Independent artists could leave TikTok
Following the licensing disagreement with Universal Music Group, TikTok could potentially face even more problems as independent artists may soon remove their songs from the platform.
On February 1st, Universal Music Group wrote an open letter to TikTok stating they would remove their entire roster of artists’ catalogues from the platform. Upon leaving, they claimed: “TikTok attempted to bully us into accepting a deal worth less than the previous deal, far less than market value and not reflective of their exponential growth.”
TikTok publicly rebutted Universal’s claims, saying that they were pushing a “false narrative and rhetoric.” The issues with Universal have yet to be solved, and TikTok potentially has another serious problem.
On March 6th, Billboard reported that the National Music Publishers Association license currently in place with TikTok is due to expire on April 30th. It’s stated that the NMPA “[does] not anticipate that there will be an option to renew or extend the current NMPA licenses or participate in a new license with TikTok through NMPA.”
If the license is not renewed, independent artists can take their music away from the platform. The NMPA wrote, “NMPA members should make their own business determination whether to engage directly with TikTok to negotiate a license beyond April 30th, 2024.”
They continued, “It is important that all NMPA members understand that without a license in place, TikTok should not be using your musical works on its platform. Starting May 1st, 2024, any members who are not licensed with TikTok and would like to discuss enforcement options can contact attorneys at NMPA.”
This is a developing story.
Never Miss A Beat
The Far Out Music Newsletter
All the latest music news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.