Universal artists to return to TikTok

Universal Music Group has ended its boycott of social media platform TikTok after the two groups struck a new licensing deal.

The music giant told TikTok to stop using its music at the end of January, on concerns that the Chinese business was not paying fair value for songs used on the platform.

However, on Thursday Universal confirmed that the two companies had now struck a "multi-dimensional" licensing agreement which would see its artists return to the platform.

Universal said the deal would deliver improved remuneration for its songwriters and artists, as well as promotional and engagement opportunities for their recordings and songs.

It is also intended to give musicians "industry-leading" protections from generative artificial intelligence.

Lucian Grainge, chief executive of Universal, said: "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."

Shou Chew, chief executive of TikTok, said: "Music is an integral part of the TikTok ecosystem and we are pleased to have found a path forward with Universal.

"We are committed to working together to drive value, discovery and promotion for all of Universal’s amazing artists and songwriters."