Trinidad Cardona

"I woke up with seven million views," Trinidad Cardona explains matter-of-factly over the phone. The story of how his song "Jennifer" blew up and earned the 18-year-old Arizona-based artist a legion of fans in Brazil is a modern case study on the power and speed of the internet, but it's more than luck and randomness.

A viral moment was the catalyst, but talent, character, and charisma are all essential elements that got Trinidad Cardona where he is today. As a black/Mexican kid raised by two lesbian mothers and exposed to ignorance and adversity, Cardona has responded by embracing and promoting love and acceptance. His positivity is infectious, and his spirit is magnetic. He's got star qualities and the music to match, and as millions are getting exposed to it, they're all agreeing that it's something worth sharing. [Pigeons & Planes]