Universal Music Group has reached a licensing agreement with TikTok that will return its artists to the platform after a months-long standoff. The deal secures “improved remuneration” for UMG artists, as well as new commercial opportunities and protections against generative AI, according to a joint press release from the companies.
The bitter dispute came to light in January, when UMG published an open letter accusing TikTok of “indifference” and “intimidation” in contract renewal negotiations. The following month, UMG extended the holdout to its publishing arm, affecting the likes of Taylor Swift, Adele, SZA, and the Weekend—though Swift’s music returned to the platform last month for undisclosed reasons. The companies are now “working expeditiously to return music” from UMG and its publishing arm to the platform; the music will return (and affected videos unmuted) in the next one to two weeks, according to a source close to the situation.
Lucian Grainge, chairman and CEO of UMG, said in the press release, “This new chapter in our relationship with TikTok focuses on the value of music, the primacy of human artistry and the welfare of the creative community. We look forward to collaborating with the team at TikTok to further the interests of our artists and songwriters and drive innovation in fan engagement while advancing social music monetization.”
TikTok CEO Shou Chew said, “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.”