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TikTok and Universal Music Group Resolve Royalties Row

TikTok logo on phone screen

TikTok has resolved a royalties dispute with Universal Music Group, restoring millions of songs on the platform.

It includes hits from popular artists like Adele, Billie Eilish, and Ariana Grande. 

The agreement follows a period during which Universal had pulled its catalog from the social media platform.

This was during negotiations that stumbled over payment terms and the use of artificial intelligence technology in music.

The row centered around the renewal of contracts.

Universal pressed TikTok on fair compensation for artists and raised concerns over AI's role in replicating artists' work. 

In January, Universal criticized the social media giant for not adequately valuing artists' music.

Fears over AI undercutting musicians

It also raised concerns about AI potentially undercutting songwriters' earnings by training models on their works without proper compensation.

However, a joint statement from TikTok and Universal announced the two parties have reached a new "multi-dimensional" licensing deal.

The new agreement promises to enhance payments to artists and songwriters.

It also offers leading-edge protections against the misuse of AI technologies.

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Sir Lucian Grainge, Universal Music Group CEO, said: “This new chapter in our relationship with TikTok focuses on the value of music, the primacy of human artistry and the welfare of the creative community.

“We look forward to collaborating with the team at TikTok to further the interests of our artists and songwriters and drive innovation in fan engagement while advancing social music monetisation.”

Shou Chew, TikTok CEO, added: “Music is an integral part of the TikTok ecosystem and we are pleased to have found a path forward with Universal Music Group.

“We are committed to working together to drive value, discovery and promotion for all of UMG’s amazing artists and songwriters, and deepen their ability to grow, connect and engage with the TikTok community.”

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