Universal Music Group Says They Will Be Removing Their Artists’ Music From TikTok
The music label giant, Universal Music Group (UMG), has announced they are removing their artists’ music from TikTok. The statement comes after UMG and TikTok failed to reach an agreement on a new licensing deal.
Among many, popular artists such as Drake, SZA, The Weeknd, and more will be removed from the social media app. The artists whose music belongs to UMG are some of the most sought-after musicians in the industry. This means many users will be unable to post content featuring their favourite artists’ music.
UMG’s Statement on X
Our core mission is simple: to help our artists & songwriters attain their greatest creative and commercial potential, which is why we must call time out on TikTok.
— Universal Music Group (@UMG) January 31, 2024
Learn More: https://t.co/yJDQ7FdgNc pic.twitter.com/Lhluz1ez5H
Furthermore, UMG released a statement on X (formerly known as twitter), further explaining their reasoning for the decision. In “An Open Letter to the Artist and Songwriter Community” Universal explained how “Ultimately TikTok is trying to build a music-based business, without paying fair value for the music.” Additionally, they stated that TikTok has not assisted them in the ongoing AI issue within the industry.
Moreover, the music label claims TikTok tried to “bully” them into accepting a deal far less valuable than their previous one. UMG also believes TikTok would remove music from their developing artists and only keep “audience-driving global stars” music available to try and intimidate UMG. In a final statement from Universal, they specified that “TikTok is trying to build a music-based business, without paying fair value for the music.”
TikTok, the app with 1 billion users, fired back with a short statement on X. The social media platform stated that UMG is “putting their own greed above the interest of their artists and songwriters.” They continued by saying Universal is walking away from a powerful support system, serving as a free promotional and discovery vehicle for their talent.
TikTok’s Statement On X
— TikTokComms (@TikTokComms) January 31, 2024
As a result of the disagreement, fans can expect the removal of UMG-licensed music to begin as soon as Wednesday, January 31st. However, if the two media giants can come to terms on a new deal, Universal’s music will remain on the app.
For a full list of which artists’ music will be removed from TikTok, you can view UMG’s list here.
Stay tuned to OOB for more music-related news.
