Universal Music Group and TikTok announced a renewed licensing agreement that includes expanded protections against unauthorized AI-generated music and stronger attribution systems for artists and songwriters.
Under the updated agreement, the two companies said they will work together to remove unlicensed AI-generated songs from TikTok while improving how creators and rights holders are credited across the platform.
The deal marks a significant shift following tensions between the companies in 2024, when UMG temporarily pulled its music catalog from TikTok amid disputes over copyright enforcement, AI-generated content, and artist compensation.
The renewed partnership reflects growing pressure across the music industry to establish clearer rules around generative AI. Record labels and artists have become increasingly concerned about AI systems that can imitate performers’ voices or generate counterfeit tracks designed to exploit recommendation algorithms and streaming platforms.
Several viral AI-generated songs imitating major artists previously gained millions of views and streams before being removed, intensifying calls for stronger moderation and licensing standards across social platforms and AI companies.
UMG said the agreement reinforces protections designed to “promote human artistry” while ensuring economic value continues flowing to artists and songwriters. TikTok, meanwhile, has been expanding tools aimed at strengthening relationships with the music industry, including analytics and promotional products for artists and labels.
The renewed partnership comes as AI-generated music rapidly moves into mainstream platforms and products. Recently, Spotify and UMG also unveiled plans for licensed AI remix and cover-generation tools that allow fans to create AI-powered music content while sharing revenue with participating artists and rights holders.
