Musicians and users concerned as Universal music taken off TikTok

Contractual dispute between Universal Music Group and social media giant results in removal of thousands of songs, and loss of marketing clout for musicians

TikTok has had music from the world’s biggest music company, Universal Music Group (UMG), removed from its platform after the two parties failed to agree on new contractual terms.

It means that users’ videos can no longer be soundtracked by music from hundreds of artists ranging from megastars such as Taylor Swift, Abba and Harry Styles to emerging musicians, with fans quickly expressing dismay on social media. UMG artists who use TikTok to promote their work and interact with fans can no longer post their own music.