Starting today, January 31, 2024, content creators and Stonebwoy fans may face limitations as they will no longer be able to use any songs under the Universal Music Group (UMG) label on TikTok.
This move comes as a result of the failure to reach a new deal between the two companies regarding the compensation TikTok should pay UMG for using its music.
UMG has decided to pull its entire song catalog from TikTok, citing three critical issues as the primary reasons:
Appropriate compensation for their artists and songwriters.
Protecting human artists from the harmful effects of AI.
Ensuring online safety for TikTok’s users.
DTS Africa reports that UMG alleges TikTok is not paying fair value for its music and is attempting to build a music-based business without adequately compensating artists and songwriters.
UMG accuses TikTok of attempting to bully and intimidate them into accepting an unfavorable deal, and of not respecting their copyright. UMG claims that TikTok contributes only about 1% to its total revenue, highlighting the minimal payment TikTok makes for its music.
TikTok, on the other hand, denies UMG’s allegations, expressing disappointment that UMG prioritizes its own financial gain over the interests of its artists and songwriters.
TikTok argues that it has artist-first agreements with every other label and publisher, and contends that UMG’s actions are not in the best interests of artists, songwriters, and fans. TikTok asserts that it serves as a free promotional and discovery platform for UMG’s talent, with a billion users supporting and enjoying music on the platform.
In summary, content creators will now have fewer music options for their videos due to UMG’s decision. They may miss out on viral trends and challenges based on UMG’s songs, potentially losing or seeing their favorite videos muted or deleted from TikTok.