Universal Music Group's (UMG) new licensing agreement with TikTok will see music from the music corporation's artists, songwriters, and labels return to the social media platform.
Announced on 1 May (PST), the "multi-dimensional" agreement is described as one that ushers in a "new era of strategic collaboration" between UMG and TikTok.
The move comes after music belonging to UMG was removed from TikTok following a dispute between the two organisations.
As part of the new agreement, UMG and TikTok will work together to improve remuneration for UMG's roster of songwriters and artists and provide them with new opportunities for promotions and engagements.
They will also collaborate to protect artists and songwriters from threats posed by generative AI via the removal of unauthorised AI-generated content from TikTok and improved crediting of music creators.
Aside from allowing TikTok users to use UMG-owned music in their videos again, the agreement will see UMG and TikTok leverage the latter's e-commerce features for monetisation opportunities and support artists through campaigns. In addition, it will see the introduction of more tools, similar to "Add to Music App", that will help artists strengthen their TikTok presence.
"This new chapter in our relationship with TikTok focuses on the value of music, the primacy of human artistry and the welfare of the creative community. We look forward to collaborating with the team at TikTok to further the interests of our artists and songwriters and drive innovation in fan engagement while advancing social music monetization," said Universal Music Group's Chairman and CEO, Sir Lucian Grainge.
TikTok CEO Shou Chew said: "Music is an integral part of the TikTok ecosystem and we are pleased to have found 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 deepen their ability to grow, connect and engage with the TikTok community."