Zara Larsson and dolphin memes
Zara Larsson has successfully revitalized her music career, turning a viral TikTok meme into a powerful rebranding tool. The Swedish pop star, who once dominated the charts, faced a challenging period characterized by underwhelming releases. In early 2024, a resurgence began when her 2017 collaboration, “Symphony,” with Clean Bandit, became the soundtrack to a popular meme featuring vibrant dolphin imagery. The trend propelled “Symphony” to the top of the Billboard TikTok chart, demonstrating the unique influence of social media on music today.
Larsson embraced the meme’s popularity, humorously noting on TikTok, “Trying to think of ways to milk this dolphin trend so I can sell out my US tour.” The artist capitalized on this moment, incorporating the dolphin visuals into her live performances, which delighted fans. This move marked the beginning of a significant aesthetic transformation for Larsson, as she adopted a seaside siren look inspired by “Barbie in a Mermaid Tale.” Her new style features bold, colorful makeup, shimmering outfits, and her signature beachy blonde hair.
In June 2025, Larsson released her single “Midnight Sun,” which shares its name with her upcoming album. The album’s special edition artwork includes a vibrant under-the-sea theme, echoing the aesthetics of renowned artist Lisa Frank, with whom Larsson collaborated for the project. This partnership reflects a broader trend where artists are increasingly drawing inspiration from nostalgic and colorful designs.
As Larsson tours to promote “Midnight Sun,” she has gained renewed attention for her choreography in “Lush Life,” a track that has re-emerged in popularity nearly eleven years after its initial release. The accompanying dance has sparked a viral sensation, with fans actively participating by joining her on stage during performances. This interactive approach has not only rejuvenated interest in Larsson’s earlier works but also highlighted the transformative power of social media in shaping contemporary pop culture.
As she navigates this new phase, Larsson joins the ranks of artists like Chappell Roan and Charli XCX, who experienced resurgent success after years in the industry. Roan’s 2024 hit “Good Luck Babe” revitalized interest in her previous works, while Charli XCX’s recent projects have led to a notable increase in the popularity of her older tracks, showcasing how social media can breathe new life into an artist’s catalog.
Larsson’s presence in the industry continues to grow, especially following her appearance in a remix of PinkPantheress’ “Stateside.” The collaboration further cements her status as a rising pop icon. Given the trajectory of her career and the significant traction she has gained, many are betting on Zara Larsson as the next major pop star to dominate the music scene.
With her vibrant aesthetic and captivating performances, Larsson not only appeals to existing fans but also attracts new audiences eager to experience her artistry. The rebirth of her career, fueled by a simple meme, illustrates the unpredictable nature of the music industry and the ever-evolving dynamics between artists and their audiences.
