The Sweet Taste of Viral Success: Walmart Learns A Lesson From A Surprising Video Review
For business owners wondering how to create video content that resonates and spreads, Patti LaBelle’s sweet potato pies offer a wealth of inspiration. In 2015, a single YouTube video turned Patti LaBelle’s Sweet Potato Pies into a viral sensation. James Wright Chanel’s heartfelt and hilarious review catapulted the pies into fame, resulting in Walmart stores selling out nationwide.
This moment wasn’t just a happy accident—it was a masterclass in the power of video marketing. To date, his viral video has been viewed over 6.7 million times. (And don’t worry, this yearly video reminder is one of my favorite November traditions, and yes, you can still grab the pies just in time for Thanksgiving at Walmart.)
By combining authentic storytelling, strategic timing, and savvy promotion, you, too, can craft a video marketing strategy that has the potential to go viral. Let’s break down the steps:
Capitalize on Current Trends
Timing isn’t just about luck—it’s about knowing when your audience is ready for your message. Patti LaBelle’s pies soared to fame during the holiday season when desserts were already at the top of shoppers’ minds. James Wright Chanel’s video tapped into this festive spirit, creating an irresistible moment for viewers.
Video Strategy Tip:
Monitor trends and align your content with timely events or seasonal moments. If your brand is in beauty, create tutorials during prom or wedding seasons. If you’re in food, tie your videos to major holidays. Being part of the cultural conversation boosts your content’s relevance and shareability.
Create a Killer Title
Your video’s title is your first impression. A great title grabs attention and sparks curiosity. James Wright’s simple and engaging title, “Patti LaBelle Sweet Potato Pie Review,” made it clear what viewers could expect while invoking intrigue through his authentic delivery.
Video Strategy Tip:
Craft titles that are descriptive yet compelling. For example, instead of “Product Overview,” try “How This [Your Product] Solves [Specific Problem] Like Magic.” Remember, people scroll fast—your title needs to stop them in their tracks.
Embrace Authenticity
James Wright Chanel didn’t have a fancy setup or a polished script. What he had was authenticity—a raw, unfiltered love for Patti LaBelle and her pies. In today’s video marketing landscape, sincerity trumps production value. Viewers connect with real emotions, not flashy effects.
Video Strategy Tip:
Encourage customers, influencers, or employees to share genuine experiences with your product. Focus on relatable stories that evoke joy, nostalgia, or curiosity. Your audience is more likely to trust and share authentic content.
Market Like You Mean It
While viral sensations sometimes happen by chance, most successful videos are backed by intentional marketing efforts. James Wright Chanel’s video reached millions because it was widely shared across social platforms, tagged with calls to action, and amplified by media coverage.
Video Strategy Tip:
Don’t wait for your video to be discovered—promote it! Share it across your social media channels, include it in email campaigns, and ask your network to help spread the word. Collaborate with influencers or key industry figures to maximize your reach.
Focus on Quality, but Keep It Simple
While James’ video wasn’t highly produced, it was well-lit, engaging, and easy to follow. The true star was his sincerity in performance. As the video itself highlights, passion and authenticity often outweigh expensive production.
Video Strategy Tip:
Ensure your videos are clear and visually appealing, but don’t let production hurdles stop you. A smartphone and good lighting can create compelling content if the message is strong. Passionate, relatable storytelling wins every time.
Build on the Buzz
What happened after the video went viral is just as important as the initial success. Patti LaBelle and James Wright Chanel extended the momentum by appearing on national television and engaging their audiences across multiple platforms. Viral moments are fleeting, but thoughtful follow-up can turn them into long-term success.
Video Strategy Tip:
When a video performs well, follow up with new content to keep the conversation alive. Respond to comments, create behind-the-scenes clips, or expand on the story in a series. Keeping the buzz alive strengthens your connection with viewers and turns them into loyal fans.
Turning Sweet Moments into Sweet Results
Patti LaBelle’s pie story is a testament to the power of video marketing, which withstands the test of time. With a clear video strategy, you can create content that not only drives engagement but also turns casual viewers into devoted customers. Remember, success lies at the intersection of authenticity, timing, and promotion.
You don’t need a Grammy-winning singer to endorse your product or service. You need a relatable story, a strong promotional plan, and the courage to put yourself out there. Whether it’s pies, products, or services, your business can craft a slice of video marketing success. Who knows? Your next video might just be the one that breaks the internet.
Lights, Camera, Action! It’s time to tell your story in a way that inspires and converts! Check out Debbie’s take on making your videos stand out using high-value content on our YouTube channel.
