Megan Boni, also known as Girl on Couch, has captured the attention of TikTok users with her viral song that playfully mocks the notion of an “ideal man.” What initially began as a light-hearted jest has evolved into a widespread sensation, drawing the participation of prominent figures and even Singapore’s Ministry of Defence.
The 27-year-old native of New York shared the original video with the caption, “Did I just write the song of the summer?” Unbeknownst to her, the 19-second clip would give rise to numerous remixes and parodies, accumulating an impressive forty million views and propelling her to viral stardom.
Contrary to the tongue-in-cheek lyrics of her TikTok, Megan has informed BBC Newsbeat that she is not earnestly seeking a tall banker with significant financial means. In reality, the genesis of the meme emerged from her vexation with the dynamics of dating app culture. She asserts that dating apps have exacerbated the difficulty of establishing genuine connections by perpetuating unattainable standards.
Despite the track being accused by some of objectifying men, Megan refutes such assertions, emphasizing that the song was conceived as a playful jest. It represents a satirical commentary on the unattainable standards that women, including herself, frequently impose within the contemporary dating scene.
Curiously, Megan did not initially intend to embark on a music career. However, she has now secured a publishing agreement with Universal Music Group, the label responsible for some of the industry’s biggest luminaries. Despite the success of her viral sensation, she currently harbours limited interest in producing additional music or pursuing a complete album.
Instead, she is content to allow the song to enjoy its moment in the online sphere, expressing her reluctance to artificially contrive a sequel for fear of it not meeting the standard set by the original. She has her sights set on her other passions, desiring to explore opportunities in acting and comedy once the excitement surrounding the song subsides. She confides that her ultimate aspiration is to join the cast of Saturday Night Live.
Megan is still acclimating to the tumult of her newfound celebrity, particularly given that she had never envisioned herself becoming a musician or an overnight sensation. However, she is thankful for the opportunities that have arisen from this experience and aspires to channel it into pursuits that genuinely resonate with her. This unforeseen odyssey has undeniably been turbulent, yet she eagerly anticipates the prospects that lie ahead.