Taylor Swift's music returns to TikTok as UMG signs new deal

Universal Music Group (UMG), one of the world’s biggest music-based entertainment companies, has signed a new “multi-dimensional” agreement with TikTok, marking the return of music from artists like Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Selena Gomez, Badshah, Shawn Mendes, Olivia Rodrigo, and Drake to the app. The new deal also marks the end of the dispute between UMG and TikTok, following which the music label began pulling its music from TikTok back in February.

One of the highlights of the new deal between TikTok and UMG is using artificial intelligence (AI) for music on the app. According to the statement, UMG and TikTok will work together to make sure AI development in the music industry does not sabotage the original music art and will protect “the economics that flow to those artists and songwriters.” Both companies will also come together to crack down on unauthorised AI-generated music from the platform and introduce tools to help give artists due accreditation. The deal also underlines “improved remuneration” for UMG’s songwriters and artists.

“We are delighted to welcome UMG and UMPG back to TikTok. We look forward to working together to forge a path that creates deeper connections between artists, creators, and fans,” said Ole Obermann, Tiktok’s global head of music business development. “In particular, we will work together to make sure that AI tools are developed responsibly to enable a new era of musical creativity and fan engagement while protecting human creativity.”

Michael Nash, Chief Digital Officer and EVP of Universal Music Group, said, “Developing transformational partnerships with important innovators is critical to UMG’s commitment to promoting an environment in which artists and songwriters prosper. We’re gratified to renew our relationship with TikTok predicated on significant advancements in commercial and marketing opportunities as well as protections provided to our industry-leading roster on their platform. With the constantly evolving ways that social interaction, fan engagement, music discovery and artistic ingenuity converge on TikTok, we see great potential in our collaboration going forward.”