TikTok and Universal Music Group end rivalry with new agreement

Universal Music Group has signed a “multi-dimensional” deal with TikTok that will see its list of artists – which includes Taylor Swift, Drake and Olivia Rodrigo – return to the social media platform’s more than one billion users. UMG began removing its music from TikTok on February 1 after its old contract expired.

Notably, the deal will address concerns that UMG and its artists have with generative AI. “TikTok and UMG will work together to ensure that the development of AI across the music industry protects human art and the economy that flows to these artists and songwriters,” reads a statement. press release announcing the agreement. “TikTok is also committed to working with UMG to remove unauthorized AI-generated music from the platform, as well as tools to improve artist and songwriter attribution.”

“We are delighted to welcome UMG and UMPG back to TikTok,” said Ole Obermann, global head of music business development at TikTok. “In particular, we will work together to ensure that AI tools are developed responsibly to enable a new era of musical creativity and fan engagement, while protecting human creativity.”

The deal also includes “new monetization opportunities” arising from TikTok’s growing e-commerce capabilities. TikTok is also committed to continuing to build tools to help artists better leverage the platform in areas such as analytics and integrated ticketing.

The companies say they are “working quickly” to return artists to the platform.