The TikTok ceiling challenge has quickly become the latest sensation sweeping through social media, requiring nothing more than a phone, a bit of tape, and a dash of bravery for those slightly wary of heights. Unlike the more contentious trends that have cast a shadow over social media’s more enjoyable aspects, this challenge is about bringing people together, fostering unity rather than division.
What is the TikTok ceiling challenge?
The essence of the TikTok ceiling challenge lies in affixing your phone to the ceiling with tape and dancing beneath the camera. Central to this trend is the song “Surround Sound” by J.I.D, featuring 21 Savage and Baby Tate, which fuels the challenge with its dynamic beat.
This infectious rhythm has inspired over 57,000 videos on TikTok, with users grooving to the tune. The popularity of the challenge is evident in the staggering 320 million views accumulated under the viral hashtag #CeilingChallenge. While many top videos feature people twerking, other creators have embraced the challenge with even more adventurous interpretations.
Cross-platform creative explosion
Originally a TikTok sensation, the ceiling challenge has now spilled over to Instagram and other online platforms. Creators worldwide are pushing the boundaries of creativity, adding their personal flair to the challenge. These social media platforms have transformed into vibrant galleries of artistic expression. Not every attempt is seamless, though, as some viral videos humorously showcase the mishaps and adorable blunders that occur.
The mastermind behind this burgeoning trend is 17-year-old Josiah Lebante, an aspiring filmmaker from the Philippines. Drawing inspiration from filmmaker Karl Shakur’s overhead shots, Josiah’s simple act of taping his phone to the ceiling during a lunch break with friends sparked a global phenomenon. What started as a fun experiment among a group of friends has now captivated audiences worldwide.

Josiah Lebante, a 17-year-old aspiring filmmaker, is the creative force behind the TikTok Ceiling Challenge. His innovative concept, influenced by Karl Shakur’s top-down cinematography, began with a simple idea during a lunch break with friends. By taping his phone to the ceiling, Josiah set in motion a trend that would transcend his native Philippines and capture the imaginations of millions worldwide.
The TikTok ceiling challenge stands out for its ease, inclusivity, and the boundless creativity it inspires. For those eager to add a dash of fun to their social media presence, this challenge offers a perfect opportunity. All it takes is some tape, a ceiling, and a willingness to join a global community of enthusiastic participants.