Universal Music Group (UMG) has announced plans to remove its catalog from TikTok after failing to reach a licensing agreement with the video-sharing app. This means that users will no longer be able to use official snippets of UMG artists’ music in their videos, and previously published videos containing UMG music may go silent. Artists like Taylor Swift, Drake, Bad Bunny, Ariana Grande, and Billie Eilish are among those who may be affected.
UMG released a statement stating that the negotiations with TikTok fell apart due to disagreements over artist compensation, artificial intelligence protections, and platform safety. The statement also accuses TikTok of selectively removing the music of certain developing artists while keeping the music of global stars on the platform. It is unclear which smaller artists at UMG may have been affected before the deal expired.
TikTok responded to the announcement by calling UMG greedy and deceptive. They stated that UMG has chosen to walk away from a platform with over a billion users that serves as a free promotional and discovery vehicle for their talent. TikTok has become increasingly influential in the music industry, with artists and labels using the platform to try to break through its algorithm and reach a wider audience.
The removal of UMG’s catalog from TikTok could have a significant impact on the app and its users. Many creators rely on music clips to participate in viral trends and make their content more engaging. Without access to UMG artists’ music, creators will have to find alternative ways to enhance their videos. It remains to be seen whether TikTok and UMG will be able to reach a new agreement in the future, but for now, TikTok users may have to get used to quieter videos.
