Music artists and writers from Universal label are leaving TikTok due to ongoing disputes. Initially, artists were removed, and now writers are also being taken off the platform.
At first artists signed to the label were removed, but now music writers are being taken off the TikTok.
The application has already implemented measures to mute tracks by artists under contract with the label. Now, it faces the additional challenge of muting songs by writers associated with the label. Consequently, videos featuring music from artists like Harry Styles and Adele, who have collaborated with Universal-signed writers, may soon be subject to muting.
TikTok anticipates that it could lose up to 30% of what it deems “popular songs,” while industry estimates suggest that as much as 80% of TikTok’s music content could be affected. This issue stems from the concept of “split copyrights,” where even minimal contributions from Universal Music’s publishing division-signed songwriters could necessitate the removal of entire recordings. This includes tracks by artists from other labels, including Sony, Warner, and numerous independent labels.
Earlier this year, Universal’s music license with TikTok expired due to failure to agree on compensation terms. Consequently, the label’s recording catalog of approximately three million songs was removed in early February. Now, with the publishing catalog deal set to expire at the end of the week, an additional four million songs are expected to be removed from the platform.
Universal has accused TikTok of engaging in “bullying tactics” by proposing to compensate them at a significantly lower rate compared to other platforms for their music.
UMG contends that only 1% of their overall revenue originates from TikTok, despite the platform boasting over one billion users and being owned by the Chinese company ByteDance.
TikTok responded by stating that Universal was promoting a “misleading narrative and using rhetoric.”
TikTok’s allure significantly hinges on music, with content creators frequently incorporating songs into their videos. Moreover, the platform serves as a launchpad for artists seeking to amplify their visibility and showcase their music, evidenced by the existence of the TikTok Billboard Top 50 chart in the United States, determined by user interaction.
Songs have been instrumental in creating viral moments, such as dance trends or challenges, while popular musicians have utilized platforms like TikTok to connect more closely with fans. Additionally, emerging artists have achieved mainstream success thanks to the platform.
Mae Stephens, a 20-year-old from Kettering, left her job at a supermarket and secured a record deal after her song “If We Ever Broke Up” went viral on TikTok.
Reflecting on her sudden success, she expressed to the BBC, “It’s still sinking in, to be honest. I’m amazed by everything that’s happened.”
The debate surrounding royalties has sparked concerns that artists who built a following on TikTok before signing with major labels may lose out on capitalizing on their fanbase.
Cody Fry, an artist signed to a UMG-owned record label, shared his feelings in a TikTok video, likening himself to “a person caught between two colliding planets” amidst reports of licensing agreements expiring just as one of his tracks gained traction in China.
He emphasized to the BBC the importance for TikTok to “place higher value on music” and expressed his wish for both parties to resolve their differences without negatively impacting artists.
In contrast, pop star Kim Petras, whose music has been restricted on the platform, voiced support for Universal’s stance.
“I feel very supported by Universal,” she told the BBC. “I know artists with number one records struggling to pay rent, so I appreciate Universal taking a stand. While Universal artists may face challenges right now, it’s a sacrifice worth making. The intentions behind it are honorable.”
Many of us have come to rely on TikTok for discovering new tunes and sharing our favorite tracks, so this news is definitely a bummer. While we don’t have all the details about what’s going on behind the scenes, it’s clear that this dispute could have a big impact on the music we love to listen to on TikTok. Let’s hope that a resolution can be reached soon so we can get back to creating and enjoying awesome music content on the platform. Keep an eye on this space for updates as the situation unfolds!
Read More: Beyoncé loved country music as a baby, dad reveals
Disclaimer:
This content is AI-generated using IFTTT AI Content Creator. While we strive for accuracy, it’s a tool for rapid updates. We’re committed to filtering information, not reproducing or endorsing misinformation. – Jomotoday for more information visit privacy policy
Leave a Comment