15 Years of 'Friday': Rebecca Black's Viral Video Comeback

Once mocked, the singer has found success as an electronic pop artist and DJ

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Fifteen years after the release of her viral hit "Friday," Rebecca Black has overcome the initial ridicule and cyberbullying to establish herself as a successful electronic pop singer and DJ. Black, who was just 13 years old when the video was released in 2011, has since released two albums, opened for Katy Perry's 2025 tour, and performed at major music festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza.

Why it matters

Black's story highlights the challenges of sudden viral fame, especially for young artists, and how she was able to overcome the initial backlash to find success on her own terms. Her journey also reflects the evolving nature of the music industry and the growing acceptance of electronic and dance music.

The details

The "Friday" music video, which featured Black singing about her daily routine leading up to the weekend, went viral in 2011, jumping from 4,000 views to over 13 million in a single week. Black, who was from Anaheim Hills, California, was quickly thrust into the spotlight and faced intense cyberbullying and ridicule. However, she persevered, working towards her dream of becoming a singer. In recent years, Black has found success as an electronic pop artist and club DJ, booking gigs at major music festivals and opening for Katy Perry's 2025 tour.

  • The "Friday" music video was released on February 10, 2011.
  • The video went viral a month later, after being mentioned on the blog for the Comedy Central show "Tosh.0".
  • Black's first interview with the Orange County Register was published on March 27, 2011.
  • Black made her live concert debut at the House of Blues Anaheim in December 2012.
  • Black performed at the Coachella music festival in March 2022.

The players

Rebecca Black

A singer and DJ who rose to viral fame in 2011 with her song "Friday" when she was just 13 years old. She has since released two albums and performed at major music festivals.

Daniel Tosh

A comedian who mentioned Black's "Friday" video on the blog for his Comedy Central show "Tosh.0", helping to propel the video to viral status.

Georgina Kelly

Black's mother, who spoke out to set the record straight on rumors about her daughter's "Tonight Show" appearance.

Katy Perry

A pop star who had Black as the opening act for 20 shows on her 2025 arena tour.

Peter Larsen

A journalist who conducted the first interview with Black for the Orange County Register after the "Friday" video went viral.

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What they’re saying

“The way she has faced one of the most horrible cases of cyberbullying while being a teenager, and she still decided to pursue her dreams. She's an icon.”

— @dwaotyy (X)

“The redemption arc of Rebecca Black needs to be studied. This is gold!”

— @tomblundell94 (Instagram)

“Suuuuper divalicious of my 13 yr old self let's be honest”

— Rebecca Black (X)

What’s next

Black is expected to release a third album later this year, continuing her comeback as an electronic pop artist and DJ.

The takeaway

Rebecca Black's story is a testament to the resilience of young artists in the face of intense public scrutiny and cyberbullying. Her ability to reinvent herself and find success on her own terms serves as an inspiration for others seeking to overcome adversity and pursue their creative passions.