Universal Music Publishing

TikTok is currently in the process of carrying out Universal Music Group's requirement to remove all songs that have been written (or co-written) by a songwriter signed to Universal Music Publishing Group, based on information they have provided.

Official TikTok Statement: https://newsroom.tiktok.com/en-us/umpg-update-february-28-2024

Official Universal Statement: https://www.universalmusic.com/an-open-letter-to-the-artist-and-songwriter-community-why-we-must-call-time-out-on-tiktok/

FAQ for Artists Impacted by the TikTok and Universal Music Group Dispute

1. Why are songs disappearing from TikTok?

TikTok and UMPG were unable to settle on a renewal agreement, resulting in the expiration of their licensing deal. This has led to the removal of UMPG-affiliated songs from the platform.

2. Which artists are affected by this dispute?

Artist’s whose music is affiliated with UMPG, which means all songs that have been written (or co-written) by a songwriter signed to Universal Music Publishing Group and all affiliated groups.

3. What is the timeline for these removals?

The agreement between UMPG and TikTok officially expired on January 31, 2024, impacting the availability of UMG's distributed recordings catalog on TikTok. The grace period for UMPG-represented compositions ends on March 1, 2024, after which all UMPG-licensed music will be removed from TikTok.