How Black Culture Shaped Google’s 2024 “Year In Search”

Google has officially released its “Year In Search” for 2024. This yearly recap reveals what has kept the world connected, entertained, and curious. Black culture and figures consistently dominate Google searches across all categories, and this year is no different. From Kamala Harris’s historic presidential run to Katt Williams’ world-rocking interview on “Club Shay Shay,” these search trends underscore the global resonance of Black culture and its role as a driver of enterprise, entertainment, and social consciousness.

Politics and Leadership: Kamala Harris and the Election

The 2024 election season was one of the most pivotal in recent history, making it no surprise that the “US Election” was the #1 trending search domestically and globally. Black voters, particularly women, are widely recognized as the “backbone” of the Democratic Party and played a key role in shaping national discourse this year via social media and other platforms. Vice President Kamala Harris, ranked as the second most-searched person, symbolizes the growing demand for representation at the highest levels of government.

Harris’s visibility as a Black and South Asian woman holding one of the world’s most powerful positions adds to the narrative of progress for Black women seeking to overcome systemic barriers in entrepreneurship and corporate America.

The election season was not without its controversies. Ranking #6 in the U.S. News category was Project 2025, an initiative spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank based in Washington, D.C. Aiming to reshape the federal government and regulatory powers, the policy sparked intense debates among minority communities, particularly the Black community. Advocates heralded Project 2025 as a means of restoring traditional American values and streamlining government, while critics raised concerns about potential rollbacks on civil rights, environmental protections, and equity-focused programs.

Harris’s high ranking in Google’s “Year In Search” reflects her ability to inspire conversations about equality, access, and opportunity—key concerns for Black Americans who view government policy as a driver of economic empowerment. Meanwhile, discourse surrounding Project 2025 catalyzed the Black community’s advocacy for policies that prioritize equitable access to capital, healthcare, and education.

The searches for Kamala Harris, the election, and Project 2025 reveal a nation deeply invested in its future—and the pivotal role Black voices play in shaping it.

Entertainment: Usher, Katt Williams, and the Queens of R&B

Usher: A Legacy Reinvented

From his Las Vegas residency to a dynamic Super Bowl performance, Usher’s dominance in the entertainment industry in 2024 was undeniable. As the year’s #1 ranked artist, his Super Bowl halftime show ranked as the sixth in the performance category, underscoring his ability to remain culturally relevant. Coupled with his 11:11 Tour, Usher’s achievements in 2024 showcased a masterclass in sustaining and reinventing a career as a musical talent.

Katt Williams: The King of Comedy Reigns Supreme

In 2024, Katt Williams solidified his status as a cultural icon, becoming the #1 ranked in the actor categoryglobally. Known for his unfiltered social commentary on race, class, and America’s systemic issues, Williams resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. His candid interview on Shannon Sharpe’s “Club Shay Shay” was a viral sensation, praised for its vulnerability and insights into his craft and journey. In a year dominated by conversations about representation and resilience, Williams’s enduring impact reminds us why he is—and always will be—the King of Comedy.

Sports Icons: Mike Tyson and Simone Biles Redefine Greatness

Mike Tyson: A Resurgence in Popularity

This year, Mike Tyson claimed the #1 spot in the athlete category. His highly publicized and controversial exhibition match with Jake Paul drew millions of viewers globally, bridging generations of boxing fans for a historic fight.

Outside the ring, Tyson continues to thrive with multiple business ventures, including his cannabis brand and his popular podcast, Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson. These ventures highlight Tyson as a multifaceted figure leveraging his platform to connect with fans beyond boxing. The resurgence of interest in Tyson’s career underscores his status as a force to be reckoned with—both in and out of the ring.

Simone

Biles: The GOAT of Resilience and Triumph

At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Simone Biles once again proved why she is considered the greatest gymnast of all time. Returning to the global stage after a two-year hiatus, Biles earned an unprecedented five gold medals, including in the all-around and floor exercise events. Her comeback was particularly significant, as it followed her well-documented decision to prioritize her mental health during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, sparking a global conversation on well-being in high-performance environments.

Biles’s 2024 Olympic success serves as a testament to balancing self-care and excellence. As the #3 athlete of the year, her story continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

Internet Trends: The Black Creator Behind a Viral Moment

Kai Cenat’s “Give Me My Money”

Kai Cenat, one of the most influential streamers of the digital era, created a cultural phenomenon in 2024 with the viral phrase “Give Me My Money.” Originating during one of his high-energy Twitch streams, the catchphrase quickly transcended the internet, becoming a rallying cry for fair pay, reparations, and financial justice, especially within Black communities.

Cenat’s authentic humor and relatability made the trend impossible to ignore, with social media users, celebrities, and even brands joining in to connect with younger audiences. The catchphrase not only highlights the creative power of Black creators but also underscores their ability to spark larger conversations about societal issues—whether intentionally or not.

Legacy and Loss: Honoring Icons Who Passed

O.J. Simpson: A Complex Legacy

The passing of O.J. Simpson in 2024 marked the end of a life as celebrated as it was controversial. While his football career set unparalleled records, his later legal troubles and infamous “Trial of the Century” overshadowed his athletic achievements. His death reignited discussions about race relations, celebrity culture, and justice in America, ensuring that his legacy remains one of both admiration and debate.

James Earl Jones: A Voice That Defined Generations

The death of James Earl Jones marked the end of an era. Known for his iconic roles as Mufasa, Darth Vader, and King Jaffe Joffer, Jones’s deep, commanding voice became a cultural touchstone. With a career spanning decades, his contributions to film, theater, and voice acting remain an enduring legacy of representation and excellence.

Rich Homie Quan: A Reflection of Hip-Hop’s Influence

The hip-hop community mourned the untimely death of Rich Homie Quan in 2024. Known for his melodic flow and hits like “Type of Way,” Quan defined Southern hip-hop during the 2010s. His music brought joy to fans across the globe, and his legacy continues to resonate as a symbol of hip-hop’s cultural impact.

Black Enterprise in Action: The Economic Impact of These Trends

Behind each of these trends is a thriving ecosystem of Black entrepreneurs, influencers, and creatives leveraging cultural moments for economic growth. Black enterprise isn’t just participating in these trends—it’s shaping them, proving that culture and commerce are inseparable.

To explore more about the year’s most searched topics and the cultural moments that shaped 2024, visit Google’s Year in Search recap.

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