If you’re wondering why a lot of videos on your TikTok FYP have been silent, you’re not alone.
On Jan. 30, Universal Music Group (UMG) released an open letter accusing TikTok of “offering unsatisfactory payment for music, and of allowing its platform to be ‘flooded with A.I.-generated recordings’ that diluted the royalty pool for real, human musicians” according to the New York Times. As a result of UMG’s accusations, the music corporation has pulled it’s music from TikTok. So, if you’re planning on making a TikTok anytime soon to a Taylor Swift, SZA, or Drake song, you’re going to have to find a new artist.
UMG is sort of the “It Girl” when it comes to music corporations. Artists signed with UMG include Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, Drake, Billie Eilish, and many more. I don’t know about you, but my FYP has been pretty silent ever since this happened, and I’m not the only person who feels this way.
On Feb. 1, TikTok confirmed that they had removed all music from Universal, resulting in lots of videos having the sounds muted. All it takes is one look at Taylor Swift’s TikTok account to see that all of her music is gone. If you need me, I’ll be in the corner crying.
TikTok responded to Universal on Jan 30., calling the end of its partnership with UMG “sad and disappointing.” The social media platform added, “Universal Music Group has put their own greed above the interests of their artists and songwriters. “Despite Universal’s false narrative and rhetoric, the fact is they have chosen to walk away from the powerful support of a platform with well over a billion users that serves as a free promotional and discovery vehicle for their talent.” Yikes!
TikTok also explained that this disagreement is unique to Universal. “TikTok has been able to reach ‘artist-first’ agreements with every other label and publisher. Clearly, Universal’s self-serving actions are not in the best interests of artists, songwriters, and fans.” The girls are fighting!
So, what does this mean for the future of TikTok? TBH, I’m not really sure what will happen, but it looks like I’m gonna have to start expanding my music taste. Users on TikTok were quick to share their thoughts about this news, and it looks like the feelings are pretty mutual.
Alexa, play “Bigger Than The Whole Sky” by Taylor Swift.
Case and point.
This is what my account looks like now.
Now this. This is a true tragedy.
What am I supposed to do the next time I want to make a TikTok to “Happiness Is A Butterfly”?
I’m a Gleek forever and always. I guess this means I’ll have to be a Gleek on TikTok a whole lot now.
Pretty much!
And RIP to those who watch the edits (me).
Maybe this just means it’s time for me to start singing on TikTok. But I don’t think that would do me many favors.