After a three-month standoff over fair compensation and AI usage in music creation, TikTok and Universal Music Group have forged a new licensing agreement, ensuring better pay for artists and protection against AI abuses.
TikTok and Universal Music Group (UMG) have resolved a dispute that previously resulted in the removal of UMG’s music from the platform, affecting tracks by notable artists such as Taylor Swift, Adele, Billie Eilish, and Ariana Grande. The contention revolved around issues of fair compensation and the use of artificial intelligence in music creation. Following a three-month standoff, a new licensing agreement has been established, which promises better remuneration for artists and songwriters, and includes safeguards against the use of AI in ways that could potentially diminish human creativity.
Both parties expressed a strong commitment to fostering a productive partnership. UMG’s CEO, Sir Lucian Grainge, emphasized the importance of valuing music and supporting the creative community. Similarly, TikTok’s CEO, Shou Chew, underlined the crucial role of music in the platform’s ecosystem and the commitment to promoting and advancing UMG’s artists and songwriters.
This deal marks a significant development in the relationship between the music industry and digital social platforms, with TikTok continuing to be a pivotal stage for both emerging and established artists. The reintegration of UMG’s extensive catalogue on TikTok is scheduled to occur within the next couple of weeks, reestablishing a vital element of the platform’s user experience.