A fresh TikTok phenomenon has surfaced, centering around the so-called Group 7 — an exclusive collective that has taken over the app and starred in many trending videos lately.
What exactly is Group 7?
Group 7 is a TikTok challenge kicked off by singer Sophia James to promote her latest single, “So Unfair.” She posted seven similar videos, with the video that appears on your For You Page deciding your “group.” It began with James sharing her song alongside a parking ticket, followed by six additional clips, culminating in the final one labeled Group 7.
“I hereby proclaim that group 7 is the most prestigious group,” remarked one user, garnering nearly 250,000 likes.
The last post turned into an inside joke for those part of Group 7. With James’s video hitting 17 million views and 2.3 million likes, the “exclusive” membership has expanded greatly.
“I was merely trying to promote my song,” James stated to Mashable. “However, the way this is uniting people is a dream realized.”
The trend has taken off, with over 55,000 videos labeled Group 7. These encompass dance routines, explanatory videos, and monologues discussing Group 7 characteristics.
With over 17 million views, it seems like everyone is currently a member of Group 7 — or at least acting as if they are.
Similar to previous viral trends, this phenomenon aligns with a TikTok strategy: creators establishing “in-groups” to enhance engagement. Consider OnlyFans creators sharing two dance renditions or anime enthusiasts categorizing users into teams based on their birth months.
James is excited about the success of her videos and is planning a real-life Group 7 gathering on Friday, October 24, in London, England.
“This is the most hilarious thing I’ve ever witnessed, and I believe you should all convene in person,” states a message on James’s website.