Forget about television and Netflix, the new world of YouTube is rapidly growing and more entertaining than ever. Nowadays, it’s not just viral cat videos and silly challenges, it has become a place where young opinionated teens can express their feelings and attract others of the same age. Big-time YouTubers like Bethany Mota, Tyler Oakley, and Troye Sivan have reached success by editing and uploading their life every week. Besides the recognition from major artists, the amount of money they each earn is un-imaginable.

YouTubers are taking over the world one step at a time, earning millions just by clicking “record”. 25-year-old Swedish YouTuber, PewDiePie, makes weekly gaming videos that earned him around $7.4 million in 2014. No need to fill out a bunch of job applications or spend years trying to “make it” in Hollywood. Each of these young, famous YouTubers have created a unique brand for themselves that separates them from the average pop star. A trend that seems to be growing in the YouTube world is writing and releasing books. For example, YouTuber Connor Franta released his memoir earlier this year that was sold in bookstores throughout the country.

These young filmmakers have become the new era of celebrities and have willingly been put into the spotlight for everyone to see. Troye Sivan, an Australian YouTuber, started out creating comedic skits and videos on his channel. He then shared his singing talents with his viewers that lead him to fame. Sivan recently came out with his album, Blue Neighborhood, that hit a high note with artists like “Lorde” and “Halsey”. The power of his subscribers helped launch his career and make him the star he is today. The music industry should take note of where these talented teens are coming from- YouTube.

Although it may not seem like it, YouTube is not just for the younger generation to enjoy. There are tutorials for almost any new technique you’re willing to try, like a hairstyle or a cake recipe. Society shouldn’t view the YouTube platform as a silly site to have a laugh, it can actually be beneficial. Instead of paying for piano lessons, you can easily type it into YouTube with hundreds of results popping up. For the beginner chefs out there, an online tutorial can become a homemade pie in an instant, with no use of a cookbook.

Music and entertainment industries should take YouTube, and the people from it, seriously because of the power it provides. Small town people who uploaded low quality videos a year ago, have grown into celebrities just by the click of a button. Not only has YouTube changed people’s lives, it has lead them to bigger and better opportunities to follow their dreams and pursue acting or singing.