TikTok Takes Down Universal Music Publishing Content Amid Licensing Deadlock

TikTok has initiated the removal of Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) content from its platform due to the absence of a new licensing agreement with the music label, the social media giant announced on Tuesday. In addition to this, TikTok has begun muting videos containing songs authored by UMPG-affiliated songwriters, following the expiration of the licensing deal with Universal Music Group (UMG) on January 31st.

Citing legal concerns, a knowledgeable source informed Reuters that the company is anticipated to eliminate all UMPG content by the end of February. However, TikTok remains open to negotiating a fresh deal with UMG, as per the source.

UMG, the parent company of UMPG, boasts a diverse lineup of artists including Taylor Swift, Jon Batiste, boygenius, and Ariana Grande, among others. Despite Reuters' attempt to reach out, UMG has yet to provide comment.

Previously, in February 2021, UMG had struck a deal with TikTok allowing users to incorporate clips from UMG's extensive catalog into their videos. Despite being the world's largest music company, UMG has stated that TikTok contributes only approximately 1% to its overall revenue.

TikTok disclosed that the UMG and UMPG catalog represents a significant portion, around 20% to 30%, of popular songs on its platform, with the exact percentage varying by region.