If you have been actively using TikTok this week, you might have come across videos with muted audio. This can be quite frustrating, especially if you were keen on enjoying the audio content. The reason behind this issue is a recent disagreement between two of the biggest companies in the entertainment industry – TikTok and Universal Music Group. The two companies seem to have failed to reach a mutual agreement. Leading to an interruption in the audio playback of some TikTok videos.
TikTok has made a shocking announcement that it will be removing music from Universal Music Group (UMG) artists. Including popular names like Nicki Minaj, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo and BTS. This has left the internet in a state of confusion and concern. Many users of the platform are worried about what will happen to their already-uploaded videos that feature music from these artists. It is worth noting that almost half of TikTok’s content contains music, and 75% of its users report discovering new artists through the platform. To make matters worse, they were muting videos containing Universal Music, further adding to the frustration of TikTok users.
What Really Happened?
UMG accused TikTok of not paying its artists fairly and allowing AI-generated recordings on the platform. They also claimed that TikTok was developing tools to promote and encourage AI music creation. You can read the full letter here.
As UMG points out, TikTok’s colossal success “has been built in large part on the music created” by artists and songwriters. In turn, emerging artists have used the platform to launch their careers.
The letter discussing the contract renewal talks with TikTok highlights three crucial issues that have been pressing the company. Firstly, there is a need for protection against AI-generated recordings, secondly, there are online safety concerns for users, and thirdly, higher compensation for its artists and songwriters.
TikTok not fairly paying artists
The letter goes on to explain that TikTok has proposed paying their artists and songwriters at a rate that is significantly lower than what similarly situated major social platforms pay. This compensation rate is so low that despite TikTok’s massive and growing user base, rapidly rising advertising revenue, and increasing reliance on music-based content, it accounts for only about 1% of total revenue.
The letter further notes that TikTok is attempting to build a music-based business without paying fair value for the music. This issue of artist and songwriter compensation is of utmost importance. It also needs to be addressed appropriately for the benefit of all parties involved.
Let’s Hear What TikTok Had to Say.
There has been a recent development in the world of music. In a statement on social media. TikTok accuses Universal Music Group (UMG) of prioritizing their greed over the interests of their artists and songwriters. In a statement, TikTok accused UMG of promoting “false narratives and rhetoric”.
This is a significant development in the music industry. Happening just as people were focusing on the feud between Nicki Minaj and Meghan. It’s intriguing to see how these large corporations are fighting against each other. I would love to hear your thoughts on this TikTok saga – what do you think about it all? Also, if your favourite artist has had their music removed, please mention them in the comments below.
Related Articles; Follow Us, Instagram – Whatsapp
