Universal’s contract with TikTok has ended, prompting Universal Music Group to share an open letter expressing concerns about inadequate compensation for artists and the lack of safeguards against artificial intelligence (AI) on the platform. Universal accused TikTok of prioritizing its financial interests over the well-being of its artists and songwriters. In response, TikTok released a statement, countering Universal’s claims by asserting that the label prioritized greed over the interests of their creative contributors. TikTok claimed to have successfully negotiated agreements with all other record labels and publishers.
As a consequence of the contract expiration, users are now unable to access certain music on the app. UMG, an industry giant encompassing Capitol Records, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Def Jam Recordings, Motown, Dreamville, and several other labels, confirmed that the removal affects a substantial portion of their artist roster.
This clash between Universal and TikTok raises questions about fair compensation for artists in the digital age and the broader implications of AI on creative content protection.
A handful of artists that have been affected by sound removal on TikTok include Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, Reve, Drake, and The Weeknd.
You can read UMG’s statement here: https://www.universalmusic.com/an-open-letter-to-the-artist-and-songwriter-community-why-we-must-call-time-out-on-tiktok/
