Users on TikTok can once again create music videos using tracks from UMG’s catalog, a list that includes some of the biggest names in music today: Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande. That’s because, after months of fighting, the social media platform and Universal Music Group (UMG) have finally called a truce with a new content licensing deal. The companies did not disclose financial terms of the deal.
The move comes at a critical time for the company. TikTok faces even more ban threats in key markets, including the US. So getting this win with UMG is important not only to boost its content, but also to boost its profile with consumers that TikTok is counting on rallying for. While the company has decided to fight the threat of a US ban in court, it could use positive news like this.
The catalog will be available for video creation in a week or two. This also means that existing videos using UMG music, which were muted, will be removed when the catalog is available.
“Fans on TikTok can look forward to the return of UMG’s recorded music and release catalogs and once again enjoy creating videos using music from some of the world’s biggest artists and songwriters as well as exciting emerging talent,” it said. TikTok in a post.
The deal comes after a selection of Taylor Swift’s music returned to TikTok last month — mostly because she owns the masters of some of her albums.
TikTok CEO Shou Chew said the company was happy to “find a way forward” with UMG after its dispute.
“Music is an integral part of the TikTok ecosystem and we are pleased to find a path forward with Universal Music Group. We are committed to working together to drive value, discovery and promotion for all of UMG’s amazing artists and songwriters, and to deepen their ability to grow, connect and interact with the TikTok community,” he said.
Earlier this year, UMG pulled its catalog from the short video platform after it refused to renew its deal with TikTok. Separately, UMG signed a new deal with Spotify for music videos.
