Taylor Swift is back on TikTok as Universal and social media app resolve licensing dispute

Universal Music Group (UMG), the label behind major artists like Taylor Swift, has reached a new licensing agreement with TikTok, ending a contentious dispute over content licensing that had led to the removal of UMG artist tracks from the platform earlier this year.

Reinstating top artists' music on TikTok

As part of the new agreement, music from UMG artists, including tracks from Taylor Swift's latest album "The Tortured Poets Department," has been reinstated on TikTok.

This development, confirmed by CNBC, marks a significant turnaround from earlier in the year when TikTok removed UMG's music due to unsuccessful contract negotiations.

What was the dispute?

The conflict began when negotiations stalled over how much TikTok would compensate UMG's artists and songwriters.

UMG had accused TikTok, which is owned by the Chinese internet conglomerate ByteDance, of offering compensation that was significantly lower than what other major social platforms provided.

Furthermore, UMG criticized TikTok for allowing unauthorized AI-generated songs that infringed on artists’ intellectual property, claiming the platform was "flooded with AI-generated recordings."

What does the new licensing deal say?

The new deal between TikTok and UMG not only resolves the issues over song availability but also introduces measures to better compensate and protect artists and songwriters.

Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of UMG, emphasized that the agreement focuses on recognizing the value of music, prioritizing human artistry, and supporting the welfare of the creative community.

Innovations in artist compensation and AI regulation

UMG and TikTok have committed to working together to drive innovation in fan engagement and advance social music monetization. This includes improving remuneration for songwriters and artists, offering promotional opportunities, and implementing industry-leading protections against generative AI abuses.

TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, affirmed the platform's dedication to promoting and adding value to UMG's artists and songwriters.

Ensuring protection against AI-generated music

An essential component of the agreement is the joint effort by TikTok and UMG to protect artists against unauthorized AI-generated music.

The partners plan to remove such content from TikTok and implement tools to enhance attribution for artists and songwriters, safeguarding their intellectual and creative rights.