For a time, I enjoyed TikTok, making content using music (lipsyncing) and trying my hand at improving my confidence on camera (and leveling up my video/audio editing skills). Now, I completely agree with you on the way the videos hit.

Even though all platforms let creators go to at least a minute (TikTok allows up to 30 minutes for many creators), there are still tons of people that are doing the multi part B.S. with 15 to 30 second videos just to get views and followers. It is annoying and I simply block them.

At least with YouTube, you have the option to go to widescreen, long form as it is called now, content and enjoy the full story in one sitting.

TikTok is clearly moving from licensed music with how they push "information" videos now. I think it is more "your voice" content that they don't have to pay royalties or licensing fees to use is what they are really pushing.

It is sad to see how much power companies have over creativity. It reminds me of TLC doing an interview discussing their time at the top of the charts - they were splitting something like 35 cents per CD sold, less for singles, and even less for radio/television use of their music. Meanwhile, the corporation was selling those CDs for $15+ each, singles for $3+, and millions in licensing fees, collectively, for use of the music in movies and TV shows.

Just sad.