TikTok Loses Access to Universal Music's Library Amid Licensing Dispute

The standoff over compensation and AI use has led to the removal of popular songs, affecting creators and users alike.

Universal Music Group (UMG) has ceased allowing its music on TikTok following the expiration of their licensing deal, affecting a vast roster of popular songs.
TikTok users are already experiencing the removal of UMG-licensed music, impacting both new uploads and past videos featuring artists like Taylor Swift and Drake.
The standoff between TikTok and UMG stems from disagreements over compensation, the use of AI music, and concerns over online safety.
More than one-third of the songs on Billboard's TikTok Top 50 chart are no longer available on the app, including tracks by Ariana Grande and Lana Del Rey.
The dispute could escalate as TikTok may need to remove more songs by the end of the month if no agreement is reached with Universal Music Publishing Group.