By: Joshua Finley
In the world of music, some artists make their mark through profound lyrics or virtuosic talent, while others use humor and relatability to connect with their audience. Fargo-based musician Owen Piehl has managed to strike a perfect balance between the two. As the lead singer of the local band Tailspin, Piehl is no stranger to the world of performance, but it was his viral TikTok hit “Where is My Zyn?” that catapulted him into the spotlight. The parody song, which humorously laments the frustration of losing a nicotine pouch, has garnered over 4 million views on the platform.
While Piehl’s viral success may seem like an overnight sensation to some, it’s the product of years of creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of how to engage audiences. Piehl’s musical career showcases his unique ability to blend humor with melody, making him a standout in today’s crowded music landscape.
Early Influences and Musical Journey
Owen Piehl’s journey into the music world began like many others in his generation—on the internet. Starting out as a SoundCloud rapper, Piehl was drawn to the platform’s open-access nature, which allowed independent artists to upload and share their work without the need for industry backing. Though his early forays into music were focused on hip-hop, Piehl’s time on SoundCloud was instrumental in developing his skills as a songwriter and performer.
Piehl’s style evolved over the years, leading him to explore various musical genres and collaborate with other local artists. His ability to adapt to different musical settings was evident when he became the lead singer of Tailspin, a rock band based in Fargo. This shift from rap to rock highlights Piehl’s versatility and openness to experimenting with different sounds and styles.
As Tailspin’s frontman, Piehl further refined his musical identity, blending elements of alternative rock with his knack for crafting catchy, relatable lyrics. The band became well-known in Fargo’s local music scene, and Piehl’s stage presence as a performer made him a charismatic and engaging figure onstage.
The Breakthrough: “Where is My Zyn?”
Despite years of work in music, it was a humorous parody song that introduced Owen Piehl to the wider world. In 2023, Piehl released “Where is My Zyn?” on TikTok, a parody of the Pixies’ classic “Where Is My Mind?” The song humorously addresses the frustration of losing Zyn nicotine pouches—a common nicotine alternative that has grown in popularity. The combination of a familiar tune with clever, comedic lyrics resonated with millions of TikTok users, quickly amassing over 4 million views.
The success of the parody underscores Piehl’s ability to tap into a niche but relatable topic. By taking something as everyday as the annoyance of losing a personal item and pairing it with a beloved alternative rock track, Piehl created content that was both nostalgic and funny. His sharp wit and ability to craft a song that resonated with a wide audience showcase his skills not just as a musician, but as a storyteller and comedian.
What’s particularly interesting about Piehl’s viral hit is that it doesn’t rely on high production value or intricate songwriting. Instead, it leans into the raw, DIY style that TikTok often rewards, showing that sometimes, all it takes is a great idea and a relatable message to break through the noise.
Humor as a Central Theme in Piehl’s Music
One of the defining characteristics of Owen Piehl’s music, particularly on TikTok, is his use of humor. In an era where attention spans are short and audiences are inundated with content, humor has become an incredibly effective tool for capturing and holding attention. Piehl’s comedic approach sets him apart from other musicians who might rely solely on musicality or technical skill to engage their listeners.
“Where is My Zyn?” is a perfect example of how Piehl uses humor to forge a connection with his audience. The song’s relatable premise, combined with Piehl’s deadpan delivery, makes it instantly memorable. In a platform like TikTok, where trends rise and fall quickly, Piehl’s ability to make his audience laugh gives him a significant advantage in standing out from the crowd.
Humor is not just a one-off tool in Piehl’s arsenal—it’s a central theme in his artistic approach. His ability to infuse comedy into his music allows him to engage listeners on multiple levels, offering both entertainment and relatability in equal measure. This blend of humor and melody is what makes Piehl a unique presence in the modern music scene.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Owen Piehl?
With the viral success of “Where is My Zyn?” propelling him into the spotlight, Owen Piehl finds himself in an exciting position. The attention he’s garnered from TikTok offers new opportunities for growth, both as a solo artist and with his band Tailspin. His viral hit has opened doors, but Piehl remains grounded in his roots as a musician and performer.
As Piehl continues to build his career, his ability to blend humor with music will likely remain a central part of his appeal. Whether he chooses to create more parody content or explore other musical projects, it’s clear that Piehl’s unique perspective and approach will keep audiences engaged.
Piehl’s story is also a testament to the power of social media in today’s music industry. Platforms like TikTok have democratized success, allowing artists from anywhere to find their audience without the traditional gatekeepers of the music world. For Piehl, TikTok has become a launchpad for wider recognition, but it’s his talent and creativity that will sustain him moving forward.
Owen Piehl’s blend of humor and melody has made him a viral sensation, but his success is no accident. With years of experience in music and a keen understanding of how to engage an audience, Piehl has positioned himself as a unique voice in today’s digital-first music industry. As he continues to evolve as an artist, it’s clear that Owen Piehl is more than just a viral hit—he’s a musician with the potential to leave a lasting mark on the industry.
Published By: Aize Perez
