Kesha’s Remarkable Journey: From ‘Tik Tok’ to Diamond-Certified Success

Kesha’s career has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, filled with highs and lows that have shaped her into the resilient artist she is today. Her breakout single ‘Tik Tok’ has recently achieved an incredible milestone by being certified 12x platinum, making it her second diamond-certified track. This monumental achievement underscores not only the song’s enduring popularity but also Kesha’s lasting impact on the music industry. Released in 2009, ‘Tik Tok’ quickly became a cultural phenomenon, capturing the zeitgeist of the late 2000s with its infectious beat and carefree lyrics. The song’s success catapulted Kesha into the limelight, establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in pop music.

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) awards certifications based on the number of units sold, with diamond status being the pinnacle of success, signifying 10 million equivalent units. This includes both physical purchases and streaming equivalents, reflecting the changing landscape of music consumption. ‘Tik Tok’ was previously certified eight-times platinum, but its continued popularity has now pushed it to 12-times platinum, solidifying its place in music history. Kesha joins a select group of artists who have multiple diamond-certified hits, a testament to her widespread appeal and the timeless quality of her music.

In addition to ‘Tik Tok,’ Kesha’s collaboration with Pitbull, ‘Timber,’ had already earned diamond status, though there has been some ambiguity about whether the certification applies to Kesha or Pitbull. Regardless, this achievement highlights Kesha’s versatility and ability to create hits across different genres. Her discography is a treasure trove of chart-topping singles and fan favorites, many of which have also received significant recognition from the RIAA. Songs like ‘Blow,’ ‘Praying,’ and ‘Your Love is My Drug’ have all been certified five-times platinum, while older tracks such as ‘Grow a Pear,’ ‘Backstabber,’ and ‘Raising Hell’ have achieved gold status.

‘Tik Tok’ not only marked a pivotal moment in Kesha’s career but also signaled a shift in mainstream pop music towards electronic sounds. The song debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remained there for nine consecutive weeks, a feat that few artists can boast. Its influence extended beyond the charts, becoming a defining track during the early years of the social media platform TikTok, which has since become a global phenomenon. The song’s catchy hook and party anthem vibe made it a staple at clubs, parties, and social gatherings, cementing its status as a timeless hit.

Kesha’s journey to this point has been fraught with challenges, including legal battles and personal struggles. Despite these obstacles, she has emerged stronger and more determined than ever. Her recent release, ‘Joyride,’ serves as a testament to her resilience and creative evolution. The high-energy track has been embraced as a summer anthem and pride favorite, gaining momentum on Billboard’s dance charts. ‘Joyride’ reflects Kesha’s renewed focus on freedom and self-expression, themes that resonate deeply with her fanbase.

The news of ‘Tik Tok’s’ diamond certification comes amidst a turbulent time for the music industry, with various controversies and legal issues making headlines. One such case involves rapper and producer Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, who has faced several allegations of sexual misconduct. In response to these allegations, Kesha has revised the lyrics of ‘Tik Tok’ to include a pointed change referencing Combs. The new lyric, which debuted during a Coachella performance in April 2024, now says ‘wake up in the morning like f*** p. diddy.’ Kesha announced on social media that this change is permanent and that she is proud of it, highlighting her commitment to protecting her own joy and taking a stand against sexual misconduct.

Kesha’s decision to alter the lyrics of ‘Tik Tok’ is a bold move that has been praised by her fans. It serves as a powerful statement in support of victims of sexual misconduct and aligns with the broader #MeToo movement. By using her platform to bring awareness to these issues, Kesha continues to demonstrate her dedication to social justice and advocacy. This change also underscores the ongoing conversation about sexual assault and harassment in the music industry, a topic that has gained significant attention in recent years.

In addition to her musical achievements, Kesha has been recognized for her contributions to the industry by fellow artists. Lady Gaga, for instance, has publicly expressed her support for Kesha, Taylor Swift, and others, stating that her heart is with them. This solidarity among female artists highlights the importance of unity and mutual support in an industry that can often be challenging and competitive. Kesha’s impact and continued relevance are evident not only in her music but also in the respect and admiration she receives from her peers.

The success of ‘Tik Tok’ and Kesha’s other hits showcases her ability to create long-lasting, iconic songs that resonate with audiences. Her debut album ‘Animal’ is now 4x platinum, with tracks like ‘Your Love is My Drug’ and ‘Blow’ reaching 5x platinum. Other notable certifications include ‘Blah Blah Blah’ (3x platinum), ‘Cannibal’ (album, 2x platinum), and ‘Warrior’ (album, platinum). These accolades reflect Kesha’s talent and determination, as well as her ability to adapt and evolve in an ever-changing industry.

Despite the challenges she has faced, Kesha remains a significant figure in pop music. Her music continues to resonate with fans, old and new, and her ability to push boundaries and challenge norms sets her apart from her contemporaries. With her latest milestone, Kesha cements her position as a major force in the music industry, demonstrating that her influence and impact are far from waning.

Looking ahead, Kesha shows no signs of slowing down. She plans to re-record ‘Tik Tok’ with the revised lyrics as soon as legally possible, a move that will undoubtedly generate significant interest and further solidify her legacy. Her continued success and ability to stay relevant in an ever-evolving industry are a testament to her talent, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her craft.

As Kesha embarks on this new era of her career, focused on freedom and self-expression, her fans eagerly await what she will do next. Whether through new music, bold statements, or advocacy work, Kesha continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. Her journey from ‘Tik Tok’ to diamond-certified success is a remarkable story of perseverance, creativity, and the power of music to connect and uplift.