reality. AI-powered tools could automate aspects of video editing and personalization, making it even easier for users to create compelling content. AR filters and effects could further enhance the immersive experience, blurring the lines between the physical and digital worlds. The next major development will likely be tied to the next viral sound or challenge that captures the imagination of the online community.
This ongoing evolution of digital self-expression through platforms like Snapchat and YouTube Shorts demonstrates the dynamic nature of online culture. The aesthetic bitmoji trend, fueled by music and creativity, is a testament to the power of social media to connect people and shape identities. Share your thoughts on this trend in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends!
