Universal Music Group (UMG) artists are poised to make a comeback on TikTok after the resolution of a nearly three-month-long dispute between the two parties. A new deal has been reached, paving the way for renowned artists represented by UMG to return to the popular social media platform.
ABC News reported on Thursday that both UMG and TikTok have confirmed their commitment to swiftly reinstating music by UMG artists on TikTok, including top-tier names such as Taylor Swift, Drake, Adele, Bad Bunny, and Billie Eilish, among others.
The dispute between UMG and TikTok arose in January when UMG announced its refusal to accept the terms of a new contract with TikTok, signaling its intention to terminate overall licenses for artists represented by UMG and songwriters represented by Universal Music Publishing Group.
UMG raised concerns regarding fair compensation for artists and songwriters, the protection of human artists from the potentially harmful effects of AI, and online safety for TikTok users. However, TikTok maintained that it had reached agreements with each label and publisher, prioritizing the interests of artists.
The newly reached deal between UMG and TikTok is expected to significantly bolster UMG's global roster of artists, songwriters, and labels, enabling their music to once again be featured on the platform.
In a statement, TikTok CEO Shou Chiu expressed enthusiasm about the resolution, emphasizing the integral role of music in the TikTok ecosystem and the platform's commitment to moving forward with UMG.
Michael Nash, Chief Digital Officer and Executive Vice President of Universal Music Group, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of safeguarding UMG artists on TikTok while also capitalizing on commercial and marketing opportunities.
Despite the resolution of the dispute between TikTok and UMG, the future of the platform remains uncertain. Recent legislative actions, including President Joe Biden's signing of a law mandating TikTok parent company ByteDance to sell its US operations within a year or face potential shutdown, add to the platform's challenges and uncertainties.
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