Universal Music returns to TikTok after licensing deal

Universal Music Group (UMG) and TikTok have reached a new agreement, bringing UMG artists and music back to the platform after a temporary break.

Previously, UMG content was removed due to disagreements over artist compensation, AI usage, and user safety.

TikTok is crucial for music discovery, especially among young audiences in the US.UMG argued artists receive significantly less compensation from TikTok compared to other platforms.
AI-generated music using TikTok's tools was a major sticking point in negotiations. UMG opposed including AI works in royalty payments, fearing it would diminish payouts to human creators.
The music industry is concerned about the potential negative impact of AI on artist compensation.
This deal comes amidst uncertainty over TikTok's future in the US due to potential government restrictions.
Despite the agreement, the long-term outlook for TikTok in the US remains unclear.