UMG And TikTok Reach New Licensing Agreement

Universal Music Group and video-sharing platform TikTok have settled a royalty dispute and reached a new licensing agreement. This means all songs owned, distributed, and published by UMG will return to TikTok.

As part of the agreement, UMG and TikTok have stated that they will “deliver improved remuneration for UMG’s songwriters and artists, new promotional and engagement opportunities for their recordings and songs and industry-leading protections with respect to generative AI.”

“Music is an integral part of the TikTok ecosystem, and we are pleased to have found a path forward with Universal Music Group. We are committed to working together to drive value, discovery, and promotion for all of UMG’s amazing artists and songwriters and deepen their ability to grow, connect, and engage with the TikTok community.” Shou Chew, CEO of TikTok, disclosed

This new development comes months after songs by Universal Music Group(UMG) artists were removed from TikTok. The ban on Universal Music Group artists began in February, resulting in the removal of all music owned or distributed by UMG on TikTok and which had an effect in most of their artists’ careers.

Burna Boy hit singles like ‘City Boy,’ ‘Its Plenty,’ ‘Last Last,’ ‘Sittin On Top Of The World,’ and other songs were officially removed from the platform alongside other Nigerian artistes affected including Rema with his hit singles ‘Calm Down’ and ‘Charm’ and Tiwa Savage with ‘Somebody’s Son’, ‘Who Is Your Guy remix’.

TikTok has been the most influential video-sharing platform and promotion vehicle for music companies and artists over the past few years. The companies have decided to work together to ensure AI development across the music industry that will protect human artistry and the economics that flow to those artists and songwriters.

The music company, Universal Music Group, has an array of superstars under them, which includes Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, SZA, Ariana Grande, Drake, Justin Bieber, Post Malone, and others.